Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 122
July 19, 2024
“Sweet Home” Season 3: The Return of Netflix’s Most Monstrous Korean Series
“Sweet Home” is a Netflix series starring Song Kang, Go Min-si and Lee Jin-wook.
The South Korean science fiction series “Sweet Home” is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! As Netflix’s most monstrous series, it stands out for its imaginative scenarios, breakneck pace, and a myriad of horrifying creatures.
The South Korean entertainment industry has successfully captivated a new audience with their unique productions from K-pop to Netflix series. These productions have introduced distinctive storytelling styles and narratives to viewers around the world. “Sweet Home” reaffirms this trend by breaking conventional standards. Its third season presents a thrilling narrative full of special effects, closely resembling the pacing and narrative style of video games.
The series draws inspiration from the theme of monstrous creatures attacking Earth, popularized by the 1993 video game DOOM. This theme has undergone numerous reinterpretations and iterations since becoming an icon of popular culture in the ’90s. Over 30 years later, the TV series “Sweet Home” represents a cinematic evolution of this theme, displaying it in an ultra-fast narrative pace. The series integrates influences from countless video games, comics, and preceding series, pushing narrative boundaries in an enticing manner.
At its core, the story revolves around mad scientists who inadvertently create a monstrous race that is now threatening humanity. Amidst this chaos, the series is overflowing with special effects, oozing with blood, and brimming with an apocalyptic tone. The series is also filled with ominous music and a visually striking experience: constant changes in scenes, battles, blood, and plenty of monsters. It provides an outstanding visual spectacle despite its script, delivering a first-rate visual experience.
“Sweet Home” thrives on chaos, a constant change in scenes, and a focus on making an impact in every scene, pushing the adrenaline of its youthful audience to its limits. The series is designed to hook younger viewers with its impactful sequences, leaving little room for reflection.
In our opinion, this series takes new trends and weaves them into an incredible mix: zombies, monsters, apocalypse, and all the excellence of the Korean industry. With its rhythm and understanding of youthful tastes, it is successfully reviving and reeling in a new generation of viewers hooked on video games and series.
Where to Watch “Sweet Home”The Cast
송강 (Song Kang)
Lee Jin-wook (이진욱)
Go Min-si (고민시)
Lee Si-young (이시영)The post “Sweet Home” Season 3: The Return of Netflix’s Most Monstrous Korean Series appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
Skywalkers: A Love Story: A Netflix’s Tale of Love, Risk, and Trust on the World’s Highest Buildings
“Skywalkers: A Love Story” is a Netflix documentary directed by Jeff Zimbalist and Maria Bukhonina.
Ivan Beerkus and Angela Nikolau shared a common passion: climbing the world’s highest buildings to take photographs and share them with their followers. This profession, known as “rooftopping,” has been beautifully captured in Netflix’s documentary “Skywalkers: A Love Story.”
This is more than just a story about Ivan and Angela, professional rooftop climbers, and their thrilling ascents. It is about how their shared profession brought them together, forming a unique pair whose adventures delighted followers on social media platforms worldwide.
Following the duo’s journey from their first meeting to their final significant ascent during the Football World Cup finale, “Skywalkers: A Love Story” takes viewers on a journey across the globe. From China to Bangkok, Paris and dozens of cities in-between, the documentary portrays Angela and Ivan’s explorations, and gradually, their love story.
Skywalkers: A Love StoryAbout “Skywalkers: A Love Story”One might expect “Skywalkers: A Love Story” to be a conventional narrative about the perilous nature of scaling the world’s tallest buildings, about bypassing security measures, or about the physical preparation involved in this activity. But, in essence, it is a love story. It’s about the evolution of Angela and Ivan as a couple, who, amidst the risk, learned to trust each other deeply.
The documentary beautifully illustrates the paradox between the inherent insecurity of climbing buildings and the security that their relationship derived from this risk.
The Lovers: Ivan Beerkus and Angela NikolauAngela hails from the world of the circus, while Ivan was Russia’s most famous rooftopper. When sponsors suggested Ivan include a female partner in his next mission, he immediately approached Angela, and she did not hesitate.
Their relationship is a partnership where both contribute unique talents. Ivan brought his climbing experience, while Angela added her artistic flair and performance skills.
Our Opinion“Skywalkers: A Love Story” is a beautifully crafted documentary that masterfully combines stunning visuals with an even more compelling story of love, understanding, and trust. It’s a departure from standard documentarian fare, making beauty and risk its main protagonists. It’s a must-watch that shouldn’t be missed.
Where to Watch “Skywalkers: A Love Story”The post Skywalkers: A Love Story: A Netflix’s Tale of Love, Risk, and Trust on the World’s Highest Buildings appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
“Find Me Falling” – A Romantic Film on Netflix: Another Formulaic Offering in an Idyllic Setting
“Find Me Falling” is a Netflix romantic comedy starring Harry Connick Jr. and Agni Scott.
Every so often, Netflix seemingly ‘surprises’ us with a love story that, coincidentally or not, bears a curious resemblance to its predecessors. It invariably involves two individuals finding their common path thanks to the enchantments of love. Characteristically, a city tourist finds refuge in a smaller but far more charming and appealing location. This is a formula that persists in a specific genre of romantic films, and they always strike a chord with their target audience who consume them with unwavering devotion.
“Find Me Falling” dutifully conforms to the norms of this ‘touristy-romantic’ genre. While it may not satisfy the critics or win any Oscar, it caters perfectly to its devoted audience.
PlotlineA renowned singer buys a house on an island in Cyprus, oblivious to the local legend. His property overlooks a cliff infamous for suicides. Here, he meets a mysterious and enchanting singer who reawakens his zest for life.
The Cast: Harry Connick Jr. and Agni ScottLeading the film is a star of the music world, Harry Connick Jr., playing, fittingly, a music star. He fits the role of a mature and seductive man who has seen brighter days in music. His heydays may be behind him, but much like his real-life persona, he continues to be a star, just not topping charts or trending.
Agni Scott takes on the female role in the film. Despite having a handful of films under her belt, she hasn’t made a significant breakthrough as a leading lady. She plays Sia, a singer barely making ends meet but with a big personality.
Our Verdict on “Find Me Falling”This film, devoid of any originality, merely milks the well-worn ‘touristy-romantic’ formula. It is neither better nor worse than the scores of films that have preceded it – just another one to add to the list.
Where to Watch “Find Me Falling”The Cast
Harry Connick Jr.
Ali Fumiko Whitney
Agni Scott
Clarence SmithThe post “Find Me Falling” – A Romantic Film on Netflix: Another Formulaic Offering in an Idyllic Setting appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
July 18, 2024
“My Spy: The Eternal City”: An Entertaining Action Movie… for the Younger Audience
“My Spy: The Eternal City” is a Prime Video action comedy movie starring Dave Bautista. With Chloe Coleman and Kristen Schaal.
What makes a good action movie? Is it the explosive stunts, charismatic heroes or the suspenseful plot? To most, it is a cocktail of all these elements, well shaken, not stirred. Central to this discourse is “My Spy: The Eternal City,” a sequel to a fairly well-received action movie that treads this fine line, appealing to a youthful demographic while maintaining an action-packed narrative.
My Spy: The Eternal CityPerformance Rundown: Dave Bautista in Prime TimeThe film features Dave Bautista, a quintessential “action man” who, at certain points in their careers, knows how to blend family-friendly content with action. This blend often garners a favourable box office response and a decent product. Nothing more, nothing less.
SynopsisThe plot follows J.J., a seasoned CIA agent who must accompany Sophie, a teenager travelling to Rome with her school choir. Once there, they find themselves embroiled in a complex intrigue threatening the Vatican itself.
Prime Video’s Take on the GenreThe movie is part of Prime Video’s ongoing venture into genre films and building its family-friendly catalog. As we’ve seen in recent months, they have a knack for family action comedies, at least in terms of production. In this instance, they have Dave Bautista headlining the sequel to a movie that had long faded from memory.
Similar to the first installment, “My Spy: The Eternal City” is one of those movies that, while being decent in all aspects of production, offers nothing extravagant or remotely original. It’s an utterly generic film that solely fulfills its anticipated mandate. Yes, it does deliver good action scenes, but it’s a movie that doesn’t linger in the viewer’s memory.
Dave Bautista delivers a decent performance in a role that doesn’t require him to showcase his acting depth. He is a commendable actor, capable of playing characters in various genres, but these roles do not necessarily enhance his dramatic credentials.
Verdict“My Spy: The Eternal City” is a film that doesn’t deviate from its script or structure. It is an acceptable genre film in a genre that has been overdone, lacking any surprises. However, it fulfills the expectation of an action-comedy movie, consistently delivering its humor and suspense through charming characters and a spy-school setting.
Where to Watch “My Spy: The Eternal City”The Cast
Dave BautistaDave Bautista is an American actor, retired professional wrestler, and former mixed martial artist. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Drax the Destroyer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers: Infinity War. Prior to his acting career, Bautista was a six-time world champion in professional wrestling with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
Chloe Coleman
Ken Jeong
Kristen Schaal
Anna FarisThe post “My Spy: The Eternal City”: An Entertaining Action Movie… for the Younger Audience appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
“Cobra Kai” Season 6: All Good Things Must Come to an End
“Cobra Kai” is a series starring Ralph Macchio and William Zabka.
After six captivating seasons, “Cobra Kai” finally draws to a close with a two-part sixth season. Today, the first part premieres, featuring the reuniting of Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence in the new dojo, preparing their troops for the upcoming championship.
“Cobra Kai” is now a legendary series in the realm of contemporary television. Originating from the iconic characters of “The Karate Kid” (1984), this show has witnessed a remarkable resurgence. Although it may not possess the same vigorous energy or freshness as before, it undoubtedly continues to retain its loyal fanbase.
And we are eagerly anticipating its finale.
However, we will have to hold our excitement until the 25th of November, when the second part of this sixth season premieres.
In the meantime, sit back and enjoy the first five episodes on Netflix.
Where to Watch “Cobra Kai”The Cast
Ralph Macchio
Courtney Henggeler
William Zabka
Xolo MariduenaThe post “Cobra Kai” Season 6: All Good Things Must Come to an End appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
“Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper”: A Uniquely Hilarious Tale From Bollywood Now Streaming On Netflix
“Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” is a Netflix TV series starring Manav Kaul, Tillotama Shome, Faisal Malik and Naina Sareen.
“Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” is an all-out comedy that comes to us from India. Drawing parallels with Guy Ritchie’s style and Deuce Bigalow’s humor, “Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” is an ensemble comedy filled with eccentric, colorful, and occasionally brilliant scenarios that leave you with no choice but to laugh… or switch to another series.
It’s a colorful mélange of characters, each more outlandish than the next, leading to humorous situations and a surrealistic sense of humor with an underlying romantic plot. It is amusing to the core.
Plot OverviewAs a result of an economic crisis, an accountant is forced to change his job and become a gigolo. In this new chapter of his life, he intertwines with a man who also juggles two jobs: a food business and a company that targets women who hire gigolos.
About the SeriesThe series is fun, eccentric, and refreshing. Its editing may not be at a breakneck speed, but the script is. In every sequence, there is a humorous situation and, in each episode, a thousand outlandish scenarios.
“Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” is a vibrant comedy that is 100% Bollywood: a mix of gangsters, dances, romance, and a sort of social critique while also being a portrayal of a society deeply concerned about money. Through its paced script, “Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” unabashedly discusses corruption, bribes, mafia, cheating spouses, bad husbands, murders… it’s this unique Bollywood blend that makes this industry something distinctive, eccentric, and special: a thousand stories rolled into one and a thousand countries merging into one complex human and cinematic ecosystem.
“Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” is a series that is many things all at once but aims for only one thing: to entertain. And it achieves that in its own way, perhaps not with a Hollywood budget, but it makes the most of what it has and always manages to extract a fun and positive side of life.
Our TakeWhile it may not be the best production in the world or have the deepest script, “Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper” is a series that, in its 9 episodes, always manages to bring a smile to our faces thanks to its quirky and endearing characters.
Enjoy the ride.
Where to Watch “Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper”The Cast
Manav Kaul
Faisal Malik
Tillotama Shome
Naina SareenThe post “Tribhuvan Mishra CA Topper”: A Uniquely Hilarious Tale From Bollywood Now Streaming On Netflix appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
“Master of the House” on Netflix: Mystery, Wealth, Inheritance and a Riddle Waiting to be Unveiled
“Master of the House” is a Netflix series starring Narilya Gulmongkolpech, Teerapong Liaorakwong, Thanavate Siriwattanakul and Nus Nusba Punnakanta. It is directed by Sivaroj Kongsakul.
Tucked away within the labyrinth of Netflix offerings, lies an intriguing tale of a wealthy Thai family, its cache of precious jewels and diamonds and a mystery that begins to unravel with the sudden, suspicious death of the family’s patriarch. “Master of the House” is a series that encapsulates intrigue, mystery and the delicate dynamics of familial relationships mired in jealousy, inheritance squabbles and the lure of abundant wealth. The series delivers what it promises and more, adding a unique, poetic touch to its narrative.
Storyline:The patriarch of a family, seated at the helm of an enormous diamond business, passes away, leaving behind an ensuing power struggle for the family fortune. His recent marriage to the family’s maid, who now faces hostility from the potential inheritors, adds an unexpected twist to the tale.
About the Series:“Master of the House” transcends the typical suspense-filled narratives about great fortunes and sibling rivalries. The show harbors an artistic and poetic element that makes it all the more fascinating, intriguing and mysterious. The series circles around its protagonist, Kaimook, played by Narilya Gulmongkolpech, a maid who unexpectedly becomes the magnate’s wife. Plotlines of envy, greed, and spoiled heirs further complicate her story. The series is reminiscent of the “chaebol” Korean narratives, encapsulated in a Thai setting, with strong parallels to shows like Falcon Crest.
The storytelling in “Master of the House” defies the norm, frequently resorting to a structure of flashbacks that create a unique and mysterious ambiance. The series explores stories of servants and lords, and their stark differences, often siding with the servants. Class disparity resonates throughout the show, and the tales of maids who ascend to become the household’s mistress have always been popular on television. The show oscillates between the poetic and the mundane, with the TV aspect winning out, along with power intrigues and battles over the wealth and control of the magnate’s enterprise.
Our Take:“Master of the House” while original in many aspects, is inherently limited by its genre, often delivering exactly what the viewer expects without pushing the envelope.
Where to Watch “Master of the House”The Cast
Narilya Gulmongkolpech
Thanavate Siriwattanakul
Teerapong Liaorakwong
Nus Nusba PunnakantaThe post “Master of the House” on Netflix: Mystery, Wealth, Inheritance and a Riddle Waiting to be Unveiled appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON – A Gripping New Chapter to an Acclaimed Saga
Boasting a legacy that stretches back two decades, HBO Original’s CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON is set to raise the stakes in television drama. The series, premiering on Max on August 25th, promises to keep audiences spellbound with its thrilling narrative and compelling characters.
The new series, produced by O2 Filmes, takes place two decades after the internationally acclaimed film, presenting a new chapter in the riveting saga. Revealed through six weekly episodes, CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON explores the complex lives of its characters, setting the stage for a gripping narrative that encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of the characters we’ve come to know and love.
The plot unravels around the early 2000s, a tumultuous time that rekindles the strife in Cidade de Deus following the release of a young drug dealer from prison. Caught in the crossfire between drug traffickers, militias, and public authorities, the residents must unite to combat their oppressors. Their journeys reflect a collective endeavor to break free from this oppressive cycle and reclaim their city.
The series seamlessly integrates flashbacks from the film, offering audiences a nostalgic recall of the characters’ pasts. These poignant recollections serve to enrich the narrative, offering deeper insight into the nuanced lives of the protagonists.
Featuring an impressive ensemble cast, CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON brings back many familiar faces, alongside a host of new talent. Esteemed actors such as Alexandre Rodrigues, Roberta Rodrigues, Thiago Martins, Sabrina Rosa, and many more grace the small screen once more, their performances integrated with debuting talents from Rio de Janeiro communities, amplifying the authenticity of the narrative.
CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON is a testament to the collaborative efforts of a dedicated team, headed by producers Andrea Barata Ribeiro and Fernando Meirelles, co-producers Cris Abi and Gustavo Gontijo, with Aly Muritiba at the helm, directing, and Bruno Costa acting as second director. The subtitles are crafted by a remarkable team of writers, setting the stage for an unforgettable viewing experience.
Anchoring the project from Warner Bros. Discovery end are executive producers Mariano Cesar, Anouk Aaron and Mônica Albuquerque, lending their creative vision and wealth of experience to the HBO Original Series.
CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON invites viewers to embark on an adrenaline-charged journey, proving once again that the City of God saga remains as enthralling as ever. Tune in on August 25th on HBO Latino, or stream it globally on Max – the fight is about to begin.
The post CITY OF GOD: THE FIGHT RAGES ON – A Gripping New Chapter to an Acclaimed Saga appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
July 17, 2024
Historic Emmy Nomination: Trailblazing “SHOGUN” series with Hiroyuki Sanada Sets Record in the Music Category
The Emmy Awards, known as the apex of recognitions in the television industry, announced their nominations on July 17th, with the Disney-produced series “SHOGUN”, starring and produced by Hiroyuki Sanada, securing multiple nominations – an achievement that has raised eyebrows across the globe.
One notable inclusion is the nomination in the music category, marking a rare feat for the Japanese television industry. The series has been nominated in two music categories – Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Original Dramatic Score) and Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music. This is the first time a nomination has been granted to a score intertwined with traditional Japanese music and Gagaku, a type of Japanese classical music.
Composer Taro Ishida, who undertook music arrangement for the series, is drawing considerable attention for his work on “SHOGUN”. He said, “Along with the storyline, I want viewers to pay attention to the music that has been intricately woven into the series”.
About Taro IshidaTaro Ishida, based in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture, is a composer known for his rare expertise in Gagaku. A graduate of Tokyo University of the Arts, Ishida has been involved in a wide range of creative activities, including composing space music for art exhibitions and soundtracks for major corporate PR videos. He began composing Gagaku about ten years ago, and since then, he has been continuously expanding his musical activities.
Production of “SHOGUN” SoundtrackThe production of the “SHOGUN” soundtrack spanned over two years. The soundtrack was created under the direction of award-winning composer Atticus Ross, along with a team of composers in Los Angeles. Ishida was tasked with arranging and recording a variety of Gagaku and traditional Japanese music.
Recording took place throughout Japan, with dozens of traditional Japanese musicians involved. Arrangements and recording times were discussed remotely with Atticus Ross, Leopold Ross, and Nick Chuba, while performance of Gagaku was entrusted to members of the leading Gagaku organization, “Reigakusha”.
On Arrangement with Gagaku and Japanese Traditional MusicIshida has highlighted that he focused on expressing the most vibrant sounds of the instruments by using only the melody of simple classical tunes. His approach often broke the mold, fusing instruments from different eras and intentionally leaving slight discrepancies in the rhythm and sound.
Ishida also recalls, “Atticus Ross and his team were not bound by the usual conventions of Japanese traditional music, which in a good sense, allowed us to explore a new ground.”
Gagaku and Japanese Traditional Music on the World StageThis Emmy nomination is a testament to the universality of traditional Japanese music and Gagaku, demonstrating its ability to resonate with audiences worldwide. It is our hope that this international recognition will pave the way for Japanese music to soar further onto the world stage.
While the final award results will be announced on September 16, 2024, the nomination alone is an achievement of significant value, and we are proud to share this news with you ahead of time.
The post Historic Emmy Nomination: Trailblazing “SHOGUN” series with Hiroyuki Sanada Sets Record in the Music Category appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
“T・P BON”: The Japanese Anime Series Making a Smart Comeback on Netflix with Season 2
“T・P BON (Time Patrol Bon)” is a Netflix animation series based on the manga by F. Fujio Fujiko.
“T・P BON”, the Japanese anime series adored by the brightest children is making its triumphant return to Netflix with a second season. This distinctive series seamlessly blends retro animation with a sci-fi narrative. It offers an interactive platform where viewers can learn about history, mythology and even quantum physics in an enjoyable and animated way. However, it might be necessary to provide your kids with a rudimentary understanding of space-time, quantum physics and wormholes to fully appreciate the series.
If your children aren’t overwhelmed with this wealth of knowledge, then they are perfectly prepared for the thrilling second season of “T・P BON”, a quintessential Japanese animated experience on Netflix.
A Peek into the SeriesIn the second season, our favorite characters continue their adventures, fixing time-space errors and repairing incidents that should never have occurred. This time, Bon has become a time patrol agent with a new partner and exciting adventures to embark on.
As viewers, we get the chance to explore ancient Egyptian and pre-Columbian civilizations in Mexico, watch the Fates in action, and view the Trojan War live. All this while our beloved characters stumble through the fast-paced plot.
“T・P BON” is an engaging series suitable for children and adults alike. It amalgamates education with entertainment and introduces quantum concepts throughout the storyline, making it an original and fun series.
Yes, Japan is home to Godzilla and is known for intertwining science and traditional mythology, which may not be surprising. Nevertheless, when combined with manga and tradition, it results in exceptionally original series like this one. For instance, we witness a child apprehend a serial killer.
The series boasts humor that borders on surrealism, while the gripping storyline brims with imagination without falling into parody. It is amusing, intelligent, instructive, and uniquely creative.
Enjoy the series!
Where to Watch “T・P BON”The post “T・P BON”: The Japanese Anime Series Making a Smart Comeback on Netflix with Season 2 appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.
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