The SubstanceSarah8.9· December 15, 2024FollowRewatching it only really confirms how I felt about it initially- it’s a really tragic film !!!How I see it is that they literally ARE the same person down to the consciousness, memories (EVERYTHING!) , which is why they repeat it so many times that they are one. Elisabeth is Sue, just as Sue is Elisabeth. Elisabeth holds so much hatred towards herself that she completely separates mentally into two people (i.e like how negative self-speak always uses „you”) . Using the Substance only enables Elisabeth to view herself from the 3rd person, allowing her to be even more cruel towards herself, reflecting back all the judgement she receives. Elisabeth gives herself no goals when she’s not Sue, she has no life purpose when she’s not attractive (or maybe the goal in itself is to be beautiful) which inevitably spirals . I think it’s cruel to blame Elisabeth/ women for falling victim to something meant to trap them (duhh) , and the substance has clear parallels to beauty procedures that are increasingly more popular. An on the nose but still strong critique of the beauty industry , rlly relevant in the era of ozempic + cosmetic surgery - heavy on fillerCommentsSign in to react and join the conversation.Sign inGet the appSee all Sarah's reviews for The Substance (3)First watch8.9October 24, 2024Rewatch 18.9December 15, 2024Rewatch 28.9December 22, 2024
