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Dennis Quaid had no doubts about Demi Moore's performance in The Substance-so much so that he predicted she'd win an Oscar just two days into filming.
The 70-year-old actor, who stars alongside Moore and Margaret Qualley in the psychological horror film, recently shared his early confidence in Moore's performance.
"I knew it like my second day working on that movie. I told Demi she's going to win an Oscar for it," Quaid revealed in a recent interview while promoting his True to Texas campaign alongside Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey.
Quaid's prediction seems more likely than ever, as Moore has already secured major wins at the Golden Globe Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Now, with The Substance leading the pack with five Oscar nominations, including Best Actress for Moore, the industry is buzzing about her long-overdue recognition.
Directed by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance takes a dark look at Hollywood's obsession with youth and perfection. Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle, a once-glamorous movie star discarded by her producer, Harvey (played by Quaid), for no longer fitting the industry's unattainable beauty standards.
In desperation, Elisabeth turns to The Substance, a mysterious underground drug designed to create a younger version of herself. But as expected in the horror genre, the seemingly miraculous cure spirals into a terrifying ordeal.
The film, which has received widespread critical acclaim, is nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Makeup and Hairstyling. However, it is Moore's emotionally charged and physically demanding performance that has captivated audiences and solidified her position as the frontrunner for Best Actress.
Quaid praised Moore's commitment to the role, calling it "a gargantuan effort." He noted the sheer dedication involved in her transformation, explaining, "I mean, it took nine months to do that. She was in makeup for like six, eight hours at a time. And the whole movie, what it says-Coralie as a director, I just love working with her. She reminds me of Stanley Kubrick and Sam Peckinpah put together."
A Long-Awaited Recognition for Moore
For Moore, the recognition feels like a career-defining moment. Despite being a Hollywood staple for over four decades, she had never won a major acting award until this year.
During her Golden Globe acceptance speech, she reflected on how, for years, she believed she wasn't "allowed" to win prestigious accolades.
"I've been doing this a long time, over 45 years, and this is the first time I've ever won anything as an actor," Moore said.
She also recounted a moment from 30 years ago when a producer dismissed her as a mere "popcorn actress," implying she lacked the depth for serious awards consideration.
That moment stayed with her, shaping her perspective on success in the industry. But standing on the stage, award in hand, Moore acknowledged her personal and professional growth.
"I had a woman say to me... 'You can know the value of your worth if you just put down the measuring stick.' And so today, I celebrate this as a marker of my wholeness... and being reminded that I do belong."
Her speech resonated with the audience, earning her a standing ovation. Presenter Kerry Washington even quipped, "Wow, good luck to the next person," acknowledging the impact of Moore's heartfelt words.
Will Quaid Be at the Oscars?
As the Academy Awards approach on March 2, Quaid remains uncertain about attending the ceremony to The Substance. His schedule may prevent him from making an appearance, as he is currently filming his role as a serial killer in the series Happy Face.
"I haven't decided yet. I don't think scheduling is going to allow me to do it. I may be working... but we'll see," he itted.
The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, will air live on ABC at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 2. Whether Quaid makes it to the event or not, one thing is certain-his early prediction about Moore's Oscar potential is looking more accurate by the day.