Must-Watch OTT Picks: A Provocative Body Horror, Italy’s First Female Lawyer’s Fight, and More
Discover what to stream this week, from the Cannes-winning body horror The Substance to The Law According to Lidia Poët, a tale of Italy’s first female lawyer, and the legacy of John Williams’ film scores.
Explore Cannes Winner ‘The Substance’ and More Streaming Highlights
Dive into a week filled with gripping stories, from a haunting satire on beauty culture to a real-life tale of legal tenacity in 19th-century Italy.
The Substance: A Dark Satire on Beauty Culture (Streaming on MUBI)
One of this year’s most talked-about releases, The Substance by Coralie Fargeat, is now available on MUBI. This body horror film, directed and co-produced by Fargeat (known for Revenge), stars Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, a former TV fitness icon struggling with the realities of aging. When Elisabeth is unceremoniously ousted from her show by the ruthless studio head, Harvey (played by Dennis Quaid), she discovers a mysterious drug known as The Substance. This miracle injection temporarily transforms her into Sue (portrayed by Margaret Qualley), a young and radiant version of herself. But the catch? She must split her life evenly between her two identities, navigating the treacherous consequences. Fargeat’s Cannes award-winning masterpiece skewers toxic beauty standards, offering a cautionary fable steeped in sharp commentary.
The Law According to Lidia Poët: A Legal Drama Rooted in History (Now on Netflix)
For fans of historical dramas, The Law According to Lidia Poët on Netflix is a must-watch. This Italian mystery-thriller follows Lidia Poët (Matilda De Angelis), Italy’s first female lawyer, as she battles societal and legal challenges in 1880s Turin. Suspended from practicing law due to patriarchal opposition, Lidia teams up with her brother Enrico and a cast of outcasts to defend the wrongfully accused. Inspired by real events, the show delves into Poët’s groundbreaking achievements, from her initial success post-graduation to her eventual re-admittance to the bar at age 65. Each episode unravels a new case, spotlighting her fight for justice in an era that stifled women’s voices.
Mithya – The Darker Chapter: A Tale of Sibling Rivalry (Streaming on Zee5)
Mithya – The Darker Chapter returns viewers to the psychological battleground between half-sisters Juhi and Rhea. Juhi’s literary acclaim with her novel Dhund is suddenly marred by accusations of plagiarism, brought by the enigmatic writer Amit Chaudhary (Naveen Kasturia). Meanwhile, Rhea’s quest for familial acceptance escalates, straining the delicate fabric of their relationship. As manipulation and mind games ensue, the show intensifies the theme of ‘blood versus blood,’ adding a riveting twist with Amit’s arrival. This drama brims with deceit, showcasing how far these sisters will go to secure their desires.
Music by John Williams: A Legacy in Film Scores (Available on Disney+ Hotstar)
Film and music enthusiasts will appreciate Music by John Williams, now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. This documentary chronicles the illustrious career of John Towner Williams, a composer whose work has defined some of Hollywood’s most iconic films. From Jaws (1975) and E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982) to the Indiana Jones series and Jurassic Park (1993), Williams’ compositions have become synonymous with cinematic grandeur. Viewers will gain insights from directors, musicians, and Williams himself, alongside rare footage from his decades-long career. This documentary promises a journey through soundtracks that shaped film history.
Martha: RJ Cutler’s Netflix documentary
RJ Cutler’s Netflix documentary Martha delves into the fascinating journey of Martha Stewart, a lifestyle icon who became America’s first self-made female billionaire. Known for her unmatched influence in homemaking, her unexpected friendship with Snoop Dogg, and her mastery of Instagram selfies, Stewart has left an indelible mark on American culture over the past five decades. The film captures the full scope of her impressive career and personal life, featuring candid interviews where Stewart herself reflects on her experiences. With unprecedented access to her personal archives, viewers get a glimpse into her life through exclusive photos, handwritten letters, and diary entries — providing an intimate portrait of a true cultural trailblazer.
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