Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, set to release in theaters on September 20, 2024, is a body horror film that explores the extremes of beauty and youth in the entertainment industry. The story centers on Elisabeth Sparkle, portrayed by Demi Moore, a once-popular television aerobics instructor who faces the harsh reality of aging when she is abruptly fired on her 50th birthday. This shocking dismissal sets the stage for her desperate quest to reclaim her former glory. Music from the movie’s soundtrack bellow.
After a car accident leads her to a hospital, Elisabeth encounters a young surgeon who discreetly hands her a flash drive labeled “The Substance.” This drive contains information about a black-market serum that promises to replicate her cells, allowing her to temporarily inhabit a younger, more attractive version of herself. Intrigued by the possibility of rejuvenation, Elisabeth decides to undergo the procedure, which results in the emergence of her younger self, Sue, played by Margaret Qualley. However, this transformation comes with dire consequences, as the two versions of Elisabeth must navigate a complex and perilous existence, switching places every seven days while dealing with the psychological and physical ramifications of their arrangement.
The film features a great cast, including Dennis Quaid as the sleazy executive Harvey, who embodies the industry’s obsession with youth and beauty. The production of The Substance marks a collaboration between several companies, including Working Title Films and Blacksmith, a Paris-based studio founded by Fargeat. Originally, Ray Liotta was cast in a role, but following his passing in May 2022, Dennis Quaid was brought in to fill the part.
The Substance (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
- Original Music Composed by Raffertie
Songs played in the The Substance Soundtrack
- Fade Away – Pyrit
- Original – Ty Frankel
- Sunshine at Midnight – Jon Du
- Pump It Up (Remix) – Endor
- Lost Cool – Holy F*** & Lucia Tacchetti
- She Got Ooh Yeah (feat. Anna Sinfield) – Lincoln Grounds
- Also Sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30. 1, I. Einleitung (Sonnenaufgang) – Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Charles Mackerras
Filming took place primarily in Paris, wrapping up in October 2022. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2024, where it received acclaim and won the Best Screenplay award for Fargeat. Critics have noted the film’s striking visuals and its commentary on societal standards of beauty, drawing comparisons to works by renowned filmmakers like David Cronenberg.