Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 112

“Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE” Documentary on Netflix: Introducing K-Pop to Los Angeles

“Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE” is a documentary about a k-pop academy.

In the vibrant cultural landscape of South Korea, a phenomenon known as the “Idol Group” has taken the world by storm. These groups, composed of talented young men or women, captivate global audiences with their stunning choreography and impassioned performances. Their influence stretches far beyond Korea’s borders, enchanting fans worldwide.

Now, Netflix invites viewers into this dazzling world through a reality show that aims to transplant the rigorous training regimen of Korean Idol Groups to the heart of the United States—Los Angeles. The ambitious goal is to utilize this proven methodology to create an internationally acclaimed Idol Group.

About the Program

To achieve this, Netflix has enlisted the expertise of none other than Bang Si-Hyuk, the visionary president of Hybe. Renowned for his pivotal role in the meteoric rise of global sensations like BTS, Bang Si-Hyuk brings unparalleled experience to the table. Joining him are an elite team of choreographers, vocal coaches, and industry professionals, all dedicated to crafting a new girl group named KATSEYE.

This program format, though familiar to Korean audiences, is a novel venture for the United States. In Korea, entire companies are devoted to the production of such shows and the meticulous formation of Idol Groups. What sets this initiative apart is the introduction of the demanding Training and Development (T&D) methodology to American soil. This intensive program emphasizes dance, pushing the participants to master intricate and high-energy routines with impeccable precision.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, the 21st, as Netflix brings the electrifying world of K-Pop to the United States with its groundbreaking show, “Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE.” Get ready to witness the birth of the next global sensation right from the comfort of your home.

Where to Watch “Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE”

Netflix

The GroupSophia LafortezaDaniela AvanziniMegan SkiendielManon BannermanLara RajagopalanJeong Yoon-chae

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Season three of “Back to 15” on Netflix delves into time travel with a fresh setting: college life

“Back to 15” is a Brazilian Netflix series starring Maisa Silva. It is created by Janaina Tokitaka.

Maisa Silva and Camila Queiroz share the role of Anita, a character who navigates nearly two decades apart, thanks to a magical internet page that transports her back to her teenage years. This season, we reunite with Anita as she embarks on her college journey, studying Fine Arts. Alongside new classmates and facing novel dilemmas, Anita continues her erratic time travels, which she has yet to master.

About the series

“Back to 15” is a delightful show tailored for teenagers, blending romance, adventure, and personal growth. This season adds the excitement of college parties to the mix. Anita faces a poignant challenge when she learns of a classmate’s untimely death and strives to prevent it.

Despite modest publicity, this Brazilian series has garnered a dedicated following, captivated by Anita’s charming adventures and time-bending escapades. The show endearingly transports us back to an era of slow internet and photocopiers, offering a nostalgic, retro feel. It’s a pleasant, entertaining series that neither offends nor misleads its audience.

Catch the third season on Netflix starting August 21.

Where to Watch “Back to 15”

Netflix

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“The Accident” Series on Netflix: A Heart-Wrenching and Dramatic Mexican Saga

“The Accident” is a Mexican Netflix series starring Ana Claudia Talancón, Sebastián Martínez, Erendira Ibarra and Alberto Guerra.

“The Accident” is a television series that commences with a gut-wrenching tragedy, leading the narrative down an overwhelmingly emotional path. The story brims with grief-stricken mothers and fathers bent on revenge, making it a feast for telenovela enthusiasts. However, it fails to offer anything groundbreaking in terms of aesthetic or cinematic innovation. Spanning ten episodes, the series has a distinct soap opera flavor, transforming the anguish of accident victims into a catalyst for a string of increasingly bizarre and grisly events.

Plot Overview

The plot unfolds with a harrowing accident at a child’s birthday party: a bouncy castle becomes unmoored, resulting in the tragic deaths of several children. What initially appears to be a mere accident soon unravels into a complex web of culpability, as the family discovers that someone neglected to secure the inflatable structure properly. This revelation sparks a relentless quest to find the person responsible, plunging everyone into a labyrinth of lies and suffering.

About the Series

This series is crafted specifically for soap opera aficionados, and while we harbor no ill will towards such shows, their appeal is undeniably strong. The storyline incessantly tugs at the viewers’ heartstrings, often drawing sharp distinctions between the affluent and the impoverished. Alongside the main narrative, secondary plots become entangled with business intrigues, romantic entanglements, and other subplots. “The Accident” navigates this territory with a sprawling network of characters driven by a thirst for vengeance, setting off a chain of disastrous events fueled by the loss of their children.

The dialogues are exactly what one would expect from such a genre, filled with emotionally charged situations designed to cater to the audience’s desire for melodrama. Ultimately, this series offers yet another opportunity for its intended viewers to immerse themselves in a narrative overflowing with tragedy and exaggerated circumstances, ensuring it will captivate its target audience.

Where to Watch “The Accident”

Netflix

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“Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War” Docuseries on Netflix: A Fresh Perspective on the Wild West and the Iconic OK Corral Gunfight

“Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War” is a docudrama narrated by Ed Harris starring Tim Fellingham. It is written by Patrick Reams, Stephen David, Henry Fitzherbert, and directed by Patrick Reams.

Netflix serves up a remarkable documentary experience with “Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War,” which delves into the life of Wyatt Earp and transports us back to the tumultuous era of the Wild West. This captivating series sheds light on prominent historical figures, including the founders of Wells Fargo and the influential banker J.P. Morgan, offering a treasure trove of intriguing narratives.

Ever wondered how the United States managed to settle the foreign debt incurred during the Civil War? “Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War” brims with fascinating anecdotes, presented in an engaging and trustworthy manner, effectively debunking numerous myths surrounding the Wild West. The series weaves together a plethora of stories, both entertaining and educational, providing a comprehensive overview of the events in Tombstone and the ensuing cowboy conflict.

Indeed, the gunfight at the OK Corral was a pivotal moment, not only for Wyatt Earp but also for the nation. This brief yet intense confrontation, lasting a mere half-minute and involving approximately thirty shots, had far-reaching consequences. Curious about its significance?

About the Documentary

This enthralling documentary, narrated in an unprecedented style, offers a novel perspective on the West and its underlying structures. Diverging from the typical Hollywood portrayals seen in films and TV series, “Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War” unveils the true events of that fateful day, elucidating why the shootout sparked a widespread conflict between cowboys—who essentially operated as the Wild West’s mafia—and how this turmoil escalated into a national issue, even reaching the President’s desk.

The documentary intricately ties the incident to the economic fragility of the dollar during that period, the involvement of London banks, the expansion of railroads, and vested economic interests. At the heart of this complex web is Wyatt Earp, one of the three Earp brothers, who, in his role as an outlaw hunter, became a central figure in a gunfight that not only altered the course of American history but also resonated across Europe.

Our Opinion

“Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War” is a masterfully crafted docudrama that combines high entertainment value with a compelling storyline. It stands out for offering a fresh and distinct viewpoint compared to conventional cinematic and television narratives. This documentary is essential viewing for anyone seeking to comprehend the profound impact of that historic gunfight and the broader context of the United States during that era.

We were thoroughly impressed by this production and highly recommend it. It provides a unique lens through which to understand the significance of the OK Corral shootout and the socio-economic conditions of the time. Don’t miss out on this enlightening and engrossing series.

Where to Watch “Wyatt Earp and The Cowboy War”

Netflix

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“Nice Girls” Movie on Netflix: An Amusing French Film with a Delightfully Retro Vibe

“Nice Girls” is a Netflix movie starring Alice Taglioni and Stéfi Celma. It is directed by Noémie Saglio.

Featuring two endearing and utterly unconventional girls, this film breaks away from the typical French high comedy stereotypes. Instead, it presents two police officers who neither dress in glamorous attire nor conform to expected behavior, creating humor through an unexpected, refreshing lens. The film is straightforward and charming, with the sole purpose of eliciting laughter.

About the Film

This comedy is unabashedly what it sets out to be: a comedy. Despite a backdrop involving corrupt cops, hackers, and more, “Nice Girls” finds its humor in witty dialogues and a slightly old-fashioned portrayal of characters who deftly navigate and subvert their own stereotypes. Imagine “Miami Vice” stripped of all its glamour, transforming its two leads into near parodies with the simple aim of providing a good time.

The film boasts clever dialogues, stunning landscapes, and a reasonably entertaining script. Within just a couple of minutes, it becomes evident that this film is not attempting to revolutionize cinema, nor does it intend to. It’s filled with absurdity and a touch of goofy humor (which we adore), compelling viewers to laugh at the antics of corrupt cops who drink on the job and ultimately know very little.

“Nice Girls” does not shine in technical prowess nor does it strive for aesthetic excellence. The true stars of the film are its dialogues, performances, and the lovable ineptitude of its characters, all working towards the singular goal of entertaining and amusing the audience.

Without causing offense, this film manages to poke fun at modern cinema and contemporary social norms. French cinema once again demonstrates its unique ability to laugh at itself, crafting a deeply French film imbued with irony and charm. The movie invites viewers to relax and simply enjoy the ride.

Our Opinion

“Nice Girls” is a straightforward and delightful film designed to provide an enjoyable experience with its slightly dated humor. While some may argue that humor from “back in the day” was superior, this film achieves its goal: delivering an hour and a half of fun in good company.

Where to Watch “Nice Girls”

Netflix

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Corey Helford Gallery Presents “Spirited Away” by Kai & Sunny

Downtown Los Angeles’ Corey Helford Gallery (CHG) is excited to unveil its forthcoming major solo exhibition, “Spirited Away,” showcasing an array of new works by the celebrated British artist Kai Clements of Kai & Sunny. Set to open on Saturday, September 21st, in the Main Gallery, this exhibition promises to elevate the artist’s oeuvre to unprecedented heights. Attendees can anticipate an impressive collection of over 25 new artworks, complemented by collaborative pieces with globally renowned artists Shepard Fairey and D*Face, a limited-edition silkscreen print release, a skateboard deck collaboration with Element Skateboards, and several other unique offerings.

Twisted Wave (acrylic painting on linen, 47 in x 47 in) by Kai & Sunny

Kai & Sunny have garnered international recognition for their meticulous and intricate creative process, which involves the creation of razor-thin colored lines using acrylic paint. “Spirited Away” will feature a series of captivating new abstract paintings on linen canvas, each showcasing Kai’s signature style in a mesmerizing display.

This new collection of meticulously crafted kinetic artworks weaves a narrative of adventure and the beauty found in embracing new experiences. The paintings evoke a sense of exploration and mystery, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of personal growth. These hypnotic and atmospheric pieces transport viewers to an otherworldly realm, encouraging them to embark on their own paths of self-discovery and to ponder the wonders of the unknown. The artworks, imbued with undertones of iridescent spirit-like imagery, offer fresh interpretations that convey serenity and energy. Through vibrant color, texture, shape, and movement, these artworks deliver the message that enduring challenges can lead to joy, freedom, and peace.

Reflecting on the upcoming exhibition, Kai shares: “I’m captivated by the power of the natural world, and with these works, I aimed to explore those precious unseen moments such as the frequencies within nature. My goal is to immerse the viewer in the forces of nature and use color, light, and movement to guide them through a journey of courage. At certain points in our lives, we may change, potentially losing parts of ourselves in the process. Even amidst such obstacles, there is hope on the horizon, and letting go enables us to move forward.”

Wild Flowers (acrylic painting on linen, 44.5 in x 33 in) by Kai & Sunny

Collaboration is a fundamental aspect of the artist’s practice, and a section of the “Spirited Away” solo show is dedicated to the theme of “UNITY.” This segment will feature collaborative works by Shepard Fairey, DFace, and Kai & Sunny. Their individual yet complementary styles have evolved over time alongside their friendships, which began during a shared college experience between DFace and Kai & Sunny and continued through an ongoing collaboration with Fairey since 2013. The artists draw inspiration from nature, relationships, and global politics, making their joint work a cohesive and compelling display.

In addition to the canvases, “Spirited Away” will also showcase two digital artworks created in collaboration with Fakery, an England-based 3D design and animation studio. These digital pieces are meticulously choreographed to an ambient soundtrack composed by the Emmy-nominated English duo Toydrum, featuring Pablo Clements and James Griffith. Furthermore, in conjunction with the exhibition, Kai & Sunny will release a limited-edition silkscreen print and two skateboard decks, produced in collaboration with Element Skateboards and featuring artwork from the show. These prints and skateboard decks will be available for purchase at the gallery on opening night, September 21st.

Open to the public and free of charge, “Spirited Away” will debut on Saturday, September 21st, from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm in the Main Gallery. Concurrently, the gallery will host a two-artist show featuring new works by Los Angeles-based artist Andrea Guzzetta, titled “Afterglow,” and Korean artist Kiseok Kim, titled “Plastic,” in Gallery 3. Both exhibitions will remain on view through October 26th, offering an enriching experience for all art enthusiasts.

Wild Obey Flower (silkscreen and acrylic sprayed icon on paper, 47.2 in x 33.5 in) by Kai & Sunny X Shepard Fairey

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“Terror Tuesday: Extreme” – A Thai Horror Anthology on Netflix: 8 Chilling Tales

“Terror Tuesday: Extreme” is an Thai horror series starring Pattaravadee Boonmeesup, Narupornkamol Chaisang and Chayanit Chansangavej among others.

Netflix unveils “Terror Tuesday: Extreme,” an anthology of eight spine-tingling stories crafted for horror enthusiasts. These tales promise and deliver an unadulterated dose of terror, showcasing everything from possessed dolls and sheer madness to blood-soaked scenes and spectral apparitions.

Visually and narratively meticulous, each hour-long episode unfolds at a deliberate pace, carefully developing characters while introducing fresh, haunting narratives. This series stands out for its cinematic quality, offering horror aficionados a blend of compelling stories and refined script and aesthetic craftsmanship.

The eight episodes of the series are inspired by stories told on the radio through one of the most popular Thai radio broadcasts.

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, the 20th, when “Terror Tuesday: Extreme” premieres on Netflix, promising a feast of horror that fans of the genre won’t want to miss.

Terror Tuesday: ExtremeList of EpisodesTerror Tuesday: Extreme1×01 Our Little Sister

In the wake of her sister’s passing, a young woman grapples with her sorrow, only to uncover that her mother has brought home a doll that appears eerily animated.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×02 Wedding Dress

Facing the possibility of losing her job, a tailor frantically works to modify an antique dress for a client’s wedding. However, she soon finds herself tormented by the garment’s sinister past.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×03 Ode to My Family

Upon discovering a sealed room in his new house, a young man uncovers a chilling tale that begins to weave its way into the fabric of his family’s existence, allowing the haunting shadows of history to infiltrate their lives.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×04 The Vow

An encounter with a vengeful goddess leaves two lovers with only one way to avoid certain death: divulge every secret they’ve been hiding from each other.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×05 Spectral Class

A teacher, searching for her absent student, finds herself drawn into the mysterious and surreal realm of the student’s eccentric family, where she becomes ensnared in a labyrinth of hallucinations and dark, occult practices.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×06 Girl Next Door

A man battling drug addiction becomes inexplicably captivated by his neighbor, who surreptitiously hands him a puzzling note filled with strange directives. Before long, he finds himself ensnared in a series of baffling occurrences.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×07 Dear Granny

After mysteriously disappearing, a grandmother unexpectedly reappears at home. However, her family soon discovers that she might not be the same person they once knew.

Terror Tuesday: Extreme1×08 Viral Curse

A mother is compelled to shield her young daughter as an unsettling tale from a radio broadcast starts to eerily reflect their own lives.

Where to Watch “Terror Tuesday: Extreme”

Netflix

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“Untold: The Murder of Air McNair” True Crime on Netflix: The Tragic Murder of NFL Legend Steve McNair

“The Murder of Air McNair” is a documentary of the sport series “Untold“. It is directed by Rodney Lucas and Taylor Ward.

Today, Netflix unveils a gripping new documentary within the series “Untold,” diving into the harrowing true crime story of the murder of NFL legend Steve “Air” McNair.

Who Was Steve McNair?

Steve McNair, affectionately known as Air McNair, carved his legacy as an extraordinary NFL quarterback from the moment he debuted in 1999. When the Houston Oilers transitioned to Tennessee and became the Tennessee Titans, they entrusted Steve with the pivotal role of quarterback. In 1999, under his leadership, the Titans boasted an undefeated home record and advanced to face the Rams in the Super Bowl. Despite a narrow 23-16 loss, Steve McNair emerged as an undeniable star, earning the title of co-MVP for the Super Bowl. His stellar performance solidified his status as an NFL legend.

The Year 2009: A Dark Chapter in Nashville, Tennessee

Steve McNair, known for his quiet demeanor and infectious laugh, was a genius on the football field. However, tragedy struck in Nashville, Tennessee, when two bodies were discovered: Steve McNair and his girlfriend, Sahel “Jenni” Kazemi. Steve, despite being married, had been involved with Jenni, who was also the ex-girlfriend of one of his teammates. Moreover, Steve was reportedly dating multiple women, fueling Jenni’s anger and jealousy.

The investigation unearthed the murder weapon and traced it back to a pawnshop, leading the police to uncover grim revelations.

About the Documentary

In this iteration, “Untold” pivots towards a chilling true crime narrative, spotlighting a murder borne out of jealousy. Each chapter of the series typically unveils the darker side of sports, and this episode delves into the tragic murder of Steve McNair.

“The Murder of Air McNair” meticulously chronicles Air McNair’s illustrious career while interviewing those who knew him intimately. Utilizing flashbacks and a cinematic, almost thriller-like editing style, the documentary weaves together two parallel tales: the rise of the great quarterback McNair and the heart-wrenching circumstances leading to his untimely death in 2009.

This sorrowful story unveils a clear perpetrator amidst the tragic events. Jenni Kazemi, Steve’s girlfriend, was never convicted; she took her own life shortly after the police discovered the murder weapon.

Thus unfolds another enthralling true crime saga on Netflix, premiering Tuesday, August 20.

Where to Watch “Untold: The Murder of Air McNair”

Netflix

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“Despicable Me 4”: The beloved saga that unites children and adults alike returns: the minions are as hilarious as ever

“Despicable Me 4” is an animation movie directed by Patrick Delage and Chris Renaud. With the voices of Steve Carell, Will Ferrell, Joey King and Sofia Vergara.

“Despicable Me 4” carries the essence of its predecessors: minimal script, maximum fun. And it’s not just us who are smitten; the Illumination Entertainment team has once again struck gold with their formula. They craft family movies that captivate the young audience while simultaneously charming parents with catchy tunes, nostalgic jokes, and plenty of nods to the past. This timeless humor, reminiscent of silent film characters, is universally appealing and brilliantly untranslatable—much like the minions themselves.

This film deliberately sidesteps a complex script, instead relying entirely on being consistently funny. Within the first five minutes, viewers are enveloped in its absurdity, relaxing and allowing themselves to be enchanted by these delightful characters. On a technical front, the film shines brightly with its spectacularly colorful animations, superb editing, and impeccable sound effects. The voices of Steve Carell and Will Ferrell add an extra layer of brilliance to the already delightful experience.

Despicable Me 4About the Movie

It’s a concoction of pure nonsense, as if Buster Keaton donned the yellow guise of Matt Groening, all set to the rhythm of K-pop, with the sole aim of making us laugh. These little yellow characters have successfully bridged the gap between generations. The older viewers find joy in the clever humor, while the younger ones are captivated by constant visual gags, pratfalls, grotesque gestures, and relentless effects.

Our Opinion

We absolutely adore it. Although it is branded as a family movie, it stands out as one of those rare gems that everyone enjoys. No segment of the audience leaves the theater without a smile, eager to return for another viewing. It’s a comedy festival of jokes, laughter, effects, and chases that brings joy to all, from the very first minute to the last.

In conclusion, “Despicable Me 4” is a delightful and technically brilliant film, a joyous romp that unites generations through humor and charm. It’s a movie that ensures everyone leaves the theater with a lighter heart and a happier spirit, eager for more cinematic magic.

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OceanXplorers: An Enchanting Series on the Mysteries of the Oceans and Their Inhabitants

“OceanXplorers” is a documentary series produced and narrated by James Cameron. It is produced by BBC and National Geogrphic.

James Cameron takes center stage in this spellbinding documentary transformed into a visual masterpiece, showcasing breathtaking images of whales, sharks, bears, and a myriad of other species. The renowned director of “Titanic” brings us six captivating episodes, unveiling the ocean’s hidden marvels in ways we’ve never imagined before.

The series introduces us to an innovative creation, the “OceanXplorer,” a submersible designed to explore ocean depths previously inaccessible. This technological marvel allows us to witness the ocean’s wonders as never seen before.

Accompanying us on this guided exploration are four intrepid scientists and adventurers: Asha de Vos, Zoleka Filander, Eric Stackpole, and Aldo Kane. These experts lead us through the ocean’s awe-inspiring realms, shedding light on the secrets beneath the waves.

About the Documentary Series

The series is composed of six episodes, each filmed in a distinct and breathtaking location: The Azores, the Dominican Republic, Burma, and even ventures to the North Pole, where we encounter majestic polar bears, or to Greenland, where we observe whales with lifespans reaching up to 400 years.

The true stars of this documentary are undoubtedly the animals themselves, with a particular focus on whales, orcas, and sharks. In the third episode, viewers will be astonished by the sight of a colossal prehistoric shark, still existing in today’s oceans.

James Cameron, with his deep and deliberate narration, imbues the documentary with the tranquility of the ocean, while simultaneously infusing it with a sense of grandeur and spectacle. His meticulous preparation for each scene and the captivating interest he imparts to every word enhance the viewing experience, elevating the documentary beyond expectations.

This documentary benefits from the unparalleled quality of National Geographic and BBC production, long-awaited by audiences intrigued by Cameron’s oceanic discoveries. For years, speculation has surrounded what Cameron might uncover in the ocean’s depths, and this series does not disappoint.

The highly anticipated first season of “OceanXplorers” is finally here, offering a visual and intellectual feast as we dive into the ocean’s depths to uncover its many wonders.

Tune in starting Monday, August 19 on Disney+ and Hulu, and prepare to be mesmerized by the ocean’s hidden treasures.

Where to Watch “OceanXplorers”

Disney+ and hulu.

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