It delves into the profound consequences of societal expectations and the objectification of women.

The result is a daring satire that challenges multiple aspects of modern society.

Demi Moores controversial body horrorrole highlights the ageist attitudes prevalent in today’s culture.

The Substance (2024) Official Poster

Thisage-based discriminationcreates a competitive dynamic between the two, further straining their cooperation with the serums rules.

However, the movie’s story is much more complex than a straightforward battle between two competing personalities.

This is important becausethe pair supposedly share consciousness.

Margaret Qualley as Sue scared and on the floor with blood on her face in The Substance

The two do not merely split into physically different selves.

They cannot relate to each other and fail to share the same values and goals.

This is partly due to being in different phases of life.

Headshot Of Demi Moore In The 77th Cannes Film Festival 2024

The younger self is more selfish and narcissistic than the older self.

However, it is important to note that this violent divide of self is alsocaused by external factors.

Their integration is made impossible because of societal messaging.

Headshot Of Margaret Qualley

He makes both Elisabeth and Sue thevictims of the same system.

However, that is a fundamental misreading.

Focusing too much on plastic surgery and Ozempic allegoriesignores the catalyst.

Movies

This is never more clear than in theending ofThe Substance.

Harvey is in the audience waiting for the New Years Eve show, sitting amongst several other suits.

Hetakes credit for Sue being hiscreationand says he hasmoldedher.

The Substance

His desire to be satiated is ultimately what will compel Elizabeth to seek out the Substance.

However, the external gaze of society is used just as much as Elisabeths mirror image.

For example, Elisabeths neighbor knocks angrily at the door believing her to be in the apartment doing DIY.

When Sue comes to the door, his attitude about the noise completely changes, demonstrating pretty privilege.

This echoes the experience of feeling invisible as an older woman.

Source:The Guardian

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