A Homage to Kubrick: Exploring His Influence on ‘The Substance’. A Deep Dive Into How Director, Coralie Fargeat references elements from Kubrick’s film to create her sophomore movie The Substance.
The Substance is a thought-provoking film that confronts the issue of ageism, a topic increasingly relevant in today’s society. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, the movie cleverly packages its commentary through the lens of body horror and gore while maintaining a somewhat comedic tone, leaving the audience on an emotional rollercoaster. As the film unfolds, it sparks a crucial conversation about societal attitudes toward aging, particularly in a world saturated with anti-aging products that implicitly suggest that aging is undesirable.
Demi Moore delivers a stellar performance as Elisabeth Sparkle, a fitness star who gets fired from her job and discovers a substance that allows her to switch bodies every seven days with a younger version of herself. This younger persona, Sue, played by Margaret Qualley, is a flashier, more vibrant iteration of Elisabeth. As the movie unfolds, chaos ensues as they navigate the challenges of switching bodies.
The movie also masterfully tackles the topic of gender, illustrating how women are particularly subjected to anti-aging discourse. Throughout the film, themes of beauty standards are prevalent, emphasizing the notion that Hollywood is filled with youth-obsessed men who dismiss women over the age of 50 as unworthy. This perspective suggests that women have a “shelf life,” highlighting the societal pressures regarding aging and beauty.
The Shining and The Substance:
A significant aspect of Fargeat’s direction for the film is the selection of references, particularly those to Stanley Kubrick. The film evokes a sense of horror reminiscent of Kubrick’s work, especially in The Shining. Fargeat’s use of these references goes beyond mere aesthetics; she draws on the meanings and themes present in Kubrick’s films, enhancing the narrative with deeper layers of horror and commentary.
The Substance clearly riffs on The Shining, right down to its own geometric carpet. Image copyright (©) MUBI
One of the most recognizable elements in The Substance that echoes Kubrick’s films is the hallway of the studio where Elisabeth and Sue work. The geometric carpet closely resembles the one from The Shining, while the eerie emptiness of the hallway evokes a similar sense of unease. This choice of a long, almost infinite corridor symbolizes the hollowness of Hollywood, reflecting the emptiness and isolation often felt within the industry.
Another homage to the director is found in the studio’s bathroom, which is entirely painted bright red, reminiscent of the bathroom in The Shining. Fargeat’s references extend beyond mere visual appeal; they are intentional choices that set the stage for what is to come later in the film. The use of liminal spaces in this context creates a disorienting atmosphere that mirrors Elisabeth Sparkle’s emptiness and the loneliness she experiences.
Image copyright (©) MUBI
More one-point perspective in The Substance. Image copyright (©) MUBI
Additionally the makeup and special effects in the film, particularly in a scene where Elisabeth is presented as an elderly woman. This transformation closely resembles the old woman in the green bathroom of Room 237 in The Shining. The way that Elisabeth is depicted in a state of deterioration and distress highlights Fargeat’s ability to evoke a sense of horror, drawing parallels between the two films.
Overall Fargeat skillfully captures the essence of Stanley Kubrick’s films, particularly The Shining, and effectively incorporates Kubrick’s use of horror elements, creating a world that draws the audience deeper into the movie and its underlying messages. Additionally, the references serve as Easter eggs for those who can recognize them. (Text Emily Naima)
Watch the trailer below: