If you enjoyed the body horror comedy of Coralie Fargeat’s “The Substance” starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley and Dennis Quaid you’re in for a treat with these similar films. These movies also delve into body transformations, dark humor and existential horror often blending science fiction with grotesque imagery to reflect on the human condition. From body horror classics to mind-bending thrillers here are 7 films you’ll surely appreciate:
1. Brain Damage (1988)
Directed by: Frank Henenlotter
Synopsis: “It’s a Headache from Hell.”
In this cult classic Brian falls under the spell of a brain-eating parasite that induces euphoric hallucinations in its hosts. However the addiction comes with grotesque consequences. If you liked the theme of addiction and identity transformation in The Substance you’ll enjoy this film’s absurd, yet terrifying take on bodily control.
2. From Beyond (1986)
Directed by: Stuart Gordon
Synopsis: “Humans are such easy prey.”
A scientist’s machine designed to control the sixth sense accidentally opens a doorway to another universe filled with grotesque creatures. With its eerie atmosphere and body mutations, From Beyond offers a sci-fi horror vibe reminiscent of The Substance‘s exploration of self-augmentation.
3. Society (1989)
Directed by: Brian Yuzna
Synopsis: “The rich have always fed off the poor. This time it’s for real.”
Bill Whitney suspects he’s different from his wealthy family. His worst fears come true when he uncovers a nightmarish secret about the upper class. Society is a grotesque satire on class divisions with a memorable final act that will appeal to fans of the darkly surreal body horror in The Substance.
4. Videodrome (1983)
Directed by: David Cronenberg
Synopsis: “First it controls your mind. Then it destroys your body.”
Max, a TV executive stumbles upon a broadcast signal showing extreme violence. As he digs deeper he’s sucked into a hallucinatory world where media and the body are irrevocably transformed. The film’s eerie parallel to The Substance‘s themes of identity and transformation makes it a must-watch.
5. The Fly (1986)
Directed by: David Cronenberg
Synopsis: “Be afraid. Be very afraid.”
In this sci-fi horror a scientist’s teleportation experiment goes horribly wrong, merging his DNA with that of a fly. As he transforms into a grotesque hybrid, his body slowly deteriorates. This film much like The Substance explores the horrors of self-inflicted bodily change with emotional depth.
6. Possession (1981)
Directed by: Andrzej Żuławski
Synopsis: “The only thing more terrifying than the last 12 minutes of this film are the first 92.”
In this psychological horror a woman’s erratic behavior hides something far more sinister. As her marriage unravels, so does her sanity leading to shocking body horror scenes. Its intense performances and disturbing visuals mirror the emotional and physical transformation found in The Substance.
7. Black Swan (2010)
Directed by: Darren Aronofsky
Synopsis: “I just want to be perfect.”
In a gripping psychological thriller, Nina a ballerina spirals into madness as she struggles to achieve perfection in her art. Like The Substance, Black Swan explores the theme of self-destructive obsession with perfection leading to a mental and physical breakdown.
These films offer a unique blend of horror, sci-fi and psychological elements much like The Substance. They reflect on identity, transformation and the fine line between control and chaos making them perfect companions to Coralie Fargeat’s audacious body horror masterpiece. If you’re ready for more surreal, unsettling experiences, these movies will not disappoint!