Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 114

“Jackpot!” – A Hilarious and Wildly Absurd Comedy on Prime Video

“Jackpot!” is a Prime Video comedy movie starring Awkwafina and John Cena.

Prime Video presents “Jackpot!,” an uproarious and utterly chaotic comedy that pairs the comedic prowess of Awkwafina with the no-less-talented John Cena. This film is a riotous blend of humor and madness, making it a quintessential escape into dystopian hilarity centered around the concept of a lottery.

Plot

In a world teetering on the brink of chaos, capitalism has driven the middle class into a frantic scramble for wealth. The lottery, already a massive hit, has been given a diabolical twist: the lucky winner can be legally hunted and killed for the prize, transforming the jackpot into a deadly game of cat and mouse, and providing macabre entertainment for the masses.

By a stroke of misfortune, a young woman named Katie (played by Awkwafina) becomes entangled in this deadly game. She finds an unlikely ally in Noela Cassidy (portrayed by John Cena), who offers his protection and help to keep the winnings—albeit for a 10% cut of the prize.

About the Movie

“Jackpot!” is one of those delightfully absurd, nonsensical films where you’re invited to simply sit back and let the madness wash over you. Expect a wild ride filled with kicks, high-speed chases, off-color jokes, and a hilariously chaotic plot set against the backdrop of Los Angeles in the year 2030.

Could it be seen as a critique of capitalism? Absolutely. The film is peppered with ironic situations and sharp-witted lines that echo the satirical tone of “Idiocracy” (2006), another dystopian satire that envisioned a future devolved into a farcical TV spectacle for the intellectually bankrupt.

Don’t come looking for intricate plots or deeply developed characters; this is pure comedy, and that’s precisely what makes it enjoyable. The film stars two adept comedic actors: John Cena, the former wrestler who excels in playing the affable good guy, and Awkwafina, a comedian who has recently headlined several successful comedies. Both deliver performances that meet and exceed expectations, providing the audience with exactly what they came for: unadulterated entertainment and laughs.

Too silly for some? If you’re seeking any semblance of sense or realism in “Jackpot!,” you might want to give it a miss. The screenplay team made no effort to inject a dose of reality into this film. However, it does include intelligent elements and offers a scathing critique that mirrors the warnings of countless other dystopian narratives: our world is unraveling.

Our Opinion

Prepare yourself for a hysterical experience with this outrageous comedy. While it may be quickly forgotten once the credits roll and lacks any higher ambition, its sheer silliness makes it highly recommendable.

We found ourselves laughing uncontrollably at its sheer stupidity.

Enjoy the madness.

Where to Watch “Jackpot!”

Prime Video

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“Emily in Paris”: Season 4 Part 1 Now Streaming on Netflix

“Emily in Paris” is a romantic comedy series starring Lily Collins as Emily Cooper. With Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, Ashley Park, Lucas Bravo and Camille Razat among others. It is created by Darren Star.

The eagerly anticipated first part of the fourth season of the acclaimed series “Emily in Paris” has made its debut on Netflix, delivering five fresh episodes packed with the professional and romantic escapades of Emily and her companions. This latest installment continues to be one of Netflix’s standout hits in recent memory.

Season four introduces a plethora of new developments, including the much-anticipated resolution of the complex relationship between Emily and Alfie, alongside numerous other plotlines steeped in romance and emotional depth.

Plot Overview

“Emily in Paris” chronicles the life of an American woman who leaves her hometown of Chicago to chase her dreams of a high-profile fashion career in the dazzling city of Paris.

Series Background

The series is the brainchild of Darren Star, the creative genius behind iconic shows such as “Sex and the City” (1998), “Melrose Place” (1992), and “Beverly Hills, 90210” (1990). With a track record of producing television gold, Star has once again struck a chord with audiences, particularly younger viewers, through the intricate weave of love, career triumphs, and the journey to adulthood presented in “Emily in Paris.” Darren Star has a knack for crafting compelling narratives that resonate, and he employs this talent brilliantly yet again.

In a strategic move, Netflix has chosen to split the fourth season into two parts. Today, viewers can dive into the first five episodes, but they will have to exercise patience until September 12 to witness the conclusion of this Emmy Award-winning series for Best Comedy Series in 2021.

Mark your calendars and prepare to be enchanted by Emily’s latest adventures in the enchanting and perpetually stylish city of Paris, starting today.

Where to Watch “Emily in Paris”

Netflix

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“Kengan Ashura”: The eagerly anticipated second part of the second season of this Netflix anime series makes its grand debut today

“Kengan Ashura” is a Japanese animation series directed by Seiji Kishi based on the manga by Yabako Sandrovich.

Imagine a high-stakes battlefield where over 400 corporations and more than 1000 fighters collide in an electrifying Japanese wrestling spectacle. These companies pour millions into selecting their champions, who must navigate a series of preliminary rounds before they earn a coveted spot among the final 32 combatants. The triumphant company will seize control of Japan’s corporate landscape under the aegis of its formidable Great Leader.

In this arena, there are no specializations—anything goes. From assassins and sumo wrestlers to karate masters and every combat style you can conceive, the rule is simple: the last one standing on the canvas wins. No rules, no referees—just a raw, unadulterated quest to crown the strongest warrior.

Welcome to the Kengan Tournament, the most ferocious and unrelenting anime fighting series that Netflix has to offer.

About the series

This is pure fighting anime at its finest: a heady mix of visceral combat, diverse martial arts, and fantasy elements. It features those iconic pre-fight taunts, evocative flashbacks during battles, and the breathtaking slow-motion sequences that let you witness every blood-splattered punch and kick.

Expect relentless action punctuated with moments of humor. This is an unfiltered anime adaptation of Yabako Sandrovich’s manga, which has become a resounding hit on the streaming platform. Today, the saga reaches its climax with the premiere of the second part of the second season, bringing the total to 28 exhilarating episodes.

If you’re in search of outrageously intense action, “Kengan Ashura” is undeniably the series for you.

Since September last year, fans have been on tenterhooks, eagerly awaiting the conclusion of this gripping tale. But the wait is finally over—since August 15, the concluding episodes of the second season are now available on Netflix.

Where to Watch “Kengan Ashura”

Netflix

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Heartfelt Historical Drama: “One Life” Premieres on Prime Video

“One Life” is a movie starring Anthony Hopkins and John Flynn. With Helena Bonham Carter, Romola Garai and Lena Olin.

A profoundly emotional true story, “One Life,” is now streaming on Prime Video. The film showcases two towering pillars of excellence: the unparalleled performance of two-time Academy Award winner Anthony Hopkins and the hallmark quality of a BBC production, which invariably signifies top-tier craftsmanship.

The narrative of “One Life” inevitably draws comparisons to Steven Spielberg’s iconic “Schindler’s List” (1993). Spielberg’s film told the harrowing tale of a German industrialist who saved hundreds of Jewish children from certain death. Similarly, this film is set in Prague during the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, accompanied by evocative piano music reminiscent of John Williams’ unforgettable score.

Does this diminish the film’s impact? While it certainly doesn’t detract from the authenticity of the true story it depicts, it does invite scrutiny regarding its storytelling approach. In direct comparison, it may lack the cinematic grandeur and aesthetic aspirations that defined Spielberg’s masterpiece. One might argue that the filmmakers were well aware of the inevitable comparisons from the moment they chose to tell this story.

Plot Summary

The plot centers around a man who, during the chaos of World War II, orchestrates a series of train evacuations to rescue hundreds of children from Prague, securing them foster homes in London.

Film Details

“One Life” exemplifies BBC’s commitment to quality and historical accuracy. The film stars the legendary Anthony Hopkins in a key role, although the title character, Nicholas Winton, is predominantly portrayed by John Flynn. Flynn’s performance captures the essence of Winton’s heroic endeavors, making him the focal point of the film’s narrative.

The film is replete with emotionally charged scenes designed to elicit tears and evoke deep empathy from its audience. It constantly reminds viewers of the harrowing experiences these children faced, urging them to feel the weight of their suffering. As a film, it excels technically—from stellar acting to meticulous set design, sound, and editing. However, it’s also evident that “One Life” wasn’t conceived with the intention of breaking new ground artistically. Instead, it aims to resonate on an emotional level rather than an intellectual or aesthetic one.

The film thrives on its powerful storytelling and strong performances. It is a quintessential BBC production: of impeccable quality but lacking in cinematic innovation and vigor.

Viewers can start streaming “One Life” on Prime Video beginning Wednesday, August 14.

Where to Watch “One Life”

Prime Video

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“The Bear” Season 3: The culinary world’s most captivating and stylish series makes a triumphant return to Disney+ and hulu

“The Bear” is a series starring Jeremy Allen White. With Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri and Lionel Boyce. It is created by Christopher Storer. The third season is available on hulu from August 14th.

If you haven’t indulged in it yet, now is the perfect time to dive in, because “The Bear” undoubtedly stands as one of the finest series you can stream today. With a visually stunning approach that artfully blends the classic with the contemporary, and aesthetic boldness with timeless elegance, “The Bear” continues to captivate discerning audiences. This seamless fusion of life and culinary artistry will undoubtedly mesmerize you once more in its highly anticipated third season.

Distributed by FX through Disney+ and Hulu, this series excels in its aesthetic appeal, intricate plot, and rich character development. It masterfully combines elements of comedy, realism, and the personal and professional growth of its protagonist, “Carmy” (Jeremy Allen White), along with his eclectic group of colleagues. The show offers an immersive look into the lives of chefs and those intertwined with the vibrant world of restaurants, creativity, and flavors.

“The Bear” possesses all the ingredients to enthrall its audience: moments of humor and drama, but most importantly, characters who feel authentically real. These characters transcend simple moral dichotomies; they are neither purely good nor evil, neither overly ambitious nor mundane. The series mirrors the complexities of life itself while simultaneously infusing its visuals with a poetic quality and the introspective dreams of its protagonist and those around him.

The show is both riveting and thoughtfully paced, delivering its narrative in half-hour episodes that are packed with substance yet never overwhelming. Each episode of this third season is a whirlwind of events, maintaining a brisk yet reflective tempo that borders on the transcendent. The frenetic energy and rhythm of a bustling kitchen are skillfully interwoven with moments of serene calm and artistic flair.

As one of the finest series on television, “The Bear” makes its return to Disney+ and Hulu on August 14. Prepare to be enchanted.

Bon appétit.”

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Korean Thriller “The Tyrant” Debuts on Hulu and Disney+: A Chilling Tale of Viral Catastrophe

“The Tyrant” is a new 4-episodes mini-series written and directed by Park Hoon-jung. It stars Cha Seung-won, Kim Seon-ho and Kim Kang-woo. It is available on hulu since August 14th.

South Korea continues to solidify its status as a cinematic powerhouse, and the latest testament to this is “The Tyrant.” This thrilling new series, now available on Hulu and Disney+, delves into the terrifying premise of a stolen virus with the potential to annihilate humanity.

“The Tyrant” excels in every facet of production, from its breathtaking action sequences to its superb cinematography, costume design, and pacing. The series propels viewers into a whirlwind of intrigue, combining heart-pounding action with a multifaceted international plot. Although the narrative is centered on Korean characters, it resonates with a universal appeal.

Engrossing Action and Intrigue

The storyline is packed with intense action scenes, weaving a tale of spies, betrayals, and deceptions. The plot kicks off with a deadly virus being stolen from South Korea. An American agent is then tasked with the critical mission of preventing the virus from spreading globally.

About the Series

“The Tyrant” is distributed by Hulu and Disney+, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience. From the very first episode, viewers are treated to outstanding photography, meticulous set design, and expertly crafted framing.

The series revolves around undercover agents and criminal organizations vying for control of the virus, all while manipulating public fear of a viral outbreak. This time, the threat is a particularly lethal virus that spreads through water, adding an extra layer of urgency and dread.

Spanning just four episodes, “The Tyrant” manages to build tension and intrigue with each installment. While the series may experience a slight dip in action midway through, it regains momentum towards the end, delivering a satisfying conclusion. Filmed in dark, moody tones, the series features intelligent dialogue and a well-rounded ensemble cast, each character intricately connected to the virus plot and the ensuing speculation.

The script is sharp, the pacing impeccable, and the series masterfully maintains viewer interest throughout. Though brief, “The Tyrant” leaves a lasting impression and whets the appetite for more.

This captivating mini-series is now available in its entirety on Hulu and Disney+. We highly recommend it and hope you enjoy every suspenseful moment.

Where to Watch “The Tyrant”

hulu and Disney+.

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“Bad Monkey” Series on Apple TV+: The Ideal Series for Vince Vaughn

“Bad Monkey” is a new Apple TV+ thriller series starring Vince Vaughn and Michelle Monaghan. It is created by Bill Lawrence and it is available since August 13th. Every Wednesday, a new episode.

Vince Vaughn takes the lead in this dark comedy set against the backdrop of a seemingly idyllic Florida paradise, revealing a tale rife with corruption. This delightful comedy embodies all the hallmarks of Apple TV+’s offerings: biting irony, sharp humor, and, above all, top-notch production quality.

This series showcases Vaughn’s flair for performance, but it also stands out as a fascinating production that deftly captures the essence of Florida with wit and insight.

Plot Overview

The story revolves around a former detective who finds himself entangled in a corruption scandal in Florida.

About the Series

At the heart of the series is its undeniable star: Vince Vaughn. Regardless of your opinion on this actor, his presence undeniably shapes the narrative: his physicality, his distinctive character, and his unique sense of humor. Vaughn, an actor with an inherent talent for comedy, is a significant draw for audiences, especially in the United States. In “Bad Monkey,” he finds a role tailored to his strengths, resulting in a series that is both engaging and amusing, with a touch of the absurd and the outrageous.

Are you in the mood for a blend of thriller and dark comedy? “Bad Monkey” delivers on all fronts, combining intelligent humor with a compelling storyline that balances comedy with a gripping tale of crime and corruption.

While the series has its moments of zaniness, the humor remains controlled and sophisticated, offering more smiles than outright laughter. “Bad Monkey” may not be groundbreaking or entirely original, but it expertly weaves together its various elements to create a unique and distinctive show.

The series adeptly captures the acerbic humor of Carl Hiaasen’s novel, presenting a narrative filled with crime, corruption, and a healthy dose of humor—making it an ideal watch for the summer.

Where to Watch “Bad Monkey”

Apple TV+

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Daughters: A Heartfelt Father-Daughter Dance in a Correctional Facility

“Daughters” is a documentary directed by Angela Patton and Natalie Rae.

What is life like for the daughters of prison inmates? In Washington D.C., a unique event has been organized, allowing several young girls to attend a dance within the confines of a correctional facility, giving them the precious opportunity to spend a few hours with their incarcerated fathers.

“Daughters” is a poignant documentary that delves into the lives of four such girls, shedding light on their experiences and challenges as they navigate life without their fathers. This emotionally charged film explores not only the struggles of these young girls but also the efforts of their parents as they prepare for the dance through various conversations and activities, offering insight into the prison system and how innovative initiatives aim to mitigate, to some extent, the profound hardships of their circumstances.

Above all, “Daughters” is a deeply moving documentary that captures the agony of those left behind, the heartbreak of separation, and the devastating repercussions that this divide brings. The film is meticulously crafted on a cinematic level, featuring powerful aesthetics and outstanding photography that emphasizes the lives of the four girls and how they cope with their loss.

About the Documentary

“Daughters” is not a documentary that caters to everyone, yet it masterfully blends cinematic excellence with the raw emotions of the situation. It is a film that highlights social realities, portraying the harsh conditions faced by both the inmates and their families, and how prolonged waiting and distance can irrevocably damage the father-daughter relationship.

This documentary serves as a crucial societal awareness tool, presenting the harsh realities in their most unfiltered and genuine form while also striving to deeply engage the audience in the emotional plight of the true victims – the daughters of the prisoners. It is a hard-hitting, emotional, and somber documentary.

Available for streaming on Netflix starting August 14.

Where to Watch “Daughters”

Netflix

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American Murder: Laci Peterson – Netflix’s New True Crime Documentary: Reopening the Scott Peterson Case and Renewing Controversy

“American Murder: Laci Peterson” is a documentary series directed by Skye Borgman about the murder of Laci Peterson and her husband, Scott Peterson.

Scott Peterson was convicted more than two decades ago for the murder of his pregnant wife, Laci Peterson. Despite the conviction, Scott has persistently maintained his innocence, fueling ongoing debates and discussions about the case.

The tragic incident unfolded in Modesto, California, on Christmas Eve in 2002, when Scott reported Laci missing. According to Scott, Laci had taken their Golden Retriever for a walk, but the dog returned home alone, with no trace of Laci. The Petersons alerted the media and posted flyers in a desperate attempt to find her, which quickly turned the disappearance into a national media sensation.

From the very beginning, the police directed their suspicions toward Scott. A thorough investigation exposed that Scott’s life was far from the picture-perfect image he portrayed. He refused to take a polygraph test and was evasive during the investigation, raising more red flags. It was soon revealed that Scott had been living a double life and was secretly involved with another woman. But the crucial question remained: Did this double life make him guilty of his wife’s disappearance?

When Laci’s body washed ashore in San Francisco Bay, the evidence seemed overwhelmingly against Scott. Facing intense media scrutiny, Scott gave multiple interviews, but his public declarations of innocence did little to sway public opinion. The situation worsened as more incriminating evidence surfaced, solidifying the public’s belief in his guilt.

Even after being found guilty in court, Scott Peterson has continued to assert his innocence, keeping the debate alive to this day.

About the Documentary

Netflix’s new documentary, titled “American Murder: Laci Peterson,” revisits this haunting case, employing a storytelling formula that has proven successful in previous true crime series about Rosa Peral and Yara Gambirasio. This documentary presents all viewpoints, including Scott’s, alongside testimonies from police inspectors who handled the investigation and from Laci’s family members.

Sharon Rocha, Laci’s mother, provides a poignant account of her feelings two decades after the events, adding a deeply emotional layer to the narrative.

While some may criticize the documentary as another morbid attempt to captivate audiences by stirring up controversy, there is no denying the public’s fascination with true crime stories. Television networks and streaming platforms continue to meet this demand by presenting sensational cases that provoke questions about judicial resolutions.

The formula of reexamining old cases and questioning their outcomes remains effective, and Netflix seems adept at applying it to new cases regularly. This approach keeps the audience engaged and fuels ongoing discussions.

The three episodes of this series are not only captivating but also present multiple perspectives, turning a tragic and complex case into a form of morbid entertainment. Ultimately, this is precisely what the public craves, and Netflix delivers it expertly.

Where to Watch “American Murder: Laci Peterson”

Netflix

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Gok Wan and Norman Jay to Light Up Alexandra Palace This August Bank Holiday

Gok Wan

As summer lingers on, Alexandra Palace is gearing up to make the most of the remaining warm weeks by hosting a spectacular August bank holiday celebration. This year, the iconic north London venue will come alive with two sensational outdoor music events, featuring renowned DJs Gok Wan and Norman Jay. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Palace, these events promise to be the highlight of the season. Are you planning to feature any of these in your bank holiday activity round-ups?

On Saturday, August 24th, the multi-talented broadcaster and DJ Gok Wan will bring his exuberant party, Isolation Nation, to the picturesque Ally Pally Terrace. Following his triumphant, sold-out performances at the Roundhouse and KOKO, Gok is set to deliver an unforgettable experience. Joining him on the line-up are special guest Smokin Jo, along with Angel Lee, Leroy Fish, and the Mas Que Nada Bros. Attendees can look forward to an electrifying mix of soulful and uplifting house music, paired with an afternoon and evening of sunlit dancing. To complete the festive atmosphere, there will be a delectable selection of street food, refreshing ice-cold cocktails, and well-stocked bars, making for an ideal bank holiday soirée.

Norman Jay

The festivities continue on Sunday, August 25th, as the legendary Norman Jay MBE returns to Alexandra Palace with his iconic Good Times Soundsystem bus for an all-day, open-air bank holiday party. The stage, set against the panoramic views of London from Ally Pally, will feature the famous red Routemaster bus. Norman Jay and his friends will guide attendees through a diverse musical journey encompassing house, rare groove, jazz, disco, hip-hop, and drum & bass. So, gather your friends, don your best dancing shoes, and prepare for a blissful day of summer revelry.

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