“I thought it was horrible”: John Carpenter gives his honest opinion on one of the best recent horror films – Cinema News

John Carpenter is, for many, the Master of Horror. And rightly so, as the filmmaker defined much of the genre’s modern cinema with classics such as Halloween, The Enigma of Another World and On the Edge of Madness. His influence is undeniable, and although the director rarely participates in in-depth debates, his technical approach has shaped generations.

However, even big names in horror can have strong opinions about other filmmakers’ work. Recently, Carpenter expressed his complete contempt for The Substance, one of the best films of 2024.

John Carpenter did not identify with the phenomenon

During Fan Expo 2025, Carpenter commented on the film when a viewer said she loved it: “Well, I didn’t like it.” When asked, the director was emphatic: “What did I like about The Substance? Nothing. I found everything horrible.” These words contrast sharply with the critical reception of the film, which won the Oscar for Best Makeup and was nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Screenplay.

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The Substance tells the story of Elizabeth (Demi Moore), a Hollywood fitness guru who faces industry scorn as she turns 50. Upon discovering a mysterious rejuvenating substance, her body spawns a younger version of herself (Margaret Qualley), allowing her to regain her success and the public’s admiration. The film mixes body horror with a direct critique of ageism and the obsession with youth.

Although the director, Coralie Fargeat, has cited Carpenter as an influence, along with other cinema giants such as David Cronenberg, David Lynch and Tim Burton, it seems that her style and approach never captivated the horror master. Carpenter found no affinity with Fargeat’s satirical and grotesque style, even though The Substance was praised for its creativity and originality.

Without filters or nuances, his statements serve as a reminder that even cinema icons have personal opinions that may differ from the general perception of critics and the public.