Demi Moore lost around 10kgs for Oscar-nominated 'The Substance'
What's the story
Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley went through rigorous physical preparation for their roles in the Oscar-nominated film The Substance.
Directed by Coralie Fargeat, the movie stars Moore as Elizabeth Sparkle, a former Hollywood star and aerobics show host who is replaced by her younger self, Sue (Qualley), after consuming a mysterious substance.
The film has been widely praised and has secured nominations across five categories at the 2025 Academy Awards.
Role preparation
Moore's health challenges and body transformation for 'The Substance'
During a conversation with the Los Angeles Times, Moore revealed that her role in The Substance was so demanding that it led to health issues. "On my first week off, I got shingles," she disclosed.
The 62-year-old actor also underwent significant weight loss for the film, stating, "And I then lost, like, 9.07kg."
Despite these challenges, Moore remained committed to her character's portrayal.
On-screen challenges
Moore and Qualley embraced nudity and physicality in 'The Substance'
The Substance demanded both Moore and Qualley to go completely nude in a few scenes.
However, Moore stressed that her priority was not her appearance but truly embodying her character's journey.
She told USA Today, "Part of what was attractive is I knew that this wasn't about highlighting my [body]...that in fact, it would be amplifying those things that you might see as flaws or that you don't want somebody to see."
Training rigor
Qualley's dance training and emotional struggles for 'The Substance'
Qualley, on the other hand, trained extensively in dance for The Substance. She also mentioned to Entertainment Weekly that she had weekend rehearsals "for a long time" before they started shooting.
The 30-year-old actor also opened up about her emotional struggles during the first few days of filming when she found the choreography difficult.
"I was just like, 'I'll be right back, I got this!' I just went to the bathroom and started sobbing," she recalled.