Demi Moore's Sci-Fi Body Horror Movie Is Officially A Streaming Sensation

Even scientists have recommended things to reverse aging, which speaks to our society's willingness to do anything to stay young. Naturally, horror cinema has responded to the trend, resulting in grotesque streaming hits like "The Substance." Director Coralie Fargeat's gross-out tale has spooked its way into Hulu's top 10 — but viewers should know what they're getting themselves into first.

"The Substance" sees Demi Moore play Elisabeth, an aging celebrity who takes an experimental drug that causes her body to split, producing a younger woman named Sue (Margaret Qualley). Sue becomes an overnight celebrity, causing problems for Elisabeth in the long run. You see, while the pair share the same consciousness, they struggle to co-exist — and the bloodletting begins.

Fargeat's film speaks to modern society's obsession with unrealistic beauty standards for women. Thematically, it's very relevant, but horror hounds will love its throwback qualities. "The Substance" is reminiscent of "The Fly," "Society," and other terrifying sci-fi horror films of the '80s that are held in high regard. The effects are mostly practical, and the goopiness is borderline sickening (in a good way). 

In lesser hands, "The Substance" could have been a trashy gorefest for the midnight crowd. However, Fargeat and the cast elevate the film into the realm of prestige cinema thanks to their intelligence and performances. But what did the critics have to say about it?

It's rare for horror movies to soar at the Oscars. Even the classier ones have failed to make a consistent impact at prestigious awards shows. With that in mind, many horror fans were probably shocked when "The Substance" received five Academy Award nominations — including Best Picture — and took home the prize for Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

"The Substance" deserved more wins at the 97th Academy Awards, but at least it got some recognition. Unsurprisingly, critics loved the film, as evidenced by its 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes. "Audaciously gross, wickedly clever, and possibly Demi Moore's finest hour, The Substance is a gasp-inducing feat from writer-director Coralie Fargeat," the site's critical consensus notes — and rightfully so.

Only time will tell if Fargeat's film is spoken about in conversations around the best sci-fi movies ever made. That said, it's one of the best horror and sci-fi flicks from the past few years. The uninitiated Hulu subscribers should check it out immediately — but brace yourselves for a truly gross and uncomfortable viewing experience.