Movie fans are you ready for something totally different? There's a movie called "The Substance" starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley that is seriously getting people talking. It's body horror it's satirical it's intense and it has somehow landed itself in the middle of the Oscar conversation. If you are even a little bit curious you have to hear about this one.
What is 'The Substance' Anyway? A Glimpse into the Shocking Plot of Demi Moore's Acclaimed Film
Okay so "The Substance" is not your average Hollywood flick. Directed by French filmmaker Coralie Fargeat it dives deep into some pretty dark themes. Think insecurity beauty standards and the crazy pressure women face in the entertainment industry especially as they get older. The movie is definitely genre-bending mixing satire with full-on body horror . It is not for the faint of heart we will tell you that much.
Demi Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle a movie star feeling the industry turning its back on her because of her age. When she gets offered this mysterious "Substance" that promises a younger better version of herself she takes the plunge. Enter Margaret Qualley as Sue a younger replica of Elisabeth. At first it seems like a bizarre but beneficial situation. Elisabeth and Sue are supposed to share life one week at a time. But things quickly go south in a very very gruesome way. Let's just say body horror fans will be in their element.
Body Horror Meets Satire: Exploring the Deep Themes of Beauty Aging and Female Self-Worth in 'The Substance'
"The Substance" is not just about shocks and gore though there is plenty of that. It is actually making some strong statements. The movie is tackling the unrealistic beauty standards pushed on women by society and Hollywood. It shows the extreme lengths someone might go to try and hold onto youth and fame. It is also about female self-worth and identity in a world obsessed with appearances.
Some reviewers are even calling it a subversive and liberating movie despite all the disturbing content. It’s pushing boundaries and making viewers confront uncomfortable truths about beauty and aging. The movie uses really strong metaphors and symbolism even bordering on grotesque at times but it is all in service of making a point about these weighty issues.
Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley Go All-In: Physical and Emotional Preparation for Their Intense Roles
Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are getting a lot of praise for their performances and for good reason. They really committed to these roles physically and emotionally. Demi Moore actually alluded to being pushed to her limits during filming. She even got shingles during her first week off and reportedly lost 20 pounds. That shows dedication.
Both Moore and Qualley have full-frontal nudity scenes in the movie which is not something either actress took lightly. Demi Moore said she knew this role wasn't about looking perfect or attractive it was about amplifying perceived flaws and vulnerabilities. As the movie gets crazier with prosthetics and body horror elements both actresses had to really think about how their characters would move and exist in these extreme situations.
Margaret Qualley also went through intense preparation especially for the dance sequences in the film. She had weekend rehearsals for a long time before shooting and admitted that the choreography pushed her way outside her comfort zone. She described the dance scenes as "brutal" both physically and emotionally. It is clear both actresses poured a lot into these demanding roles.
Oscar Buzz Alert: 'The Substance' Scores Major Nominations and Demi Moore is a Frontrunner?!
Here is where things get really interesting. "The Substance" which some might expect to be too "out there" for mainstream awards is actually getting serious Oscar attention. It has racked up five nominations for the 2025 Academy Awards including Best Picture Best Director for Coralie Fargeat Best Original Screenplay Best Actress for Demi Moore and Best Makeup & Hairstyling. That is a huge deal for a movie like this.
Demi Moore is even being talked about as a favorite to win Best Actress. She has already won Critics Choice SAG and Golden Globe awards for her performance. After a long and successful career this could be Demi Moore's moment to finally take home an Oscar. It is definitely a well-deserved nod considering her commitment to such a challenging and boundary-pushing role.
Want to Watch 'The Substance'? Streaming Details and How to Experience This Shocking Film
Intrigued? Want to see what all the fuss is about? You can actually watch "The Substance" right now. It is currently streaming for free on Mubi if you are a subscriber. If you are not on Mubi you can also rent or buy it on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video Fandango At Home and Apple TV.
Just be warned again this movie is intense. Reviews describe it as shockingly gross and a body horror nightmare. But if you are prepared for that kind of experience and interested in a film that is both thought-provoking and disturbing "The Substance" might be right up your alley.
'The Substance' Movie - Key Facts at a Glance:
- Genre: Body Horror Satire Thriller
- Director: Coralie Fargeat
- Starring: Demi Moore Margaret Qualley Dennis Quaid
- Themes: Aging Beauty Standards Female Identity Hollywood Pressure
- Oscar Nominations (2025): Best Picture Best Director Best Actress (Demi Moore) Best Original Screenplay Best Makeup & Hairstyling
- Streaming: Available on Mubi and for rent/purchase on digital platforms (Amazon Prime Video Apple TV Fandango At Home)
Is 'The Substance' Worth Watching? Final Verdict on This Controversial and Buzzworthy Film
So is "The Substance" for everyone? Definitely not. It is graphic it is disturbing and it will probably make you squirm. But if you are looking for a movie that is original daring and tackles complex themes in a truly unforgettable way then "The Substance" is worth checking out. It is a bold and unsettling film that is sure to stay with you long after the credits roll and it might just earn Demi Moore an Oscar in the process. Just be prepared for a wild and very visceral experience.