Mike Flanagan, the master behind some of the most unsettling and atmospheric horror films and series in recent years, has shared his absolute favorite horror movie of 2024 on his Letterboxd page. Can you guess which film it is? It might be tricky, considering the array of standout horror releases last year, including A Quiet Place: Day One, Abigail, Alien: Romulus, Heretic, Trap, Smile 2 and more. However, this particular film clearly left a lasting impression on Flanagan, as it’s the only horror movie he included in his list of favorite films for 2024.
No, it's not Longlegs, nor is it Nosferatu. However, those are some incredible films too. Drum roll, please! Out of all of the horror movies released in 2024, Mike Flanagan's favorite of the year was Coralie Fargeat's The Substance. Honestly, this doesn't come as a surprise as this film was also a favorite among many horror fans.
Much like Longlegs, The Substance was the talk of the town when it hit theaters. Viewers couldn't stop talking about how disturbing and twisted it was, with some calling it a body horror masterpiece. Not only was it loved by regular viewers, but it was also praised by critics for its strong performances, intriguing premise, dark humor, etc. Truthfully, we should have seen it coming that this would be a standout movie, especially considering it received an impressive 13-minute standing ovation during its premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Fargeat had even received the award for Best Screenplay at the festival.
The Substance was later released in theaters in September 2024, where it had an outstanding run. By the end of its theatrical release, the body horror film had grossed between $77 and $82 million worldwide. In addition to its box office success, it received five Oscar nominations and five Golden Globe nominations, ultimately winning one award from each. It would later find a new audience when it made its streaming debut on Mubi, where it continued to captivate viewers and spark discussions.
Fargeat penned the script as well as produced and directed the film. This would mark her second feature, with the 2017 action thriller Revenge being her debut. Golden Globe Award-winning actress Demi Moore, who hadn't been in a horror film since her role in the 2019 comedy-horror Corporate Animals, made her return to the genre by taking on the lead role of Elisabeth Sparkle.
Once a beloved Hollywood star, Elisabeth later shifted careers and became the host of her own aerobics TV show. Her life appeared to be thriving until she was unexpectedly fired on her fiftieth birthday because of her age. Struggling with feelings of loss and despair, Elisabeth finds hope when she discovers a new black market drug that promises to transform her into a younger and much better version of herself. But this drug comes with a dangerous price. If she doesn't adhere to the drug's strict guidelines, there are terrifying consequences.
Emmy-nominated actress Margaret Qualley stars alongside Moore as Sue, while Golden Globe nominee Dennis Quaid plays the role of Harvey. Hugo Diego Garcia, Phillip Schurer, Joseph Balderrama, and Robin Greer are also in the cast.
If you haven't seen The Substance or would like to watch it again, it can be found on Mubi. However, you'll need a subscription in order to watch it on the streaming platform. Your other option is to rent or purchase the film from digital retailers such as Prime Video, Fandango at Home, or Apple TV.