A Kubrick and Cronenberg Kaleidoscope in The Substance

Without question, the 2024 cinematic masterwork The Substance will go down in history as a watershed moment in contemporary filmmaking. The picture reflects the creativity of David Cronenberg and Stanley Kubrick, and it is directed by Coralie Fargeat with great finesse and attention to detail. Kubrick’s touch is apparent in the film’s careful design and deep narrative depth, while Cronenberg’s impact is apparent in the film’s disturbing and grotesque, gut-wrenching examination of the human condition.

A revolutionary new cosmetic product that claims to provide everlasting beauty and youth is at the heart of the film’s premise. But as their fixation with this supernatural substance grows, the individuals learn the sinister secrets of its making and the horrible, horrific results of their obsession.

A potent critique of the ubiquitous societal constraints of the contemporary era is found in the screenplay of The Substance. Modern issues, such as the never-ending quest for beauty, significance, and acceptance, are explored in the story. The movie does a fantastic job of showing how the need for acceptance can propel us to both success and failure. Viewers are encouraged to contemplate their journeys and the extent to which they stoop to gain approval from those around them. The screenplay raises important and thought-provoking questions about these topics, illuminating the hidden impact of society’s expectations on individuals.

Demi Moore gives a performance of unmatched depth and intensity in a part that defines her career. Her depiction of a modern woman struggling to meet society’s stifling expectations is compelling and disturbing. With unfiltered honesty, Moore portrays the fragility and resilience of a human confronted with tremendous adversity. An emotional reminder of her immense skill and range as an actress, her portrayal is moving.

A film in and of itself, The Substance is a potent critique of the ubiquitous societal demands of the contemporary era. Modern issues, such as the never-ending quest for beauty, significance, and acceptance, are explored in the story. The film sheds light on the often-unseen toll that societal expectations can take on individuals, and its investigation of these topics is both thought-provoking and contemporary. The picture deftly captures the universal yearning for acceptance, a motivating factor that can bring about both happiness and sorrow. The film makes its audience think about how far they have gone to fit in with their friends, peers, and the world at large.

At a time when being seen on social media is often more important than being relevant, The Substance offers a deep dive into the meaning of significance. Watching the film’s protagonists deal with a world that constantly doubts their worth makes one wonder about the authenticity of their dreams. The film’s razor-sharp and introspective critique of beauty standards exposes the pervasive and destructive impact of contemporary culture’s superficial standards on individuals’ sense of self-worth and identity. The Substance highlights the pursuit of physical perfection, which opens a broader discussion on what it means to be beautiful and valuable.

By fusing the surreal techniques of Kubrick and Cronenberg with an engaging and timely story, The Substance is an achievement of contemporary cinema. This film is a must-watch due to Demi Moore’s outstanding performance and its moving examination of societal forces. 

As a reminder of the transformative, inspiring, and challenging power of cinema, it is an experience that will have viewers thinking long after the final shot.

Winner of a Golden Globe and nominated for 5 Academy Awards, The Substance is now available for streaming on Mubi.

-Dirk Lombard Fourie