Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 148

Amanda Nell Eu to Receive 2024 Women In Motion Emerging Talent Award at Cannes

In a celebration of talent and cinematic excellence, Kering and the Festival de Cannes have announced Malaysian director Amanda Nell Eu as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Women In Motion Emerging Talent Award. This accolade, decided upon by Swiss director and 2023 awardee Carmen Jaquier, underscores the burgeoning influence of female directors in the film industry. The award, which includes a €50,000 grant, is designed to support the creation of the recipient’s next film project.

Women In Motion

The official presentation of the award is set to take place during the esteemed Women In Motion dinner in Cannes. Here, industry giants including Dame Donna Langley, Chairman of the NBCUniversal Studio Group and Chief Content Officer, will be present to celebrate the achievements of women in film. Both the Women In Motion Emerging Talent Award and the Women In Motion Award will be presented by François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, alongside Iris Knobloch, President of the Festival de Cannes, and Thierry Frémaux, General Delegate of the Festival de Cannes.

Amanda Nell Eu, known for her debut feature film “Tiger Stripes”, expressed her gratitude and excitement upon receiving the award. “I am incredibly honored to receive this award, and want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Carmen Jaquier for recognizing my work. This recognition not only validates my voice and artistic expression but also the hard work of the entire ‘Tiger Stripes’ team,” she remarked.

Carmen Jaquier spoke on her decision to select Eu, praising the “rebellious power and wild energy” of “Tiger Stripes”, which she feels disrupts the ‘coming of age’ genre with a jubilant and unique approach. “Passing this award to Amanda is an honor, emphasizing cinema as a haven for invention and insolence,” Jaquier added.

Since its launch in May 2015 by Kering, in collaboration with the Festival de Cannes, the Women In Motion initiative has become a significant feature of the festival’s program. Aimed at celebrating and encouraging the contribution of women in the film industry, the initiative has recognized numerous inspiring figures and promising talents over the years. To date, the Emerging Talent Award has spotlighted the diverse talents of female directors from around the world, fortifying the path for the next generation of filmmakers.

Amanda Nell Eu’s recognition marks a significant milestone in her career and highlights the contributions of Malaysian cinema on the global stage. As a graduate from the London Film School and an alumna of several international filmmaking academies, Eu’s works have explored themes of female body and identity within the Southeast Asian cultural context. Her achievements, including the notable premiere of “Tiger Stripes” at Cannes and its selection as Malaysia’s official submission for the Academy Awards in 2023, set a precedent for Southeast Asian filmmakers and women in cinema worldwide.

The award’s commitment to advancing the voices and careers of female filmmakers aligns with Kering’s ongoing mission to promote gender equality and celebrate the manifold contributions of women to culture and the arts.

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“The Final: Attack on Wembley”: A Netflix Documentary That Delves Deeper Than Football

Since 1966, England had not clinched an international trophy until they triumphed over Germany in the World Cup Final. That historic Sunday, July 11th, was a monumental occasion for English football fans, a day steeped in anticipation and fervor.

Tickets were being sold for thousands of pounds on the internet, and fans had only one thought on their minds—not to miss the match. Crowds gathered in the thousands outside Wembley Stadium, the cathedral of English football. Ticketed or not, fans amassed, many with alarmingly high blood alcohol concentrations.

And yes, things spiraled out of control.

More Than Just A Game

For those who are not fervent followers, it might be hard to comprehend, but to the true fans, football is almost a religion. It’s not just about the game; it’s about living vicariously through the team’s highs and lows, feeling every emotion relayed from the pitch by the players. However, it’s no secret that the pre-game festivities often escalate beyond fans’ control, as is the case in many other sports.

“The Final: Attack on Wembley” is not merely a recount of the match that pitted England against Italy; it’s an exploration of the disturbances that unfolded before and after the game, now unveiled by Netflix. This documentary takes a fan’s and security personnel’s perspective, offering a narrative that extends beyond the gameplay to the events surrounding the stadium. It examines the ongoing behavior of fans and the potential dangers that such significant matches may pose.

The documentary features fans from both countries, historic rivals, along with numerous interviews with stadium security officials and their efforts to manage fans teetering on the brink of violence. Many supporters turned up without tickets, attempting to force their way into the stadium—a scenario anticipated and prepared for by security.

In addition to covering the match itself and its place in football history, the documentary’s main focus is on the fans. It’s an insight into their experiences, emotions, and sometimes hazardous enthusiasm for the game.

A Recurring Phenomenon in Football Stadiums

This wasn’t the first time a football match led to terrible incidents. The documentary recalls the tragedy of 1985, where a match involving an Italian team, Juventus, against an English one, Liverpool, brought back memories of one of football’s darkest days. Several fans lost their lives in what became a pivotal moment that transformed football, leading to enhanced security measures at stadiums.

Our Thoughts

“The Final: Attack on Wembley” offers an entertaining yet familiar narrative to seasoned football enthusiasts: attending high-stakes matches can be perilous, and stadiums are often arenas of raw emotion. Without treading new ground, the documentary promises more than it delivers, presenting a somewhat flat chronicle of a monumental match while recounting what is already widely known and expected by fans.

In essence, while it may not break new ground in the realm of sports documentaries, “The Final: Attack on Wembley” provides an essential reflection on the complexities and passions that define football, reminding us that the game’s impact often transcends the pitch.

Where to Watch “The Final: Attack on Wembley”

Netflix

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Jaume Plensa at Fubon Art Museum, Taipei, Taiwan

Galerie Lelong & Co. has unveiled “The House of Light and Love” (2024), a captivating new sculpture by renowned artist Jaume Plensa, at the newly inaugurated Fubon Art Museum, marking Plensa’s first public sculpture in Taiwan.

Fashioned from painted stainless steel, this impressive structure features a humanoid figure composed of multiple languages, with the Chinese characters for “light” and “love” prominently integrated throughout the design. Plensa’s sculpture serves as a beacon of tolerance and diversity, aptly reflecting the rich, multicultural tapestry of contemporary society. “The House of Light and Love stands as a poetic sanctuary, enshrouding us in a symphony of languages that celebrates our shared humanity,” Plensa commented.

This landmark installation arrives at a pivotal moment for Fubon Art Museum, which aims to distinguish itself as a leading center for modern and contemporary art within Taiwan. Positioned as a bridge to the wider world of art and culture, the museum seeks to ignite the creative spark among the residents of Taiwan as well as international visitors, creating a seamless dialogue between art and life.

In celebration of the museum’s opening and this significant installation, renowned composer Zong Chiang has crafted an original piece of music titled “The House of Light and Love.” Together, Plensa’s sculpture and Chiang’s musical composition underscore the museum’s commitment to fostering an environment where art and cultural expressions thrive, enhancing the cultural landscape of Taiwan and beyond.

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Whitechapel Gallery Announces Peter Kennard: Archive of Dissent

Whitechapel Gallery is thrilled to present “Archive of Dissent,” a groundbreaking exhibition showcasing five decades of Peter Kennard’s illustrious career as an artist and activist. Opening this summer, the exhibition will be the most extensive display of Kennard’s works to date, featuring his remarkable contributions to political art.

Renowned for his compelling images of resistance and dissent, Peter Kennard has been a prominent figure in political art since the 1970s. His influential works have spanned critical socio-political movements including the Vietnam War, Anti-Apartheid Movement, Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND), and the Stop the War Coalition, alongside his passionate environmental activism.

“Archive of Dissent” will occupy three galleries within the historic Whitechapel Library space, transforming it into a vibrant forum of social and political dialogues. This special exhibition, conceived specifically for the Whitechapel Gallery, promises to offer an in-depth look into Kennard’s pioneering use of photomontage while celebrating his tireless spirit of activism.

The exhibition pays homage to the gallery’s rich history as a former library by transforming it into an evolving archive. Visitors can expect to see a wide array of Kennard’s works, including printed materials, placards, and his iconic posters and books. Highlighting his artistic process, the display will begin with his distinctive photomontages, inspired by John Heartfield and consistently aimed at critiquing power structures and advocating for global change.

Noteworthy installations such as “Boardroom” (2023) and “Double Exposure” (2023) demonstrate Kennard’s innovative approach to deconstructing photomontage through the use of light, glass, and projection. In addition, “The People’s University of the East End” (2024) draws on the gallery’s historical significance, reflecting on its role as a space for democratic education and grassroots protest.

Peter Kennard commented, “My art is driven by outrage at how financial gain dictates our society, concealing injustices like poverty, racism, and war. ‘Archive of Dissent’ is a collection of works fueled by this anger, aiming to unveil the harsh realities masked by corporate and state power.”

About Peter Kennard:

Peter Kennard is a prominent figure in political art, holding the title of Emeritus Professor of Political Art at the Royal College of Art. His works have been shown worldwide, featuring in prestigious institutions such as the Imperial War Museum in London and the United Nations in Geneva. Kennard’s influential photomontages are part of major collections and have served as powerful symbols in activist movements around the globe.

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Boneyard Unveiled: A Glimpse into 2024’s Thriller

In what promises to be a gripping cinematic experience, the trailer for Boneyard, set for a 2024 release, has just been launched, stirring anticipation amongst thriller and action aficionados worldwide. Directed by Asif Akbar and featuring a cast including Mel Gibson, Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson, Nora Zehetner, Brian Van Holt, and Randall J. Bacon, Boneyard is already shaping up to be a must-watch.

Set against the stark backdrop of the New Mexico desert, the film is inspired by harrowing true crime stories. It plunges viewers into an intense narrative where the skeletal remains of 11 women & girls set off an extensive investigation. Police Chief Carter (portrayed by 50 Cent), alongside Detective Ortega (Brian Van Holt) and the unyielding Agent Petrovick (Mel Gibson), leads a multi-agency taskforce on a relentless quest to unearth the identity of the killer.

The plot thickens as the trio’s divergent agendas and methodologies clash, weaving a complex tapestry of intrigue and suspicion. Boneyard promises not only to thrill audiences with its fast-paced action sequences but also to engage them through its nuanced exploration of the intricacies of law enforcement and the lengths to which they go to bring justice.

The film is written by Asif Akbar, Hank Byrd, Vincent E. McDaniel, and Koji Steven Sakai.

Produced by a collaborative effort among Avail Entertainment, Dream Team Productions, One Dollar Studios, Tetrad Studios, and Busy Day Productions, Boneyard belongs to the action and thriller genre, with a strong emphasis on cop movies, serial killers, and narratives inspired by true events.

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New Horror Flick “The Hangman” Brings Chills and Thrills to Online Platforms

The slasher movie, The Hangman, directed by Bruce Wemple, is set to terrorize horror fans worldwide as it becomes available for purchase and rental online. With a gripping script penned by LeJon Woods and Bruce Wemple, the film showcases an ensemble cast led by LeJon Woods, Daniel Martin Berkey, Lindsey Dresbach, and Jefferson Cox, offering viewers a blood-curdling experience that promises to linger long after the credits roll.

Set against the backdrop of deep rural Appalachia, The Hangman unfolds the harrowing tale of Leon, a middle-aged door-to-door salesman striving to mend his strained relationship with his teenage son. In a bid for reconciliation and some much-needed bonding, Leon plans a camping trip into the heart of Appalachian wilderness, oblivious to the dark secrets the mountains hide.

The tranquility of their retreat is shattered when they stumble upon a local cult engaged in ancient and sinister practices. The cult has summoned an entity known to them as The Hangman, a demon born from the depths of hate and pain. It’s not long before the duo find themselves caught in a horrifying sequence of events, as the bodies begin to pile up in the woods around them.

The plot thickens when Leon discovers his son missing one morning, setting off a desperate search to find him. The quest forces Leon to confront the murderous cult and face the demonic wrath of The Hangman.

With its release on June 4, The Hangman is poised to become a standout entry in the slasher horror category for 2024.

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Introducing “Super Rich in Korea”, a Netflix reality show designed to offer a tantalizing glimpse into the lives of the ultra-rich

Today, we bring you “Super Rich in Korea”, a Netflix spectacle that invites viewers to witness the extravagant lifestyles of the wealthy elite. Amidst the opulence, three guests hilariously comment (literally bursting into laughter) on the frivolities and eccentricities of the most indulgent millionaires. Meet a fashion-forward young woman barely tipping the scales at 88 pounds, a boastful Singaporean tycoon proud of his wealth, and an irresistibly charming Italian…

Remember the legends of Catherine the Great, rumored never to wear the same dress twice? “Super Rich in Korea” captures this similar ethos, but spun into a Korean reality show dripping with irony. Here, we peek into the lives of Korea’s wealthiest, in one of the world’s most expensive and cutting-edge locales.

And honestly, the show is designed for a bit of laughter at it all.

A program centered around wealth and the shared folly that even the richest share with the rest of humanity.

About the Reality Show

There’s not much to say except that it’s delightfully absurd. The gimmick wears thin within five minutes, boiling down to a simple premise: these individuals lead lives set apart from the ordinary, blessed with fortune, dedicating their days to cultivating their peculiar breed of folly. Nothing more. Meanwhile, “Super Rich in Korea” comprises three guests in a studio, discussing the show where the conversation incessantly revolves around monetary value—how much a dress costs or the price tag of a house—all while sharing laughs, a universally welcome distraction.

The Format: Korean-Style Reality Show

For those unfamiliar, allow me to explain. There are two settings: one features the guests providing commentary and their takes on what they’re seeing; the other showcases the reality series itself, this time presenting interlinked documentaries displaying the millionaires’ lifestyles.

Our three amiable Korean hosts will share their insights, which, predictably, can’t extend far beyond acknowledgment of a world far removed from ours, a realm of the blessed few observed with a distant smile and a touch of envy.

The Spoons

As the saying goes, everyone is born into a social class that they cannot change in their lifetime: you are either born rich or poor, middle-class, lower or upper, but you are stuck in your class. In Korea, this concept is coined as “spoons”: silver, gold… each person belongs to a “spoon” (class), and this time, we get to observe those born with “golden spoons”.

Netflix Dives into the Populist Genre

As we know, Netflix offers a wide range: from cult movies to high-quality series and… shows that are neither cult nor high-quality but are entertaining and bring smiles to faces.

“Super Rich in Korea” belongs to the latter category and might pique your curiosity. Will you learn anything? It’s uncertain if it’ll make you smarter (highly doubtful), but you will gain insight into how millionaires live and realize they may not be the brightest. The show might teach you, for instance, what a micro-bag is (a tiny handbag that fits nothing, yet costs a fortune due to its brand name).

Or maybe, the show’s intent is precisely that – to highlight these lucky individuals who, with minimal effort, have everything in life.

Unmerited fortune, at least according to the show’s narrative.

Where to Watch “Super Rich in Korea”

Netflix

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“The Easterngate,” One Of The First Max Original Series In Poland Begins Production

In an exciting development for Polish original content, production has commenced this March for “The Easterngate,” set to become one of the inaugural Max Original series in Poland. The series promises to be a riveting suspense thriller that dives deep into the murky waters of modern espionage amidst a backdrop of rising international tensions and conflict.

“The Easterngate” explores the shadowy realm of spy operations and the personal toll on individuals caught in the crossfires of secret service duty. The narrative centers around Ewa Oginiec, portrayed by the talented Polish actress Lena Góra, who seeks to leave her espionage life behind after enduring personal tragedy. However, her plans are derailed when her partner, a fellow agent, is compromised and disappears under mysterious circumstances, courtesy of Russian intelligence.

Set against the geopolitical tumult on NATO’s eastern front and Russian military maneuvers in the Suwałki Gap—a significant strategic area bordering Poland, Lithuania, Belarus, and Russia, including the Kaliningrad Oblast—the series unfolds. This critical stretch of land, known as one of Europe’s most contentious hotspots, plays a central role in the storyline, emphasizing its importance in NATO’s defense strategy and regional stability.

The storyline is set mainly during the spring of 2021, spanning several locations including Belarus (Minsk), Poland, and Russia. Jan P. Matuszyński, an award-winning director known for his work on “The Last Family” and “Leave No Traces,” directs the series, promising a blend of intense drama and intricate storytelling that captures the complexities of hybrid warfare and the high-stakes conflict between intelligence agencies.

Lena Góra, who brings Ewa Oginiec to life, is celebrated for her versatile acting skills and notable contributions to both Polish and international cinema. Her acclaimed roles include leading performances in “The King of Warsaw,” “Imago,” and the Tribeca Film Festival premiered “Roving Woman,” showcasing her as a formidable talent in the acting world. The addition of Góra to “The Easterngate” cast highlights the series’ commitment to delivering compelling performances set against the captivating narrative crafted by Matuszyński.

“The Easterngate” is not just another spy thriller; it’s a meticulous exploration of the geopolitical landscapes that shape our world, the unseen battles fought by intelligence operatives, and the personal sacrifices made by those who live in the shadows. With its high-caliber cast and crew, the series is poised to become a landmark achievement in Polish television, offering audiences a gripping look into a world where global stakes meet personal struggles and the lines between right and wrong are constantly blurred.

As “The Easterngate” progresses through production, it carries the promise of setting a new benchmark for storytelling excellence in Poland, inviting viewers on a suspense-filled journey through the heart of modern espionage.

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Artist Parme Marin Announces “In The Name Of The Mother,” A Debut Solo Exhibition Of New Works Presented At Chinatown Soup Gallery May, New York

New York, NY | MAY 6, 2024 – In an ambitious melding of mediums, Parme Marin unveils her debut solo exhibition, “In The Name of The Mother,” at the Chinatown Soup Gallery, featuring a collection of 11 mixed-media works that span painting and sculpture. This exhibition, on display from May 7 through May 19, 2024, pushes the boundaries of traditional fine art, exploring themes of femininity, maternal identity, and the body through an innovative use of materials such as paint, hair, wood, and textiles.

Parme Marin, The Queen Mother, Acrylic, oil stick and beads on canvas and fabric, 2024

Marin’s work stands as a testament to her personal evolution through motherhood and her rebellion against its conventional constraints. She skillfully crafts material juxtapositions that are as unexpected as they are poignant, conveying a narrative deeply rooted in her experiences and observations. “In The Name of The Mother” seeks not only to showcase artistic innovation but also to prompt a dialogue on the societal and instinctual pressures that often confine women to a predefined mother role, highlighting the internal struggle many face in seeking equilibrium.

Each piece in Marin’s oeuvre is a direct reflection of her engagement with the material world, utilizing it as a conduit for exploring tactile and ethereal concepts such as autonomy and inheritance. Humor and critique intersect in her self-portraiture; localized in the domestic sanctuary of the bathroom, her works present a unique commentary on balance and self-awareness through the whimsical yet critical depiction of her feet.

Parme Marin, Trapped in the Journey, Spray paint, acrylic, and oil stick on leather and wood on upcycling mailing plastic, 2024

The artist’s exploration of the female form and identity extends into a reimagining of historical portraiture and eighteenth-century French ceremonial decoration. Through a blend of figuration and abstraction, she deconstructs traditional notions of femininity using domestic materials and mark-making that embraces imperfection, symbolizing the physical and emotional labor of motherhood.

Marin’s research-driven approach is a celebration of flaws and a quest for a liberated path to womanhood. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of French decorative arts, spanning the grandeur of the Louis XIV era to the elegance of Art Deco, her works are a study in contrasts – soft and hard, freedom and constraint, illustrating the dualities inherent in life and art.

“In The Name of The Mother” is more than an exhibition; it is an intimate exploration of the artist’s evolving identity as a woman, artist, and mother. Through her groundbreaking mixed-media works, Parme Marin invites viewers into a world where art becomes a medium for psychological release and a space for challenging the confines of traditional maternal roles.

Parme Marin, High Frequencies, Acrylic and oil stick on canvas and enameled ceramics,2024

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Meridiem Games Unveils “The Pixel Pulps Collection – Special Edition” for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch

Madrid, Spain – May 6, 2024 – In an exciting announcement sure to delight both retro game aficionados and pulp fiction enthusiasts alike, Meridiem Games revealed its latest venture, The Pixel Pulps Collection – Special Edition, slated for release on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. This exceptional collection, skilfully developed by LCB Game Studio and digitally published by Chorus Worldwide Games, merges the pixel-art charm of vintage video games with the vivid storytelling of classic pulp literature, promising an enthralling adventure into nostalgia and beyond.

Scheduled to grace European shelves in the summer of 2024, this special boxed edition has been meticulously crafted by Meridiem Games. It will feature a unique sleeve design, a platform-specific holographic card, and exclusive access to download alternate covers, making it a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts.

A Deep Dive into Nostalgic Realms

The Pixel Pulps Collection offers players an array of immersive experiences, transporting them into evocative worlds where pixelated graphics meet gripping narratives filled with heroes, villains, and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. From the spooky encounters in Mothmen 1966, where love and conspiracy intertwine, to the eerie shores of Varney Lake, a vacation spot with a vampire problem, to the stormy, cult-ridden landscapes of Tornado Alley in Bahnsen Knights, this collection ensures a thrill for every player.

Each game within the collection pays tribute to the golden era of gaming, bringing to life the aesthetics of the 8 and 16-bit periods with lovingly crafted visuals. The titles blend thrilling science fiction, beguiling mystery, and suspense-filled adventures, providing a diverse and engaging experience for players.

A Celebration of Retro Gaming and Pulp Fiction

Meridiem Games’ initiative to fuse the essence of retro gaming with the allure of pulp storytelling makes The Pixel Pulps Collection an enticing proposition for gamers and readers alike. It signifies a bridging of generations, where nostalgic elements and contemporary gaming innovations converge.

“As we look forward to the release of The Pixel Pulps Collection – Special Edition, our goal was not only to recreate the magical touch of classic games and stories but also to offer something uniquely enticing for today’s gaming community,” stated a representative from Meridiem Games. “This collection is a testament to the timeless appeal of retro aesthetics and narrative depth, serving as a portal to the past for anyone who cherishes the art of storytelling and the pioneering spirit of early video gaming.”

With its blend of engaging plots, alluring settings, and immersive gameplay, The Pixel Pulps Collection – Special Edition stands out as a beacon for those seeking to recapture the spirit of adventure that defined the video games and literature of yesteryears.

For enthusiasts eager to step back in time while enjoying the comforts of modern gaming technology, keep an eye out for this eagerly anticipated release in the summer of 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to secure their exclusive VIP viewing by contacting The Rubenstein Group directly via email or phone. With Meridiem Games at the helm, the voyage into the rich tapestry of retro-inspired adventures promises to be both mesmerizing and unforgettable.

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