The Substance

'The Substance' is a satirical body horror film starring Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, a former superstar who is fired from her popular television program on her 50th birthday because she is no longer considered young enough.

In desperation, she tries a mysterious black market product called 'The Substance' that promises a younger, prettier and more perfect version of herself. What begins as a dream of eternal youth gradually develops into a nightmare in which the pursuit of perfection can cost her her identity.

The film explores beauty ideals, self-loathing, and society's obsession with youth and beauty. Director Coralie Fargeat simultaneously turns on body horror, dark humor and grotesque imagery, making the film's critique of body transformation and women's aging physically and uncomfortably present.

Director: Coralie Fargeat
Starring: Demi Moore
Country/year: United States, 2025
Running time: 141 min.
Formato: DCP
Language: Danish subtitles
Age limit: Allowed for children over 15

Part of the series: Don't Fear the Weird 2026
Cinematek is again this year at the centre of the Don't Fear the Weird festival, where films, conversations and community come together. Throughout the festival days, we invite the audience inside for a series of film experiences that explore psychological vulnerability, community, identity and being human in different ways.