Episode 198: ‘The Substance’ / Botox

Today Asif and Ali discuss the Oscar nominated movie “The Substance” (1:44) (mild spoilers follow). They discuss the overall genre of body horror and the classic Canadian filmmaker David Cronenberg and how the end of the substance is similar to the end of ‘The Fly’. They then chat about how ‘The Substance’ was developed by acclaimed director Coralie Fargeat. They discuss the cast –  including an award winning turn by Demi Moore – and the superb make up and special effects. They also briefly discuss some alleged conflict on the set. The guys then sum up their thoughts on the movie. 

 

Then Ali asks Asif about botulinum toxin (Botox) (23:05) . Asif discusses first what botulism is and how humans can be infected with it, especially in infants. He then discusses the toxin specifically, and chats about what it is, how it works and its use in cosmetic procedures as well as medical procedures. Asif then discusses the risks of the procedure and the costs. 

 

The opinions expressed are those of the hosts, and do not reflect those of any other organizations. This podcast and website represents the opinions of the hosts. The content here should not be taken as medical advice. The content here is for entertainment and informational purposes only, and because each person is so unique, please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions.

 

Music courtesy of Wataboi and 8er41 from Pixabay

 

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Show Notes:

• Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley recall 'brutal,' bloody shoot for grotesque horror film The Substance: 'Can't f---ing move': https://ew.com/demi-moore-the-substance-brutal-shoot-prosthetics-blood-preview-8713538
• The Brains Behind ‘The Substance:’ How Coralie Fargeat Stayed True to Her Gutsy Vision: ‘Everyone Wanted Me to Make It Less Violent, Less Excessive’: https://variety.com/2025/film/global/the-substance-coralie-fargeat-oscars-1236289808/
• If You Thought Demi Moore’s Transformation Was Crazy in ‘The Substance,’ Wait Til You Hear How They Did It: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/demi-moore-the-substance-crazy-scenes-1236062561/
• Inside Elisabeth’s Transformation Into ‘Gollum’ and ‘Monstro’ in ‘The Substance’: https://www.indiewire.com/features/craft/the-substance-prosthetic-designer-gollum-monstro-interview-1235051839/
• Demi Moore filmed 45 ‘very difficult' takes of ‘heart-wrenching’ scene in The Substance: ‘Got to a point where I… https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/hollywood/demi-moore-filmed-45-very-difficult-takes-of-heart-wrenching-scene-in-the-substance-got-to-a-point-where-i-101725428808345-amp.html
• Botulinum Toxin: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557387/
• Botox: Cosmetic and medical uses: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158647#medical-uses
• Botulinum Toxin Injection for Facial Wrinkles: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2014/0801/p168.html