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The Substance 2024

Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself?Sep. 07, 2024France141 Min.R

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The Substance is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the complex and often contentious world of psychedelics. Directed by Brandon Cronenberg, the film dives into the history, science, and social impact of substances like LSD, psilocybin, and other psychedelics, examining how these drugs have influenced both individual lives and broader society. Starting with their discovery and early use in scientific research, the film traces their rise in countercultural movements, their vilification and criminalization, and recent resurgence in medical research. Cronenberg includes personal testimonies from users, interviews with leading scientists and historians, and footage from clinical trials. Through a nuanced approach, The Substance challenges conventional perspectives, asking viewers to consider both the benefits and risks of psychedelics in a modern context.

The film showcases Fargeat’s unique style: instead of linear storytelling, she relies on symbolic settings and a vibrant, surreal color palette, highlighting Elisabeth’s internal struggles and critique of societal norms. The bathroom scenes, for instance, present a clinical, isolating space where Elisabeth undergoes her transformations, symbolizing her introspective journey through pain and identity crises

Critics have praised The Substance for both its powerful performances—particularly Moore’s—and its fearless dive into themes of vanity, societal expectations, and the exploitation of women’s bodies. Margaret Qualley and Dennis Quaid add depth to this darkly satirical narrative, which melds absurdity and horror to critique Western beauty standards and the patriarchy. Fargeat’s film has sparked reactions ranging from shock to awe, with audiences noting its visceral storytelling and eerie humor that push horror boundaries, making it both disturbing and thought-provoking

Original title The Substance

IMDb Rating 7.5 105,431 votes

TMDb Rating 7.3 1,739 votes