"The Substance" stands out with its unique style and aesthetics, reminiscent of hyperpop in music. The film pushes realism to the point of absurdity, creating a surreal and unsettling experience. It uses frequent close-ups that zoom into intricate facial details, slow-motion shots, and highly detailed scenes of unpleasant things. This intense visual approach is paired with a powerful sound design that often feels ASMR-like. Sounds such as chewing, a pill dissolving in water, or a cigarette burning are amplified, adding to the overall unnerving atmosphere. This combination reminds me of SOPHIE's "Faceshopping," both in style and theme, focusing on beauty ideals, their distorted versions, and the idea of beauty as a commodity. Even the font used in both is similar.
At first glance, the plot and certain scenes might seem unrealistic or hard to believe if taken literally. However, when viewed through the lens of "hyperfilm," it becomes clear that the movie isn't striving for realism. Instead, it plays with exaggerated images and concepts to convey its message effectively. The substance at the heart of the story remains vague—its origins, workings, and creators are never fully explained, emphasising that the specifics aren't as important as the broader themes it represents. No one would ever buy or easily take something like this so recklessly. But the focus is on the idea of an easy "cure for age," highlighting society's obsession with eternal youth and perfection.
Emotionally, the film delves into the protagonist's struggle between accepting herself and seeking external validation. This internal conflict is depicted in an exaggerated fashion, intensifying the feeling of discomfort associated with the desire for acceptance. For example, the girl's futile attempt to build a hidden compartment in the bathroom symbolizes her efforts to hide her insecurities and past imperfections, rather than being a realistic depiction of such an action. Another poignant scene involves her meticulously altering her appearance in the mirror, obsessively adjusting every detail to meet an unattainable standard, further illustrating her battle with self-acceptance. Additionally, the protagonist is seen isolating herself from friends and family, choosing solitude over genuine connections to maintain her crafted image, which underscores her deep-seated need for external approval.
There are also Tarantino-esque vibes, with graphic violence and numerous explicit scenes involving needles. These grotesque moments make the film difficult to watch at times, illustrating the severe consequences of chasing unrealistic beauty standards or immortality. This imagery underscores the physical and psychological toll of pursuing unattainable ideals, highlighting the destructive nature of such obsessions.
The ending of "The Substance" might initially seem absurd, but it serves a purpose. By avoiding a traditional happy resolution, the film emphasises the ongoing nature of the issues it addresses. She takes another dose of the substance. The absurdity prevents a neat wrap-up, instead prompting viewers to reflect on the problematic aspects of technology and societal behaviour related to beauty standards. The scene where the protagonist's blood spills over the investors and the audience symbolises our collective responsibility for perpetuating harmful beauty ideals through our consumption and demands.