Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 105

“The Crow” – Movie Review: A Modernized and Much Altered Revival of the 90’s Classic

“The Crow” is a movie directed by Rupert Sanders starring Bill Skarsgård. With FKA Twigs, Danny Huston and Isabella Wei.

Once a modern classic of the 90’s, the film has now been revived with a fresh, modernized, and notably more violent iteration than its original counterpart. Rather than simply remaking Alex Proyas’ renowned film, this new version embarks on a different path, endeavoring to forge its own unique universe, free from the borrowings and homages of its predecessor. This bold choice aims to modernize an already iconic film.

Plot

Eric and Shelley are entwined in an almost idyllic romance, until tragedy strikes, and they are brutally murdered. Eric returns from the dead in an immortal form, determined to avenge his beloved’s death and attempt to rescue her from the clutches of death itself.

About the Film

“The Crow” is a film destined to be endlessly compared to the 1994 classic. It diverges significantly, with a resolute intention to discard Proyas’ visually dazzling aesthetic in favor of creating a new, more contemporary, violent, and grimly realistic universe. However, “The Crow” emerges as an uneven film, with an initial segment that can feel somewhat sluggish until Eric transforms into a vengeful specter. At this juncture, the film shifts dramatically, evolving into a tale of violent retribution that borders on operatic carnage, a stark contrast to the earlier, slower rhythm of the narrative.

Nevertheless, “The Crow” earns commendation for its bold attempt to craft its own aesthetic, transforming the romantic tale into something far more raw, visceral, and savage. Inevitably, comparisons with the original will abound, as it’s impossible to escape them when revisiting the same story. This new version may not eclipse its predecessor, or so it seems, but it stands out as a daring, vibrant film brimming with energy.

Our Opinion

This new rendition, striving to diverge as much as possible from its forerunner, achieves something fresh and noteworthy, particularly in the brutality of its climactic sequences. Although a commendable film, it remains burdened by the unavoidable comparisons to its predecessor.

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“Skincare”: An Engaging Thriller with a Nostalgic Nod to the 90’s and the Dawn of the Internet Age

“Skincare” is a thriller movie starring Elizabeth Banks. With Lewis Pullman, Nathan Fillion and Mj Rodriguez. It is directed by Austin Peters.

“Skincare” is a thriller steeped in irony, especially in its aesthetic choices. Starring the ever-charming Elizabeth Banks, this film transports us back to the vibrant streets of Los Angeles in the 1990s, a time when the internet was emerging as a groundbreaking social phenomenon. The movie delves into the origins of influencers and various subcultures that the internet has since spawned.

Plot

Hope Goldman is an ambitious beautician struggling to keep her business afloat. Adding to her woes, her fiercest competitor sets up shop next door and lands a coveted TV interview, further overshadowing Hope’s efforts. As if this weren’t enough, strange occurrences begin to plague her email account, setting off a chain of events that unravel her life.

About the Film

While “Skincare” carries moral undertones, it stops short of being overtly moralistic. The script excels in delving into the characters’ psyches, making them relatable in their moments of desperation and vulnerability. It masterfully justifies their actions, weaving a narrative of desperate decisions in desperate times.

Moreover, “Skincare” skillfully leverages the aesthetics of the 90s, taking us back to the roots of today’s internet chaos. The hacking of an email account becomes the catalyst that sets everything in motion. The protagonist’s ambition and the pervasive desperation of her environment are palpable throughout the film. The film is rife with irony in every scene, blending thriller elements with a touch of comedy, and cleverly parodying the television thrillers, aesthetics, and characters of that era.

Austin Peters, the director, does an admirable job, crafting a noteworthy thriller filled with irony. He is supported by a stellar performance from Lewis Pullman, who delivers an impeccable portrayal of a psychotic character. However, the film truly belongs to Elizabeth Banks, who once again takes on a challenging role and makes it deeply resonant for the audience.

Our Opinion

“Skincare” is an old-fashioned thriller brimming with essence and irony. It may not be a contender for major film awards, but it marks an impressive directorial debut for Austin Peters and showcases another commendable performance by Elizabeth Banks. The film captures the spirit of the 90s and the nascent internet era, offering a nostalgic yet fresh cinematic experience.

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Exhibition “GUTAI x POP UNDERGROUND” Unveiled at CADAN Yurakucho: A Collaborative Effort by Yoshiaki Inoue Gallery and NANZUKA

NANZUKA is delighted to announce the opening of the collaborative exhibition titled “GUTAI x POP UNDERGROUND,” curated in partnership with Yoshiaki Inoue Gallery and displayed at CADAN Yurakucho. The exhibition has been thoughtfully curated by Akihito Inoue, bringing together a confluence of historical and contemporary art forms.

Jiro Yoshihara, the pioneering founder and leader of the postwar art movement known as Gutai, famously inspired the younger generation of artists with his bold exhortation: “Do not imitate others,” and instead, “create what has never been done before.” These empowering words provided these artists with the audacity and self-assurance to craft their unique means of artistic expression and pursue distinctive creative paths. By freeing themselves from external influences, they could heed their inner voices and strive to materialize those internal visions.

NANZUKA has taken a more expansive approach, championing artists who have garnered recognition predominantly outside the Japanese art landscape, and offering them a stage in the global art arena. In an academically rigorous manner, NANZUKA bridges the dynamic energies of contemporary art with elements of pop culture and related disciplines such as design, illustration, street art, manga, fashion, and music.

“GUTAI x POP UNDERGROUND” represents a synergistic collaboration between six Gutai artists and eight emerging talents from NANZUKA. The exhibition investigates how the individualism and creativity exhibited by members of Gutai have left an indelible mark on contemporary artists, and how these modern artists continue to push the boundaries of artistic expression. This exhibition draws extensively from the Gutai collection of Yoshiaki Inoue Gallery, featuring works by luminaries such as Jiro Yoshihara, known for his iconic circle motifs; Sadamasa Motonaga, who was captivated by the mysteries of nature and famously poured paint directly onto canvas to create abstractions reminiscent of flowing rivers and cellular division; Shozo Shimamoto, celebrated for his radical performances involving the smashing of paint-filled bottles against canvas and the creation of “holes” by puncturing newspaper-covered canvas; Kazuo Shiraga, who, disenchanted with conventional painting methods, developed a technique of painting with his feet while suspended by a rope over a canvas on the floor; Takesada Matsutani, who, based in Paris, has been creating works for over fifty years by pouring vinyl glue onto canvas and then darkening it with pencils; and Etsuko Nakatsuji, who transitioned from ad design to become a prolific artist in painting, sculpture, and printmaking, frequently using the human form as her subject.

Representing NANZUKA are works by a diverse group of artists including Tetsuya Nakamura, who studied lacquer at Tokyo University of the Arts and has since explored various forms that examine how visual information impacts living beings; Hiroki Tsukuda, whose geometric compositions collage urban landscapes, architecture, and symbolic natural elements, all depicted with a futuristic aesthetic; Ryuichi Ohira, who delves into the inherent properties of materials to construct “undefined forms” that channel the primal and irrational human impulse to create; Makoto Taniguchi, who aims to capture his sense of reality by focusing on the invisible yet tangible aspects that lie beyond such binaries as creator and viewer, image and material, and the real and the virtual; Kenichiro Fukumoto, who draws inspiration from natural elements such as plants, spores, cells, and fossils for his oil paintings, drawings, and sculptures that combine woodcarving with ceramics; Kotaro Abe, who blends pigments and mediums with everyday food ingredients like black sesame and tapioca flour to create his own unique “paint”; Yoshiki Muramatsu, whose work is influenced by a broad spectrum of postwar and contemporary culture, resulting in illustrations, flyers, posters, photographs, videos, and animations; and Ryunosuke Okazaki, an artist and fashion designer whose work explores rituals and acts of prayer, and who possesses a vision that transcends conventional frameworks.

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“Uglies” – Netflix’s Latest Offering: A Futuristic Dystopia with a Nod to Youth

“Uglies” is a sci-fi movie starring Joey King, Keith Powers and Chase Stokes.

“Uglies” is a film that transports viewers into a futuristic universe reminiscent of “The Hunger Games” (2008), blending elements of past inspirations to paradoxically strive for a resolution to a chaotic future. This movie is an adventure deeply inspired by the 2008 film and Suzanne Collins’ literary universe, merging futurism with a critique of capitalism and seeking rejuvenation in youth to combat corporate disorder.

Indeed, the films starring Jennifer Lawrence garnered significant public acclaim, and “Uglies” appears to aspire to the same level of success without introducing anything groundbreaking or contributing fresh ideas. Consequently, “Uglies” emerges as yet another adventure tailored for rebellious teenagers seeking self-identity. The narrative offers nothing new, either in literary or cinematic terms.

Plot Summary

At the age of 16, young individuals undergo a cosmetic procedure designed to render them perfect—handsome, beautiful, and socially integrated. The underlying belief is that uniform beauty will eliminate differences and thereby conflicts. However, a splinter society perceives this as a deceptive means of control, suspecting that the aesthetic operation harbors far more sinister implications.

About the Film

“Uglies” seems more intent on appealing to young audiences and achieving commercial success rather than convincing viewers with its underlying concept (which, admittedly, is not without merit). Consequently, “Uglies” recycles marketing strategies that have previously resonated: themes of rebellion, romance, the pursuit of beauty, and the notion that adults are deceiving the younger generation.

Ultimately, the film appears more focused on commercial success than on delivering sincere arguments. In this regard, the movie ironically embodies what it should be critiquing: a rebellion against the system that ultimately succumbs to the very cinematic genre it aims to challenge. It bears too many similarities to recent, superior films, relies heavily on clichés, and features characters who seem more like pawns in the dystopian narrative than soulful beings.

It is particularly unfortunate for Joey King, an actress we regard as phenomenal, who has yet to find a role that truly cements her status. Whether this film will be that defining moment remains uncertain, but we have our doubts.

Our Verdict

“Uglies” is a film that strives for success at any cost, shamelessly borrowing ideas that have worked before but now feel worn out in this context. It is a film that ultimately fails to convince, falling short of its potential.

Where to Watch “Uglies”

Netflix

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“Officer Black Belt” on Netflix: a nostalgic and entertaining crime thriller with a classic flavor

“Officer Black Belt” is a movie directed by Kim Joo-hwan starring Kim Woo-bin.

“Officer Black Belt” brings us a familiar tale of good guys and bad guys, reminiscent of the formulaic yet successful cinema of yesteryears. This uncomplicated action film, devoid of aesthetic, narrative, or moral complexity, is a Korean production that navigates the realm of straightforward storytelling. It flirts with the edges of family-friendly cinema, offering a near-moralistic experience that entertains but doesn’t aspire to leave a lasting impression due to its lack of originality and ambition. The film is undeniably engaging but feels like a transient presence in our lives, barely scratching the surface of memorable cinematic experiences.

Plot

Lee Jung-do, a young athlete and martial arts expert, finds himself in the spotlight when he aids a police officer using his physical prowess. Recognizing his potential, the authorities recruit him as a new agent tasked with capturing dangerous criminals. Alongside his friends and new colleagues, Lee Jung-do embarks on a career filled with peril and excitement, leading them into increasingly complex and challenging situations.

About the film

“Officer Black Belt” meets its entertainment objectives with a well-executed production, though it falls short in script ambition, character development, and aesthetic innovation. The film almost feels like a television production, characterized by its predictable plot and lack of character depth. Adhering strictly to genre conventions, it ends up feeling overly generic, akin to a rental from the days of video stores that is quickly forgotten. In an era of abundant choices, such productions struggle to stand out, leaving a rather bland aftertaste.

The characters are too one-dimensional, the storyline heavily clichéd, and the humor timidly confined within the bounds of family-friendly jokes. The protagonists are depicted as charming and morally clear-cut, while the antagonists are portrayed with an animalistic, almost soulless demeanor. This stark dichotomy leaves little room for nuance or complexity.

Our opinion

The film aims to tell a straightforward story through a sequence of predictable events, resulting in a generic product that ultimately fails to captivate or convince us. Its lack of ambition in scripting and character development confines it to the realm of forgettable entertainment. Despite its charm and occasional moments of tenderness, “Officer Black Belt” remains an unremarkable addition to the genre, overshadowed by its own adherence to convention and predictability.

Where to Watch “Officer Black Belt”

Netflix

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Season 2 of “Midnight at the Pera Palace”: The Quintessential Mystery and Intrigue Make a Triumphant Return to Netflix

“Midnight at the Pera Palace” is a Turkish series created by Elif Usman starring Yasemin Szawlowski.

“Midnight at the Pera Palace” stands as a timeless series steeped in intrigue, mystery, murder, and the fascinating concept of time travel. This delightful concoction of enigmatic charm, adorned with period costumes and sophisticated elegance, is perfect for those who cherish the works of Agatha Christie. Legend has it that the illustrious English writer penned her iconic “Murder on the Orient Express” (1934) within the walls of a room in this very hotel.

The narrative of this series unfolds within the confines of this hotel, and much like the film “Back to the Future” (1985), journeys to the past hold the potential to reshape the present by bending the fabric of linear space-time. Are you prepared for an enchanting voyage back to the most opulent era of literary mystery?

About the Series

“Midnight at the Pera Palace” features Yasemin Szawlowski in the role of Sonia, a tenacious journalist whose ventures into the past create a whirlwind of confusion. Tansu Biçer portrays Ahmet, the hotel’s enigmatic employee who safeguards the key to time travel. This series is a heartfelt homage to mystery aficionados, blending classic delight with a sprinkle of humor, wrapped in the engaging style of Agatha Christie. It delivers murders and enigmas with a touch of amiable charm, devoid of malice, making it a perfect family watch that can be savored without overthinking.

Though it leans more towards traditional entertainment rather than pushing aesthetic boundaries, the series boasts elegant cinematography and a storytelling approach that remains faithfully classic. For those who revel in the sophistication of classic mystery, this series promises to be a treasure trove, meticulously crafted to honor the essence of mystery novels.

Are you a lover of classic tales? Rest assured, this second season of “Midnight at the Pera Palace” is set to dazzle you with an array of surprises and new journeys into the magnificent past of this renowned and enigmatic hotel. Immerse yourself and enjoy.

Where to Watch “Midnight at the Pera Palace”

Netflix

“Ángel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall” – A Netflix Documentary: Unveiling the Most Intimate Side of the Argentine Soccer Icon

“Ángel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall” is a documentary directed by Juan Baldana about the Argentinean soccer player Ángel Di María.

The thrilling match between Argentina and Colombia, the grand finale of the Copa America, witnessed not only Messi’s Argentina triumphing but also the stellar performance of Ángel Di María, the Rosario-born player who etched his name into the annals of Argentine soccer history.

Di María’s journey began at Rosario Central, where he delivered a stunning assist after maneuvering past multiple defenders. This marked the start of a career characterized by its peaks and valleys, ultimately leading him to soccer’s pinnacle: winning the World Cup in 2022 and the Copa America in 2024.

About the documentary

“Ángel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall” is a heartfelt tribute to this left-footed maestro. It is an intensely personal documentary, predominantly narrated by Di María himself, but it also features insights from his close-knit circle—his mother, father, wife, and dearest friends. Each one of them was eager to share in this exploration of the intimate aspects of this Argentine soccer legend’s life.

The documentary also includes appearances by many of his teammates, including the legendary Leo Messi, as well as numerous coaches and colleagues from his time at Real Madrid. All of them highlight Di María’s exceptional technical skills, his tenacity, and his extraordinary dribbling abilities. However, “Ángel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall” transcends beyond a mere showcase of his football prowess; it delves deep into the man behind the athlete, painting a vivid portrait of his humanity over his technical talents.

According to the documentary, Di María’s human qualities were universally cherished. The film is steeped in sentimentality, brimming with affectionate recollections of his hometown, Rosario, and replete with deeply personal anecdotes.

Do you know the charming story behind his marriage proposal? It’s one of the many delightful tales shared in the documentary.

If you are a soccer aficionado, this documentary will undoubtedly resonate with you. It offers a rare glimpse into the softer side of an Argentine national team legend: Ángel Di María.

Immerse yourself in this touching portrayal. Enjoy it.

Where to Watch “Ángel Di María: Breaking Down the Wall”

Netflix

“Billionaire Island” on Netflix: A Norwegian comedy brimming with wealth… and salmon

“Billionaire Island” is a Netflix series created by Anne Bjørnstad and Eilif Skodvin. It stars Trine Wiggen, Svein Roger Karlsen and Ragne Grande.

Hailing from the land renowned for its salmon, this comedy delves into the intricate world of family businesses, colossal fortunes, and an entire empire centered around this delectable and nutritious fish. Beyond nourishing us, salmon evidently generates substantial financial gains.

The series is set against the backdrop of the salmon industry and highlights the humorous power struggles among various families driven by economic motives. It offers an engaging glimpse into the lives of a vibrant and eccentric cast of characters, all portrayed with a distinctly Norwegian flair.

“Billionaire Island” is an ensemble series featuring a diverse array of characters and sharp dialogues. It thrives on the eccentricity and compelling performances of its talented actors. Headlined by Trine Wiggen, the show is built on a solid script that brings out the best in its cast, proving that with a well-crafted storyline and extravagant characters, the actors’ job becomes significantly easier.

Our take

This series presents a fantastic opportunity to experience a unique brand of humor. It serves as an effective parody of class differences, replete with humorous and quirky scenarios. A thoroughly enjoyable addition to Netflix’s lineup.

Where to Watch “Billionaire Island”

Netflix

“Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter” Documentary on Netflix: An Intriguing Tale of a Mother’s Search for Her Long-Lost Daughter

“Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter” is a docuseries directed by Ryan White.

“Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter,” a riveting documentary streaming on Netflix, delves into the harrowing journey of a mother named Cathy, who embarks on an exhaustive search for her adopted daughter. Cathy had to give up her baby girl for adoption years ago, and since that day, she had never laid eyes on her again.

Years passed, and Cathy was devastated to learn that her daughter had vanished without a trace. The police needed Cathy’s DNA to proceed with their investigation, although they initially withheld the girl’s name. Despite this, Cathy soon discovered her daughter’s real identity: Aundria Michelle Bowman. Armed with this crucial information, Cathy took to the internet, connecting with numerous people who had known Aundria. She unearthed a plethora of mysteries surrounding Aundria’s personality and behavior, painting a portrait of a troubled young girl who often found herself in bad company.

This marks only the beginning of Cathy’s quest. From this point onward, “Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter” morphs into a true crime thriller, meticulously unraveling a story replete with violent crimes, sexual assaults, and brutal incidents. The documentary holds the viewer in its grip, presenting a tale with all the grim elements that fascinate true crime aficionados. It’s no wonder that such documentaries command a large and loyal following, drawing thousands of fans to streaming platforms week after week.

About the Documentary

What more can be said about the true crime genre that hasn’t already been explored? This genre seeks to unearth the dark and sordid facets of human nature, often starting from a gruesome incident and building a documentary through interviews, dramatizations, and other narrative techniques. These documentaries, crafted like cinematic thrillers, aim to spotlight the sinister and malevolent aspects of human behavior.

“Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter” exemplifies this genre masterfully. It transforms human suffering into a compelling documentary, attracting audiences by emphasizing the most sensational aspects of a tragic situation. The film excels in its genre, offering viewers constant clues and surprises, all while maintaining an emotional advantage over fictional works: the events depicted really happened, leaving little doubt about their authenticity.

Our Opinion

As a documentary, “Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter” stands out in its genre, showcasing yet again how true crime can spotlight human misery and turn it into a spectacle that captivates the most morbidly curious viewers. The film is a sterling example of how to weave a narrative that not only informs but also keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, reveling in the dark allure of true crime.

Where to Watch “Into the Fire: The Lost Daughter”

Netflix

“Technoboys”: The Most Hilarious Mexican Idol Group on Netflix

“Technoboys” is a Mexican movie starring Luis Gerardo Méndez, Karla Souza and Gabriel Nuncio. It is directed by Gerardo Gatica and Luis Gerardo Méndez, and written by Alexandro Aldrete.

“Technoboys” is one of those uproarious comedies where an old-fashioned boy band aspires to reclaim their musical glory, despite the world around them having transformed dramatically.

A film with a delightful self-awareness: it revels in its own absurdity.

Plot

An aging boy band makes the bold decision to return to the limelight. However, the times have shifted, and so have the members: one is now in a wheelchair, another has reinvented himself as a sexual guru, and a third has transitioned to living as a woman. They must navigate these changes to find success once more!

About the Movie

While it might not be the pinnacle of cinematic achievements—Apocalypse Now likely boasts superior reviews—we found ourselves laughing uncontrollably. “Technoboys” is a comedic exploration of the passage of time and the bewildering modern world that seems alien to those of us in our forties.

“Technoboys” chronicles a group of out-of-date men striving to fit into today’s society. Their attempts are not just absurd but downright hilarious. The film is driven by a lively pace and, more importantly, a cast of talented actors who clearly relish their roles. This comedy, aiming for nothing more than sheer amusement, succeeds brilliantly in delivering just that: a nostalgic journey back to the era of boy bands, showcasing the ridiculousness of the contemporary world to those of us who have crossed the forty-year mark.

Indeed, it is a tale of generational dissonance where mutual understanding is a rare commodity, making adaptation seem like a herculean task. Thus, it’s best to embrace the humor in all this chaos. The movie also serves as a parody, poking fun at boy bands, with some jabs being as blatant as those aimed at the fictional character Melena.

Our Opinion

This could easily be a satire of the Backstreet Boys or NSYNC, as the comedy hilariously caricatures them with a distinct Mexican flair.

We must reiterate: it is not the greatest film ever made, but we absolutely adored the musical numbers within this zany parody. It offers an exceedingly entertaining experience.

Where to Watch “Technoboys”

Netflix

The CastLuis Gerardo MéndezJoaquín FerreiraGermán BraccoKarla SouzaMónica del CarmenDaniela Vega

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