Cast and Crew of The Substance

The Substance

"The Substance" is an intriguing film that delves into the depths of human desire for youth and the extreme measures one might take to grasp at the fading glory of their prime. The narrative centers around Elisabeth Sparkle, a role brilliantly captured by the iconic Demi Moore, who portrays a celebrity grappling with the relentless march of time and the waning spotlight of fame. As Elisabeth confronts the stark reality of her fading stardom, she is drawn to the allure of a clandestine solution: a black market drug that promises the impossible—rejuvenation. This illicit substance, a marvel of illicit science, offers a temporary reprieve from aging by replicating cells to create a younger, more vibrant version of the user.

The supporting cast is no less compelling, with the talented Margaret Qualley taking on the role of Sue, a character whose life intertwines with Elisabeth's in unexpected ways. The dynamic between these two women, each at different stages of their lives and careers, adds a layer of complexity to the story. Sue's character serves as a mirror to Elisabeth's past and a reminder of the innocence and ambition that once defined her. As the plot unfolds, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, witnessing the breathtaking highs and soul-crushing lows that accompany Elisabeth's pursuit of youth. The film does not shy away from exploring the moral and ethical quandaries that such a substance would introduce into society, questioning the very nature of identity and the cost of vanity.

"The Substance" is not merely a tale of science fiction; it is a poignant commentary on the human condition, the fleeting nature of fame, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. As Elisabeth delves deeper into the world of this miraculous drug, the narrative poses thought-provoking questions about the essence of self and the lengths to which one will go to maintain a certain image. The film's engaging plot is complemented by strong performances from its lead actors, who bring depth and nuance to their roles. Demi Moore's portrayal of Elisabeth is both vulnerable and fierce, capturing the desperation of a star who refuses to be extinguished. Margaret Qualley's Sue is the perfect counterbalance, offering a grounded perspective that contrasts with the surreal circumstances of the plot. With its blend of suspense, drama, and ethical dilemmas, "The Substance" is a must-watch for viewers who appreciate a film that not only entertains but also stimulates the mind and touches the heart.

Main Cast of The Substance

Demi Moore as Elisabeth

Demi Moore

Elisabeth
In "The Substance," Demi Moore delivers a compelling performance as Elisabeth Sparkle, a dedicated scientist caught in a thrilling web of intrigue and danger. Moore brings a captivating intensity to the role, effortlessly embodying Sparkle's intellect and determination as she navigates the complexities of her research and the mysterious substance that takes center stage. Her portrayal is both nuanced and commanding, making her a captivating protagonist that viewers will root for throughout the film. Moore's performance in "The Substance" is a testament to her versatility and skill as an actress, and she undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression in this gripping cinematic adventure.
Margaret Qualley as Sue

Margaret Qualley

Sue
In 'The Substance', Margaret Qualley delivers a captivating performance as Sue, a young woman grappling with the complexities of identity and self-discovery amidst a world ruled by a mysterious, reality-altering substance. Qualley's portrayal is both raw and nuanced, capturing Sue's vulnerability and resilience with equal conviction. The actress shines in pivotal scenes, deftly navigating Sue's emotional journey as she confronts the profound implications of her reality-bending experiences. Overall, Qualley's performance in 'The Substance' solidifies her as a talented and versatile actress, capable of imbuing complex characters like Sue with depth and authenticity.
Dennis Quaid as Harvey

Dennis Quaid

Harvey
In the compelling film 'The Substance', Dennis Quaid delivers a standout performance as the enigmatic Harvey, a scientist whose obsession with a mysterious material leads him down a dark and twisted path. Quaid imbues his character with a magnetic blend of intellectual curiosity and unhinged determination, capturing the audience's attention as he navigates the murky waters of scientific discovery, ethical dilemmas, and personal obsession. Quaid's nuanced portrayal of Harvey's descent into madness highlights not only his versatility as an actor but also his ability to bring depth and complexity to even the most troubled of characters. Viewers will be captivated by Quaid's masterful performance and left contemplating the fine line between dedication and obsession.
Edward Hamilton-Clark as Fred

Edward Hamilton-Clark

Fred
Gore Abrams as Oliver

Gore Abrams

Oliver
Oscar Lesage as Troy

Oscar Lesage

Troy
Christian Erickson as Man at Diner

Christian Erickson

Man at Diner
Robin Greer as Male Nurse

Robin Greer

Male Nurse
Tom Morton as Doctor

Tom Morton

Doctor
Hugo Diego Garcia as Diego - Boyfriend

Hugo Diego Garcia

Diego - Boyfriend
Daniel Knight as Casting Director

Daniel Knight

Casting Director
Jonathon Carley as Assistant Casting Director

Jonathon Carley

Assistant Casting Director

Secondary Cast of The Substance

Bill Bentley

Man in Suit #2

Lucie Laffin

Woman from the Public

Felix MacKenzie

Cronenberg

Nicolas Royer

Guy in the Elevator

Manon Arizmendi

Little Girl - New Year's Eve Show

Brett Gillen

Director of Photography - New Year's Eve Show

Claire Lemaire

Screaming Woman

Jiselle Burkhalter

Girl

Martin Graham

Shareholder

Didier Dhondt

Shareholder

Jacques-Yves Dorges

Shareholder

Jean-Claude Matthey

Shareholder

Olivier Jarcin

Shareholder

Aaron Kahn

Greeting Person

Gabriela Arnon

Greeting Person

Nancy Josephson Lahoussine

Greeting Person

Bryan Jones

Greeting Person

Rebecca Lafont

Happy Birthday Person

Cécile Vogt

Elisabeth (Young) - Walk of Fame / Pump It Up Show Dancer

Jean Miel

Worker Walk of Fame

Paul Descoings

Worker Walk of Fame

Benoit Lévêque

Worker Walk of Fame

Arthur Molinet

Cocktail Bartender

Manon Sachot

Cocktail Lounge Couple

Bastien Jorelle

Cocktail Lounge Couple

Kelly Hoarau

Female Assistant - Towel

Michel Juskiewicz

George - Harvey's Friend

Christophe Sartirano

Guy Looking at Sue

Florent Torres

Guy Looking at Sue

Romain Caldeira

Billboard Technician

Barthelemy Thomas

Billboard Technician

William Calvert

Additional Voices (voice)

Audjyan Alcide

Pump It Up Show Dancer

Jonathan Jenvrin

Pump It Up Show Dancer

Mimi Maury

Pump It Up Show Dancer

Amelye Solange

Pump It Up Show Dancer

Kévin Table

Pump It Up Show Dancer

Laura Boera

Sparkle Your Life Show Dancer

Cissy Duc

Sparkle Your Life Show Dancer

Sophie Mercier

Sparkle Your Life Show Dancer

Marie Valton

Sparkle Your Life Show Dancer

Katrina Budzynski

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Alicia Maury

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Megane Adamik

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Annalisa Pagnotta

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Maelle Dantigny

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Aleksandra Kedzierska Fontaine

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Pauline Sagetat

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Agustina Fitzsimons

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Elena Shcheglova

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Eve Marchant

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Lola Donati

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Kate Matthews

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Ophélie Jonard

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Pauline Richard

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Laureen Cappelliez

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Delphine Beaulieu

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Victoria Brun

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Cara Chapman

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Katharine Matthews

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Alexandra Faget

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Clémence Juville

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Margot L'Entete

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Hillary Sukhonos

New Year's Eve Show Dancer

Crew of The Substance

Full backstage crew list →