Demi Moore’s resurgence: A deep dive into ‘The Substance’
A star and her tiny companion
“I’m warning you: She loves to dominate a teddy bear,” Demi Moore says with a chuckle as her teacup Chihuahua, Pilaf, toddles into the room. Moore, perched on a kitchen stool in her Los Angeles home, watches her dog with a sly smile. “You’re going to see some humping.”
Pilaf has had a busy year — she was featured in Vogue and seen in the front rows of Paris Fashion Week. Bringing her to the Cannes Film Festival in May was a risk: Would the pint-sized bundle of cuteness upstage her owner at the premiere of her blood-drenched horror film, The Substance? Perhaps Moore knew the role was more beastly than her little pet could ever be.
A leap into the unknown
“I didn’t know how the movie was going to go,” Moore admits as Pilaf, now in the family room, ravages her stuffed animal in a patch of sunlight. “It’s so out of the box. It could have either really worked or been a disaster. To be completely transparent, body horror is not a genre I was extremely familiar with.”
But French writer-director Coralie Fargeat clearly was, drawing on Robert Zemeckis’ Death Becomes Her, David Cronenberg’s The Fly, and Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. In The Substance, Moore’s character, Elisabeth Sparkle, literally splits open to reveal a younger, more perfect version of herself, played by Margaret Qualley. Elisabeth, an Oscar-winning actress turned daytime-TV fitness guru, is devastated after a vile network executive (Dennis Quaid) cancels her show. Desperate, she takes a back-alley drug that uses her DNA to create an improved replica, with the strict rule that Elisabeth must switch between her two identities, old and young, every seven days — or else.
A role that resonates
As the faded star whose self-loathing creates a kind of self-absorbed doppelgänger who could destroy them both, Moore has never been more electric onscreen. “The part needed to be embodied by an actress who was a symbol herself,” Fargeat says. “But I knew those kinds of actresses would be frightened by jumping into something that confronts them with their own phobias. Demi was at a stage in her life where she has confronted all the fears her character has and the violence and self-hatred it can bring on you. She has processed all that in a peaceful way.”
In stark contrast to Elisabeth, who strips away her flesh while seeking approval from men, Moore, at 61, has never been more comfortable in her own skin. “The film raises an important idea: When you chase after something you think is better, you risk losing what you have,” she says.
A career of highs and lows
It was a long road to get here: After Moore established herself as an actress to watch in 1984’s St. Elmo’s Fire and 1986’s About Last Night, her career exploded in the 1990s with hits such as Indecent Proposal, Disclosure, and, of course, Ghost. But when she entered her highest-paid-female-star-in-the-world era, with films like Striptease and G.I. Jane, and appeared nude and very pregnant on the cover of Vanity Fair, her body was the story. Somehow, her talent was an afterthought.
After suffering a string of flops, she stepped out of the spotlight before the spotlight could abandon her as it did Elisabeth Sparkle, raising her three children (with then-husband Bruce Willis) in Hailey, Idaho.
But with her revealing 2019 memoir Inside Out and dark turns in projects like Feud: Capote vs. the Swans and now The Substance, Moore has shown a willingness to crack open her iconic image to reveal something grittier within. Qualley says Moore was relentless in fine-tuning her character, “always on the tip of refinement, understanding it more after every take.”
A triumphant return
The Substance, which thrilled Cannes and will screen at the Toronto International Film Festival this week, has earned Moore the best reviews of her career and even some Oscar buzz. It’s a reminder of just what audiences have been missing.
Get ready for the Demi-ssance.
Reflecting on the journey
The Cannes ovation
Let’s start with the 11-minute standing ovation this movie got in Cannes, your first time with a film in competition. I’ve read some stories that said it was 13 minutes.
Exploring the brutal reality of aging
After this, I will sit you down for a long talk about how standing ovations are calculated at festivals. It’s fair to say The Substance is one of the most brutal films about aging in Hollywood ever made. Why did you say yes?
“I felt like it was one of the most interesting ways to explore the subject. While it’s framed around women, I really felt like it was relatable to all of us as humans — the feeling of being discarded, overlooked. A lack of appreciation for who we are.”
Sharing her autobiography
Coralie told me that you gave her a copy of your autobiography before your first meeting. Why did you do that?
“Coralie is extremely cautious and thorough. All in, we met six times before I was officially offered the part. She was meeting with a lot of people, looking to find the right match for the two main characters. I gave her the book as a way of knowing me — my experience with my body, and the value I gave to my body. The personal torture I put myself through. All that seemed to connect to her big time. She knew that I really understood who the character was.”
Addressing body-centric projects
You were open in your book about your struggle to stay thin, and how it almost cost you work. Were you concerned about doing a project that was so body-centric?
“I had no fear about the subject matter. I know how relatable the story really is. But I put a lot of thoughtful consideration into the level of vulnerability and rawness that was required. The things that push you out of your comfort zone are also what give you the greatest opportunity for growth.”
Provocative roles and public perception
You’ve always conveyed your sexuality in fascinating and artistic ways, both on-screen and with your memorable Vanity Fair covers. You got a lot of criticism for it, especially in the ’90s. For Striptease, much of the conversation around the film was about your topless scenes and your salary.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about me is that I loved my body. The reality is, so much of it was me calling in certain projects that would give me an opportunity to help me overcome insecurities about my body. It was the same with the Vanity Fair covers; it was not that I loved it — it was about trying to free myself from the space of enslavement that I had put myself in.
The other truth is, things that are provocative — not in a sexual way, but things that provoke meaningful thought — have always fascinated me. Take Striptease: There was an interesting kind of judgment placed on a woman who worked as a dancer, but the idea was that this was a woman trying to take care of her child in the best way she could. With G.I. Jane, I thought, ‘If a woman is skilled enough and has the desire to [serve], why wouldn’t we want her there?’ I didn’t understand why that door was closed. Many of my films had similar themes. Indecent Proposal and Disclosure.”
The future of Demi Moore
As Moore continues to redefine her career and challenge herself with roles that push boundaries, it’s clear that her journey is far from over. With The Substance marking a significant milestone, fans and critics alike are eagerly anticipating what’s next for this iconic actress.# A journey through cinema, TV, and music: Reflections and insights
The evolving landscape of cinema and TV
In the ever-changing world of cinema and TV series, the roles and narratives we see on screen often reflect broader societal shifts. One fascinating aspect is the portrayal of women in powerful, often controversial roles. This shift is not just about representation but also about challenging long-standing stereotypes.
Breaking stereotypes: Women as aggressors
Historically, female characters have often been relegated to passive roles. However, recent years have seen a surge in films and series where women take on more aggressive, complex personas. This change is not just a trend but a significant evolution in storytelling. For instance, consider the character dynamics in movies like G.I. Jane and Striptease. These films, despite their initial reception, have paved the way for more nuanced female characters.
The impact of G.I. Jane and Striptease
Reflecting on G.I. Jane, it’s clear that the film faced significant opposition even before its release. The backlash was not just about the content but also about the societal implications of a woman in a traditionally male role. Similarly, Striptease challenged perceptions by portraying a stripper in a sympathetic light. These films were groundbreaking, not just for their narratives but for the conversations they sparked about gender roles.
“If anything in this industry has ever been stacked against me, it was having those two films come out at the same time and becoming the highest-paid actress on top of that.”
The enduring appeal of classic films
Certain movies have a timeless quality that keeps them relevant across generations. Ghost, for example, remains a beloved classic. The film’s enduring appeal lies in its comforting narrative about love and loss. The iconic pottery scene with Patrick Swayze has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the film’s emotional depth.
The magic of Ghost
The success of Ghost can be attributed to its unique blend of romance, comedy, and supernatural elements. The performances of Whoopi Goldberg and Tony Goldwyn added layers of complexity to the story, making it more than just a love story. The film’s alchemy is hard to replicate, which is why remakes often fall short.
“There are some films better left alone, but it depends on what the take is.”
The music that moves us
Just as cinema and TV series evolve, so does the world of music. Albums and songs often capture the zeitgeist, reflecting the emotions and experiences of their time. For music enthusiasts, exploring new releases and rediscovering classics is a never-ending journey.
Rediscovering classics and new releases
Music has the power to evoke memories and emotions like nothing else. Whether it’s the nostalgia of a classic album or the excitement of a new release, there’s always something new to discover. For instance, revisiting an album like Rumours by Fleetwood Mac can be a deeply emotional experience, while exploring new artists can be equally rewarding.
The emotional journey of music
Listening to music is often a deeply personal experience. Songs can transport us to different times and places, evoking memories and emotions. This emotional connection is what makes music so powerful. For example, the haunting melodies of Rumours can evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia, while the upbeat rhythms of a new pop album can lift our spirits.
“Music has the power to evoke memories and emotions like nothing else.”
Personal reflections on the entertainment industry
As someone deeply passionate about cinema, TV series, and music, I find that these forms of entertainment offer more than just escapism. They provide a lens through which we can examine our own lives and the world around us. The stories we see on screen and the songs we hear can inspire us, challenge us, and even change us.
The transformative power of storytelling
Storytelling, whether through film, TV, or music, has the power to transform our perspectives. It allows us to see the world through different eyes and to empathize with experiences different from our own. This transformative power is what makes entertainment so vital.
The role of empathy in storytelling
Empathy is at the heart of great storytelling. When we watch a film or listen to a song, we are invited into the lives of the characters or the emotions of the artist. This connection fosters understanding and compassion, making us more empathetic individuals.
“Empathy is at the heart of great storytelling.”
Exploring new horizons
For those who love cinema, TV series, and music, there is always something new to explore. Whether it’s discovering a hidden gem from the past or diving into the latest release, the journey is never-ending. Here are some recommendations to get you started:
- Movies: Check out the trailer for G.I. Jane and Striptease.
- TV Series: Explore the latest series that challenge traditional narratives.
- Music: Listen to Rumours by Fleetwood Mac and discover new artists on Spotify.
the world of entertainment is vast and varied, offering endless opportunities for discovery and reflection. Whether you’re a fan of cinema, TV series, or music, there’s always something new to explore and enjoy.# Embracing change: A conversation on aging, beauty, and the entertainment industry
Reflecting on self-perception
In the world of cinema and television, the journey of self-discovery and acceptance is often as dramatic off-screen as it is on. One such journey is explored in the film “The Substance,” which delves into the complexities of aging and self-worth. The film’s protagonist shares a poignant reflection: “Seeing only what’s wrong — it’s like you’re seeking to make yourself uglier, so you can look how you feel.”
The impact of ‘The Substance’
Did making “The Substance” change how you feel about aging? The protagonist reveals, “It’s not hugely different before and after. But it gave me a greater appreciation for myself as I am.” This sentiment resonates deeply with many who struggle with societal expectations and self-image. The film challenges preconceived ideas and limitations, emphasizing that one’s story should be self-written, not dictated by age.
Watch the trailer for The Substance
Redefining age and beauty
Who says somebody can’t look a certain way or do certain things? The protagonist asserts, “Your 60s is not what your 60s used to be.” This perspective is refreshing and empowering, especially in an industry that often sidelines women as they age. The protagonist shares, “I had more challenges, particularly in my career, in my 40s than I do now. At that time, no one quite knew what to do with me.”
The changing landscape of roles for women
The protagonist turned 40 while filming a sequel to “Charlie’s Angels.” Reflecting on that time, they note, “After that, there was so much focus on my external self; no one knew where to put me.” However, things have changed. “We see so many more interesting roles for women who are 40 to 50 — what I would call ‘young women.'”
Watch the trailer for Charlie’s Angels
Confronting industry standards
“The Substance” is harsh in how it tackles the entertainment industry, its judgments, and its beauty standards. It boldly confronts the idea that a woman’s desirability ends with her fertility. A particularly striking scene involves Dennis Quaid’s character, a network boss, who bluntly tells the protagonist that women are useless once menopause starts. “Yes, he’s saying, ’You’re done.’ If you look historically, that was true in terms of how women were perceived.”
Inspiration from industry trailblazers
The protagonist finds inspiration in figures like Michelle Yeoh, who are breaking through to show that desirability isn’t tied to anything but one’s being. “She’s such an inspiration. She’s breaking through to show there are different places you can go.”
Watch the trailer for Everything Everywhere All at Once
Personal encounters with industry biases
Have you ever come across a Quaid-like character in your career? The protagonist shares, “It’s been less overt. Like I said before, the door was a bit closed in my 40s. I felt it more in what was available to me.” This subtle yet pervasive bias underscores the importance of internal work and self-acceptance.
Revisiting past work
Do you ever watch your movies? “Once in a while, when the family is together, the kids will put something on, and I’ll watch a couple of seconds.” This occasional reflection brings mixed feelings. “I see little pieces of my work back then, and I go, ‘Oh, hang on, I was so awful.’ Thank God I got the chance to work more.”
Watch the trailer for St. Elmo’s Fire
The resurgence of the Brat Pack
Why do you think the Brat Pack has reemerged into the culture? “Things find their time. There’s a whole generation that has no clue what ‘St. Elmo’s Fire’ is, but Andrew had a genuine desire to explore the effect it had on those of us who were in it.” The protagonist reflects on the pressures faced by young actors and the lack of mental health awareness at the time.
Embracing imperfections
At one point in the conversation, the protagonist receives some photos via text from their stylist. Looking at them, they tense up. “I’m not perfect. Sometimes I’ll look at a photo and think, ‘I look old,’ or whatever. But I’ve learned to deal with it.”
Finding self-worth
How? “It’s about catching the feeling in the moment and then pivoting. A stranger once told me something a long time ago that’s stuck with me ever since. She said, ‘You’ll never be enough.'”
Final thoughts
The protagonist’s journey is a testament to the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry and the importance of self-acceptance. As they continue to challenge societal norms and redefine beauty standards, their story serves as an inspiration to many.
Explore more trailers and information on Movie and TV Trailers