Actor So Ji-sub’s dedication has borne fruit as the film The Substance dominates the box office for independent and arthouse films for three weeks straight, surpassing 150,000 viewers. Despite the releases of major Korean films like Harbin and Firefighter, The Substance has gained traction through strong word-of-mouth, becoming a fan favorite. Since its release on December 11, the film has overcome the challenges of its restricted rating and body horror genre to achieve remarkable success.
In response to the film's popularity, CGV Arthouse announced a special screening of Coralie Fargeat’s short film Reality+ from January 1 to January 14. The film, which explores the pursuit of satisfaction with physical appearances, will be shown at select theaters, including CGV Gangbyeon, Gwangju Sangmu, and Daegu Academy.
The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat, is a 2024 body horror film for which Fargeat handled screenplay, direction, co-editing, and co-production. The story follows Elizabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a faded celebrity who, after being fired by her producer (Dennis Quaid), turns to illegal anti-aging drugs to create a younger version of herself (Margaret Qualley).
The film was imported by Korean distributor Chalan, where So Ji-sub has been active as an investor and co-presenter. Known for championing independent films, So Ji-sub has played a significant role in bringing over 30 films to Korean audiences, including Attila Marcel, Philomena, and Midsommar.
Currently holding a 92% CGV Golden Egg rating and a 99% pre-screening satisfaction score, The Substance has garnered rave reviews. Its audience demographics show a balanced appeal, with 53.4% female and 46.6% male viewers.
Audience reactions on CGV’s review platform have been overwhelmingly positive, with comments like:
The Substance has won multiple accolades, including the Best Screenplay Award at the Cannes Film Festival and the Audience Award in the Midnight Madness section of the Toronto International Film Festival. With 27 wins and 124 nominations, the film has secured major recognition, including nominations in five categories at the Golden Globes and seven at the Critics' Choice Awards. Demi Moore’s performance earned her an Academy Award nomination, marking a new chapter in her career.
Now showing in theaters nationwide, The Substance continues to captivate audiences with its gripping storyline and artistic brilliance. The film runs for 141 minutes.
◈ Independent and Arthouse Films Daily Box Office Rankings (As of December 30, 2024)
1) The Substance – Daily Audience: 4,589
2) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind – Daily Audience: 1,363
3) Small Things Like These – Daily Audience: 1,133
4) First Lady (Documentary about South Korean first lady Kim Keon-hee) – Daily Audience: 1,123
5) Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction: Part 1 – Daily Audience: 567
6) Chuncheon Battle 72 Hours – Daily Audience: 486
7) The Zone of Interest – Daily Audience: 358
8) Perfect Days – Daily Audience: 233
9) Infernal Affairs – Daily Audience: 178
10) The Matrix – Daily Audience: 177