We have good news to share with all the sci-fi horror fans out there. Every month, HBO Max unveils its complete list of new movies and shows coming to its platform for viewers to stream. The official October 2025 list has finally been revealed, and you won't believe what's included!
Remember that really disturbing sci-fi body horror movie that came out last year, which had everyone talking? Yes, the one with Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, where they literally transform before your eyes in ways that are equal parts shocking and utterly grotesque! The Substance is set to make its HBO Max debut next month, and we've got all the details below.
The Substance arrives on HBO Max just in time for Halloween
Maybe you missed when this critically acclaimed sci-fi horror flick hit theaters back in September 2024, or perhaps you don't have a subscription to MUBI, which is where The Substance currently streams. Fortunately for you, HBO Max has acquired the streaming rights and will soon add it to its platform.
Drum roll, please! This audaciously dark sci-fi body horror is scheduled to arrive on HBO Max on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025. At 2 hours and 20 minutes, The Substance is one twisted, grotesquely inventive thrill ride from start to finish. But just as a heads up, it's definitely not for the faint of heart. As mentioned earlier, it's not just a sci-fi movie. It's a body horror film as well, so there are many visually intense sequences that can be unsettling for some viewers.
And when we say "body horror," there's no sugarcoating it. Expect shocking transformations, grotesque mutations, and surreal, often jaw-dropping imagery that will make you gasp, squirm, and maybe even question what you just saw. Remember when we said The Substance had everyone talking? It's because of this exact reason. With its upcoming release on HBO Max, the film is likely to see a resurgence in popularity as new audiences discover it for the first time. In fact, some of those who have already seen it will likely rewatch it as well. I know I will!
What is The Substance about?
The Substance comes from Coralie Fargeat (Revenge). She wrote, directed, and produced the film. It centers around a woman named Elisabeth Sparkle. Elisabeth, a once well-known actress, struggles with the decline of her career and identity as she confronts the unforgiving realities of an industry obsessed with youth. When she discovers a mysterious black-market drug called “The Substance,” she becomes a younger, flawless version of herself named Sue. However, this astonishing transformation brings with it horrifying, grotesque, and shocking consequences.
Moore takes on the leading role of Elisabeth, while Qualley portrays Sue. Also in the cast are Dennis Quaid, Hugo Diego Garcia, Edward Hamilton-Clark, Christian Erickson, Robin Greer, and others.
Below, we shared the movie's official trailer for you to check out.
The Substance makes its landing on HBO Max on Oct. 10. Don't forget to save the date!