One major aspect ofThe Substanceisthe movie’s approach to body horror.
Yet,one disgusting scene has no body horror at all and is still absolutely revolting.
During the scene, Elisabeth is getting lunch with her boss, Harvey.
Though Elisabeth doesn’t eat anything, Harvey stuffs himself with shrimp.
The effect is atrocious.
Audiences end up with a bunch of shots of lip-smacking, chewed-up food, and greasy fingers.
Arguably, this scene makes perfect sense for Quaid’s character and the context.
InThe Substance,Quaid plays Harvey as the perpetually sexist and rude boss of Elisabeth.
Furthermore, the context of the scene is pivotal.
Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading celebrity, turns to a mysterious drug that promises to restore her youth by creating a younger, more beautiful version of herself. But splitting time between her original and new body leads to horrifying consequences as her alternate self, Sue, begins to unravel her life in a disturbing body-horror descent.
At this moment, Elisabeth is learning that she is officially being fired from her show.
Harvey’s chomping is just the cherry on top of an already awful situation.
This just adds insult to injury for both Elisabeth and the audience.
Viewers see just how unfair and cruel Elisabeth’s world can be.
In many ways,The Substanceuses body horror and gross visuals to further its themes.
