Coralie Fargeat, known for her fierce debut in Revenge (2018), returns to the screen with The Substance, a chilling, satirical exploration of body horror and society’s obsession with youth and beauty. Starring Demi Moore, this feminist horror film shines a brutal light on the high price of fame, ageism, and self-worth. After a celebrated premiere at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, the film has garnered attention for its intense story and dynamic cast. Here’s a breakdown of the key characters and cast in The Substance.
The Substance Main Cast & Characters:
Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle
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- Character Overview: Elisabeth Sparkle, a once-beloved TV aerobics star, grapples with society’s harsh standards as she approaches 50. Facing career upheaval, Elisabeth’s journey grows darker when she encounters the mysterious “Substance” that promises youth but has eerie, irreversible effects.
- Notable Works: Demi Moore’s illustrious career includes iconic roles in Ghost, St. Elmo’s Fire, and Indecent Proposal. In The Substance, Moore delivers a transformative performance that critiques the very industry she’s been part of for decades.
Margaret Qualley as Sue
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- Character Overview: Sue represents Elisabeth’s youthful “other self” after taking the Substance, embodying society’s ideal of youth and beauty. While Sue’s appearance is glamorous, she reflects Elisabeth’s internalized self-hatred and struggles to maintain control over her new life.
- Notable Works: Margaret Qualley, acclaimed for roles in The Leftovers and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, brings complexity to Sue’s character. Her nuanced performance captures the dark side of beauty standards.
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Dennis Quaid as Harvey
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- Character Overview: Harvey is a powerful executive who embodies the exploitative and ageist values that plague Elisabeth’s career. With a network of wealthy, older men by his side, he oversees Elisabeth’s career decline with a chilling indifference.
- Notable Works: Dennis Quaid, with a career spanning five decades, is known for roles in Far from Heaven, The Rookie, and Lawmen: Bass Reeves. His portrayal of Harvey is both unsettling and memorable.
Gore Abrams as Oliver
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- Character Overview: Oliver, Elisabeth and Sue’s neighbor, initially displays contempt for Elisabeth’s presence but changes his tune after meeting the younger Sue. He represents the casual misogyny that prizes youthful beauty.
- Notable Works: Gore Abrams has appeared in horror films such as Hell House LLC and Marinette, bringing intensity to his roles.
Oscar Lesage as Troy
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- Character Overview: Troy, one of Sue’s romantic interests, encounters both Elisabeth and Sue but treats them starkly differently. His brief role highlights society’s biased view of age and beauty.
- Notable Works: Oscar Lesage has been featured in Marie Antoinette and Monsieur Spade, showing versatility in his performances.
