Demi Moore’s new film “The Substance” featured several scenes with full nudity, which the 61-year-old actress described as a “vulnerable experience” at the Cannes Film Festival press conference.
In the body horror movie, Moore plays a fading celebrity who uses an experimental drug that creates a younger clone of herself, played by Margaret Qualley. This required Moore to be nude on screen while studying Qualley’s body after her “rebirth.”
Moore credited Qualley for making her feel comfortable during their intimate nude scenes, saying they had a good partnership and found humor amidst the bizarre situations. She emphasized the importance of mutual trust and open communication.
As the film progresses, Moore’s character becomes disfigured due to the effects of the drug, requiring extensive prosthetic makeup reminiscent of the witch from the movie “The Witches.” Moore found it strange seeing herself that way but said her dog still recognized her.
Her co-star Dennis Quaid, who stepped into a role intended for the late Ray Liotta, dedicated his performance to the acclaimed actor who passed away last year.
The film received an 11-minute standing ovation at Cannes, the longest of the festival so far. The French director discussed using body horror as a vehicle to explore feminist themes and violence against women, hoping it contributes to broader conversations around these issues.