Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 37

Marcus Henderson, Roberto Sanchez Among Stars to Attend Beyond Hollywood Int’l Opening Night

The Beyond Hollywood International Film Festival 2025 announced its highly anticipated event, scheduled to take place at the world-renowned Regal LA Live in downtown Los Angeles. Now in its 4th year, BHIFF is set to screen over 50 independent films from around the globe at the prestigious Regal L.A. Live and the Los Angeles Film School.

Opening night kicks off with a celebration with Actors Marcus Henderson (Get Out, Django Unchained) and Roberto Sanchez (2 Fast 2 Furious, The Ride) attending along with other surprise guests to help set the tone for a weekend full of cinematic heat, cultural connection, and creative excellence.

This year’s event will be capped off with an unforgettable red-carpet awards ceremony on May 4th, where custom-designed awards will be presented to the winners in multiple categories. The festival’s prestigious panel of industry judges, with over 40 years of combined experience in the film industry, will be responsible for critiquing and selecting the finalists. Their expertise will ensure that only the best and brightest are recognized for their exceptional work.

Awards & Prizes:
Finalists will have the rare opportunity to showcase their films on the big screen at the Regal LA Live, gaining exposure to both industry insiders and passionate film lovers. Winners will receive custom awards that celebrate their achievement, alongside invaluable recognition from top industry professionals.

Past winners of the Beyond Hollywood International Film Festival include celebrated talents such as James Pratt ( Malibu Crush, Longevity Hackers) Bonnie McKee ( April Kills the Vibe )  and Michael Schilf ( The Fixer )

“We aim to bring together filmmakers, screenwriters, and industry professionals to celebrate the art of storytelling,” says Chez Bey. “Our goal is to get your work in front of the right people—the ones who can help take your project to the next level.”

Event Dates: from May 1-4, 2025

Race for the Crown on Netflix: High-Stakes Horse Racing

Are you a fan of horse racing? It might not be as common a pastime as basketball or tennis, but we assure you it’s a truly captivating world. Don’t believe us? Then check out “Race for the Crown,” a new Netflix documentary that takes us into the world of US horse racing through the three major races that make up the Triple Crown, culminating in the world-famous Kentucky Derby.

“Race for the Crown” offers an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at the personalities, pressures, and prestige surrounding the American Triple Crown season, aiming to capture the inherent drama of the “sport of kings.” Produced by Box to Box Films, the acclaimed team behind the hit “Formula 1: Drive to Survive,” the series follows a familiar strategy: leveraging human stories and high production values to broaden the sport’s appeal. Its release, just weeks before the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby, seems designed to capture maximum public interest.

“Race for the Crown” unfolds over six 45-minute episodes. The production is led by a team of experienced documentary filmmakers from Box to Box Films, including executive producers James Gay-Rees, Paul Martin, Hillary Olsen, Warren Smith, and Ian Sambor, with Tim Stampher and Jordan Bogdonavage serving as co-executive producers.

Galloping to Screens: Inside the Paddock of “Race for the Crown”

The central premise of “Race for the Crown” follows the key human protagonists—jockeys, trainers, and owners—as they navigate the demanding and lucrative season of Grade 1 racing in thoroughbred horse racing. Grade 1 races represent the absolute pinnacle of competition, featuring the best horses, the largest prize purses, and the greatest prestige. “Race for the Crown” covers a significant portion of the racing calendar, beginning with the prestigious Breeders’ Cup championships and charting the path to the ultimate prize for three-year-old thoroughbreds: the Triple Crown. This trio of races includes the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, known as “The Run for the Roses”; the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course, or “The Run for the Black-Eyed Susans”; and the Belmont Stakes in New York, nicknamed “The Test of the Champion” due to its demanding 1.5-mile distance. Winning all three races within a challenging five-week span is one of the sport’s most exceptional and celebrated achievements, cementing a horse’s place in history.

Race for the Crown – Netflix

Faces on the Track: The High-Stakes World of Owners, Jockeys, and Trainers

The series populates its narrative with a diverse cast drawn from the upper echelons and the front lines of horse racing, focusing intently on the human element that drives the sport.

The Owners’ Circle: Big Bets and Even Bigger Egos

Considerable time is dedicated to the powerful and often flamboyant owners who invest millions in pursuit of glory. Prominent among them are Mike Repole, Vitaminwater co-founder, known for his significant annual investment in horses (reportedly over $20 million a year), and John Stewart. Their rivalry is presented as a key storyline, embodying the intense competition fueled by massive financial stakes. As Repole himself states in the series, “There’s an incredible amount of money in this game.” Also featured is Michael Iavarone, adding a unique perspective. Jayson Werth, former MLB All-Star and World Series champion, who founded Icon Racing. Werth, whose horse Flying Mohawk was competing for a spot in the Kentucky Derby, is featured extensively in the series and also hosts a horse racing podcast, “Off the Rail.” The series leans into the narrative of the “billionaire moguls” whose “multimillion-dollar investments and insatiable appetite for glory” fuel “intense rivalries.”

The Jockeys’ Perspective: Determination and Glory

The series also highlights the athletes who partner with these powerful equine competitors. Legendary Italian jockey Frankie Dettori is a central figure, narrating his decision to forgo retirement and move to the United States in pursuit of adding a Triple Crown victory to his illustrious global record. “I wasn’t ready to retire. I’d rather die on a horse than die of boredom,” Dettori declares in the show. Viewers get an up-close look at his lifestyle and his role in mentoring two young Italian jockeys based in California, Umberto Rispoli and Antonio Fresu. Another key figure is Brian Hernandez Jr., who rode Mystik Dan to victory in the 2024 Kentucky Derby. The production team captured his journey leading up to the Derby, including his win in the Kentucky Oaks the day before, which producer Warren Smith describes as a fortunate coincidence that provided a compelling narrative arc. The series also offers a poignant look at the challenges faced by Katie Davis, a New York-based jockey and one of the few women competing at the highest level. Her story explores her return to riding after a 16-month break for the birth of her son, highlighting the unique obstacles she faces, from skepticism from officials to the isolation of separate, often empty, women’s locker rooms compared to the bustling camaraderie of the men’s rooms. Completing the list of featured jockeys is a roster of top-tier talent known to racing fans, including Puerto Rican stars and brothers Irad Ortiz Jr. and Jose Ortiz, Hall of Famers John Velazquez (the all-time winningest jockey at Saratoga) and Javier Castellano (2023 Derby winner), French jockeys Flavien Prat and Florent Geroux, and Panamanian jockey Luis Saez.

The Trainers’ Touch

While the primary focus appears to be on the owners and jockeys, several prominent trainers offer their insights. Kenny McPeek, trainer of 2024 Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan, is featured, along with Danny Gargan, who also trained a 2024 Triple Crown contender. Both are portrayed favorably, representing the “lifelong horseman” archetype achieving success. Other notable trainers appearing include Bob Baffert, Brad Cox, and Larry Demeritte, all highly successful yet often controversial figures.

The “Drive to Survive” Effect? Box to Box Films Takes the Reins

Box to Box Films’ involvement is perhaps the most significant indicator of the series’ intended approach and potential impact. This production company has carved out a niche creating highly successful sports docuseries for Netflix, including “Formula 1: Drive to Survive,” the golf-focused “Full Swing,” and the track and field series “SPRINT.” Their signature style involves gaining privileged access to athletes and stakeholders, focusing on personalities and interpersonal dynamics, and presenting the behind-the-scenes drama with high production values and cinematic storytelling. The clear goal appears to be replicating the “Drive to Survive” phenomenon in horse racing. That series is credited with significantly boosting the popularity of Formula 1, particularly in the lucrative US market, by making the complex sport accessible and engaging to a new and broader audience. By applying the same formula, which emphasizes human stories, rivalries, and the pressures inherent in elite competition, Netflix and Box to Box are betting on achieving a similar outcome for the “sport of kings.” Interestingly, the original concept for the series reportedly encompassed a wider range of international races, but Netflix ultimately decided to focus specifically on the American Triple Crown. This suggests a calculated decision to center the narrative on the most recognizable and marketable racing series within the United States, likely aiming for maximum resonance with that core audience while still being appealing internationally.

Our Take

The same successful sports formula is applied, this time, to horse racing. The production design, the type of program, is already recognizable and perhaps a little less surprising. That said, it achieves everything it sets out to do, and the producers gain exclusive access to everyone – jockeys, owners, and trainers – delivering it to the viewer on a silver platter.

Rivalries, conflicts, and above all, glamour.

Enjoy the ride.

Where to Watch “Race for the Crown”

Netflix

Secrets of the Penguins: National Geographic’s Revelatory New Docuseries Executive Produced by James Cameron Arrives

Penguins are ubiquitous in zoos, aquariums, and countless films, often appearing familiar and easily understood. Yet, beneath this recognizable exterior lies a world of surprising complexity, resilience, and struggle, much of which has remained hidden until now. National Geographic’s ambitious three-part documentary miniseries, “Secrets of the Penguins,” peels back the layers surrounding these beloved birds, revealing astonishing behaviors never before captured on film and delivering a poignant message about their fight for survival on a rapidly changing planet.

Launching around Earth Day 2024, precisely two decades after the iconic, Oscar-winning “March of the Penguins” captivated audiences worldwide, this new series aims to redefine our understanding of these creatures. It marks the latest chapter in National Geographic’s Emmy-winning “Secrets of…” franchise, which has previously explored the hidden lives of whales, elephants, and octopuses. Backed by the formidable production power of National Geographic Explorer and Oscar-winning filmmaker James Cameron, and narrated by actress Blake Lively, the series leverages significant star power and the trust the Nat Geo brand inspires.

A World of Penguins: Beyond the Antarctic Ice

“Secrets of the Penguins” immediately shatters the monolithic image of the penguin confined to the icy landscapes of Antarctica. The series embarks on a global expedition showcasing the extraordinary diversity within the penguin family and their surprising adaptability to vastly different environments.

While the majestic Emperor penguins (Aptenodytes forsteri), the largest and perhaps most iconic species, feature prominently in their extreme Antarctic home (filmed in locations like Atka Bay and the Ekström Ice Shelf), the narrative extends far beyond the polar ice. Viewers journey to the equator to witness Galápagos penguins (Spheniscus mendiculus) thriving among volcanic rocks and cacti, employing unique survival strategies in their tropical habitat.

The series ventures to the coasts of Africa, revealing African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) navigating the challenges of desert caves in Namibia and the bustling streets near Cape Town, South Africa. Further south, in the tempestuous Southern Ocean, the focus shifts to the “rebels” and “risk-takers”: the Gentoo (Pygoscelis papua), Southern Rockhopper (Eudyptes chrysocome/chrysolophus), and Macaroni penguins (Eudyptes chrysolophus), filmed on remote, wind-battered islands like South Georgia. Even Adélie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) make an appearance, primarily in the context of their vulnerability to Antarctica’s changing climate.

This deliberate showcasing of geographic and species diversity serves a crucial narrative purpose. By presenting penguins thriving—or struggling to survive—in deserts, tropics, and urban peripheries, the series actively counters the simplistic, ice-bound stereotype. It reframes adaptability and ingenuity, not just cold tolerance, as defining penguin characteristics, compelling audiences to reconsider their understanding of these birds.

Never-Before-Seen Wonders: Unveiling Penguin Secrets

“Secrets of the Penguins” delivers truly groundbreaking footage, capturing behaviors previously unknown or only speculated upon by scientists.

The most widely publicized revelation is the astonishing Emperor penguin cliff jump. Filmed in Antarctica’s Atka Bay, the sequence documents hundreds of chicks, having taken a “wrong turn” on their first journey to the sea, congregating at the edge of a 50-foot-high ice precipice. This behavior, never before filmed for television, shows the chicks launching themselves into the frigid ocean far below for their inaugural swim.

Another remarkable “secret” is the parenting practice of Emperor penguins. Cameras capture mated pairs, possibly those unsuccessful in breeding that season, meticulously practicing the delicate transfer of an egg-sized piece of ice or snow between their feet. This apparent rehearsal highlights their social inventiveness and capacity for planning, demonstrating their ability to learn and prepare for improved reproductive success in the future.

The series also unveils the cunning tactics of Galápagos penguins, observed “attacking” larger birds like pelicans and snatching fish directly from their beaks to streamline the hunting process. Furthermore, it documents cooperative hunting strategies among banded penguins (such as African or Galápagos), where groups work together to corral fish into dense “bait balls,” dramatically increasing their foraging success compared to solitary hunting.

These documented behaviors, alongside other newly observed social skills and “revelatory bonds of friendship,” offer significant new insights into penguin intelligence, social complexity, and adaptability.

The production involved close collaboration with over 70 scientists worldwide, whose research often provided the initial clues guiding the filmmakers toward discovering these hidden aspects of penguin life.

The Epic Journey Behind the Camera: Capturing the Secrets

Bringing these secrets to the screen was a monumental undertaking, demanding extraordinary commitment, cutting-edge technology, and immense patience from the production team. The series was filmed over two years globally, involving a large international crew of filmmakers and scientists.

The sheer scale of the fieldwork is evident in the first episode, focused on Emperor penguins. Capturing their story required an astonishing 274 days of filming on Antarctica’s inhospitable Ekström Ice Shelf—a duration far exceeding typical wildlife shoots, which usually last four to six weeks. A three-person crew endured this extended period in extreme isolation and harsh conditions, camping near the colony of 20,000 penguins. This immense investment of time, repeatedly emphasized by cinematographer Bertie Gregory, was deemed essential to build trust, understand the animals’ rhythms, and be present for unpredictable, unique moments.

The production was a collaboration between National Geographic and the award-winning production company Talesmith, known for pushing the boundaries of storytelling with new technology. James Cameron’s Lightstorm Earth company also contributed executive production oversight.

At the heart of it all is Bertie Gregory, a BAFTA and Emmy Award-winning wildlife cinematographer and National Geographic Explorer. Gregory serves as the lead storyteller, guiding viewers through the world of penguins with infectious enthusiasm and deep expertise. The series is narrated by Blake Lively, and Serena Davies is the series producer.

Innovation in filming technology was critical. Advanced drones proved indispensable, especially for capturing events like the cliff jump. Improved flight times allowed crews to remain airborne for hours, patiently waiting for the action to unfold, while powerful zoom lenses enabled filming from a distance, minimizing disturbance to the wildlife. Gregory stated unequivocally that filming the cliff jump would have been impossible without drones.

Unlike many wary wild animals, penguins in most locations lack land predators and are often unfazed by human presence. This unique biological trait allowed filmmakers to get exceptionally close with wide-angle lenses, capturing raw emotion and detail in a style Gregory likens to shooting a human drama. This combination of using technology for distant observation (drones) and leveraging the subject’s natural boldness for intimate close-ups and perspectives defines the series’ distinctive visual language, offering both grand spectacle and personal connection. Other technological adaptations included testing cameras in freezers and using modified, cold-resistant cables for the extreme Antarctic chill, alongside employing Starlink satellite internet and bespoke data systems to transmit footage from remote locations.

The challenges were immense: battling extreme cold, navigating treacherous sea ice, enduring prolonged isolation, and accessing incredibly remote locations like uninhabited Southern Ocean islands that took weeks to reach.

Penguins on the Front Lines: A Story of Climate Change

“Secrets of the Penguins” does not shy away from the harsh realities its subjects face. Climate change is woven into the narrative fabric, presented not as a distant threat but as an immediate and existential challenge. As James Cameron states bluntly, “You can’t study penguins without bumping up against climate change.” Bertie Gregory observes that this reality is even more apparent in this series than in previous “Secrets of…” installments, given that many penguin species inhabit polar regions and marginal coastal environments highly vulnerable to warming.

Viewers witness Emperor penguin chicks struggling to navigate sea ice that threatens to break up and sweep them away before they are ready to swim. An explicit connection is made between the accelerating Antarctic melt and the survival of ice-dependent species like Emperor and Adélie penguins, referencing devastating mass chick mortality events linked to ice loss. Penguins are also shown searching for suitable homes in landscapes altered by changing environmental conditions.

The precarious conservation status of many penguin species is underscored: more than half of the world’s 18 species are currently classified as endangered or vulnerable. The outlook for Emperor penguins is particularly grim, with scientific projections warning that up to 70% of colonies could disappear by 2050, potentially leading to the species’ extinction by 2100 if current warming trends persist. This somber forecast lends urgency to the mission of documenting their lives now. Adding to the threat of habitat loss is the emergence of diseases like the H5N1 avian flu virus, which has caused devastating outbreaks in Antarctic colonies, placing penguins at the dangerous intersection of climate change and pandemic risks.

Resilient Birds on the Edge

“Secrets of the Penguins” achieves a remarkable synthesis: it delivers the stunning visuals and charisma expected of a major wildlife documentary while pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and intimate storytelling. The series balances moments of awe—the unexpected intelligence, the surprising adaptations, the tender family bonds—with the stark reality of survival in threatened environments.

Through Bertie Gregory’s engaging guidance and Blake Lively’s narration, viewers come to see penguins not just as adorable curiosities but as the “unbelievably tough, resilient, adaptable animals” Gregory describes, living “on the very edge of existence.”

Enjoy the series.

Where to Watch “111111111111” (depending on your location)

Disney+

hulu

Fubo

‘Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey’ on Netflix: Kulu’s Gripping and Incredible Journey from Captivity to Freedom

Netflix premieres “Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey,” a documentary that follows a small pangolin named Kulu. Ready to meet this unique and fascinating creature, a species that once roamed alongside dinosaurs?

They seem like creatures from another era, small mammals covered head to tail in sharp, overlapping scales made of keratin – the same protein found in human fingernails. Often mistaken for reptiles, pangolins curl into an armored ball when threatened, an effective defense mechanism against natural predators but tragically useless against human poachers. These ancient mammals, who coexisted with dinosaurs, now face a modern crisis. They hold the grim title of the world’s most trafficked mammals, hunted relentlessly for their scales and meat, driving all eight species to the brink of extinction.

Leading the Netflix documentary “Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey” is Pippa Ehrlich, the Oscar-winning co-director of the global phenomenon My Octopus Teacher. Produced by Anonymous Content and Dog Star Films and filmed primarily in South Africa and the UK, the documentary follows Kulu, an endangered baby pangolin rescued from poachers during an undercover operation in South Africa. Kulu embarks on a challenging journey back to the wild with the help of a devoted human guardian, Gareth Thomas. Thomas, seeking a more meaningful existence, finds new purpose in dedicating himself to Kulu’s rehabilitation.

This is the story of an animal that can barely open its mouth to feed, and we follow him from being just a baby on the long road to freedom.

Kulu’s Story: A Journey of Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Reintroduction into the Wild

The film’s narrative opens with the harsh reality of the pangolin trade: a dramatic undercover operation in South Africa intercepts traffickers and saves a traumatized baby pangolin. Among the volunteers involved in the rescue is Gareth Thomas, who names the fragile creature Kulu and takes on the demanding role of his caregiver. He leaves behind urban life, embraces the unusual title of volunteer pangolin caretaker, and dedicates himself entirely to Kulu’s recovery.

The path to rehabilitation is fraught with difficulty. Pangolins rescued from the illegal trade are often deeply traumatized and require intensive, specialized care. They have unique dietary needs, feeding exclusively on specific ants and termites, and cannot simply eat from a bowl but must learn to forage for their food. This necessitates Thomas accompanying Kulu daily, guiding him through the landscape as he learns to find food. This painstaking process unfolds across the vast, protected expanse of the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve in South Africa’s Limpopo province. Kulu’s rehabilitation takes place at a pioneering facility located there: the African Pangolin Working Group (APWG) Pangolarium, the world’s first center built expressly for rehabilitating illegally trafficked pangolins.

Within this sanctuary, a strong bond forms between man and pangolin. Thomas, describing himself as a “helicopter parent,” must navigate the delicate balance of building trust while simultaneously preparing Kulu for a life independent of human contact. The journey is marked by setbacks and moments of peril. Kulu attempts to escape early on, and Thomas recounts a mishap where he lunged between Kulu and an electric fence, inadvertently shocking the pangolin.

The ultimate goal, the culmination of months of tireless effort, is Kulu’s release back into the wild, a return to a life of freedom where he can fulfill his ecological role. Kulu’s individual struggle, meticulously documented, serves as a powerful illustration of the broader conservation narrative. His journey from trafficking victim to wild pangolin encapsulates the immense challenges, resource demands, and deep personal commitment inherent in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, offering viewers a tangible understanding of what saving a species truly entails.

Pangolin Kulu’s Journey – Netflix

The Pangolin Paradox: Armored Yet Extremely Vulnerable

Pangolins are biological marvels. They are the only mammals completely covered in scales, granting them a unique evolutionary niche. Eight distinct species roam across Africa and Asia, inhabiting diverse environments from tropical forests to grasslands. They are primarily nocturnal and solitary, navigating their world using a keen sense of smell, which compensates for their poor eyesight. Their diet consists almost exclusively of ants and termites. Lacking teeth, they employ extraordinarily long, sticky tongues, sometimes exceeding their body length, to lap up insects from deep crevices. Their powerful claws enable them to break open termite mounds and ant nests. Beyond their unique biology, pangolins play a vital ecological role, controlling insect populations (a single pangolin is estimated to consume 70 million insects per year) and aerating soil with their burrowing activities. Their reproductive rate is low, typically producing only one offspring per year (though Asian species can have up to three), making their populations slow to recover from threats. Baby pangolins, known as pangopups, typically travel by clinging firmly to the base of their mother’s tail.

Despite their protective armor, pangolins face an existential threat driven primarily by humans. The illegal wildlife trade is decimating their populations globally. Their defensive strategy of rolling into a ball makes them tragically easy for poachers to capture. Demand stems from two main sources: their scales are highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine, used to treat ailments ranging from asthma to arthritis, despite having no scientifically proven medicinal value (they are made of keratin, like human fingernails); and their meat is considered a delicacy and status symbol in countries like China and Vietnam. There is also demand in the Americas, particularly the United States, where their skin is used to make leather goods. Black market prices are astronomical, reaching $300 per kilogram for meat and $3,000 per kilogram for scales.

The scale of this illicit trade is difficult to comprehend. Estimates suggest over a million pangolins were trafficked in the decade leading up to 2020, with around 195,000 trafficked for their scales alone in 2019. Seizures, while sometimes massive (such as the 24 tons of frozen pangolins seized in Vietnam), are believed to represent as little as 10% of the actual trade volume. Analysis reveals a highly sophisticated and adaptable global trafficking network, utilizing at least 159 distinct international trade routes between 2010 and 2015 alone. While poaching and trafficking are the primary threats, pangolins also suffer from habitat loss due to agriculture and development, accidental electrocution from electric fences used in farming, and potential effects of climate change on the insects they feed on.

Reflecting this intense pressure, all eight pangolin species are now listed as threatened with extinction. They are protected under international law through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which listed all species on Appendix I in 2016, prohibiting all international commercial trade. National laws also exist in range states. However, the conservation status assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) presents a grim picture.

Global Conservation Status of Pangolin Species

The stark contrast between extensive legal protections and catastrophic pangolin population declines highlights a severe disconnect. Despite their CITES Appendix I listing and national legislation, illegal trade thrives, indicating significant enforcement gaps and persistent demand, particularly for traditional medicine uses lacking scientific validation. This situation underscores that legal frameworks alone are insufficient without robust global enforcement, concerted efforts to reduce consumer demand, and addressing the misinformation driving the trade.

Behind the Lens: The Making of Kulu’s Journey

Pippa Ehrlich brings her acclaimed sensibility for capturing human-animal connections to “Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey.” Her stated aim is to foster empathy and understanding, hoping that Kulu and Gareth’s story of “love, trust, and understanding” will resonate deeply and inspire viewers to recognize the beauty and importance of these “extraordinary, gentle, and shy creatures.” The documentary deliberately avoids a detached, purely zoological approach, opting instead for a personal and engaging narrative that blends intimate storytelling with a clear conservation message.

The film immerses viewers in the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa’s Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. Cinematography by Warren Smart, Steven Doer, and even Gareth Thomas himself captures the reserve’s mountains, wetlands, and savanna, along with its diverse wildlife and intricate insect life, creating a remarkable visual experience. The Pangolarium, Kulu’s temporary home, is also featured.

Undoubtedly, filming pangolins presented a significant challenge. These animals are inherently elusive, primarily active at night, solitary, and generally avoid interaction.

The film’s emotional landscape is enhanced by the score, composed by Anne Nikitim, and possibly amplified by the “moving instrumentation and African vocals” mentioned in early reviews.

The film’s intimate focus on the relationship between Gareth and Kulu follows a common thread in contemporary wildlife filmmaking. While highly effective at creating emotional engagement, this personalization of an animal protagonist carries the inherent risk of anthropomorphism. However, this approach appears to be a strategic choice. By making the abstract threat of global wildlife trafficking deeply personal and tangible through Kulu’s vulnerability and Gareth’s dedication, the film aims to forge an emotional connection strong enough to overcome viewer apathy and convert passive viewing into active concern for the species’ fate.

Beyond the Screen: Connecting Kulu to Global Conservation

“Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey” shines a spotlight not only on Kulu but also on the individuals and organizations working on the front lines of pangolin conservation. Gareth Thomas is featured not just as a caregiver but also as an ambassador for the African Pangolin Working Group (APWG), the organization that played a pivotal role in Kulu’s rehabilitation and collaborated on the film’s production. Alexis Kriel, co-chair of the APWG, expressed hope that the documentary would generate crucial public awareness, driving the discussion and political will needed to change the species’ fate. The film also showcases the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve and its unique Pangolarium as vital conservation infrastructure. Notably, the Pangolarium receives funding from Lepogo Lodges, illustrating the potential link between sustainable tourism and direct conservation funding.

Kulu’s story unfolds within the context of extensive global conservation efforts. International bodies like the IUCN, through its Red List assessments, and specialist groups like the Pangolin Specialist Group, provide crucial scientific guidance and status updates. CITES provides the international legal framework attempting to curb this devastating trade. Numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are actively involved: WWF works on multiple fronts, including reducing consumer demand in Asia, supporting anti-poaching efforts, advocating for stronger laws, and co-convening the Coalition to End Wildlife Trafficking Online; TRAFFIC focuses on monitoring trade routes, conducting research, and running awareness campaigns; and IFAW works across the entire illegal trade chain, from training rangers to reducing demand. These international efforts are complemented by national strategies, such as Kenya’s National Recovery and Action Plan, and regional plans, like the Sunda Pangolin Conservation Strategy.

The documentary itself serves as a powerful component of these broader efforts, with the explicit goal of being more than just passive entertainment. By intimately portraying Kulu’s vulnerability and the dedication required for his survival, the film seeks to bridge the emotional distance that often characterizes large-scale conservation crises. It makes the impactful statistics of the pangolin trade personal and relatable, connecting one animal’s fight for life to the global struggle against wildlife trafficking. The hope is that this emotional connection will translate into tangible action, whether through raising awareness, supporting conservation organizations like APWG or WWF (which offers symbolic pangolin adoptions), reporting suspicious online wildlife product advertisements, or advocating for stricter enforcement of existing laws. Pippa Ehrlich’s own organization, Sea Change Project, while focused on marine conservation, exemplifies this model of using impactful storytelling to advocate for nature protection.

Our Take

“Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey” serves as an amplifier for a desperate plea. It stands as a powerful reminder that the pangolin’s fate hinges significantly on continued human action: strengthening law enforcement, dismantling trafficking networks, reducing demand for illegal products, protecting habitats, and supporting the conservationists working tirelessly on the ground.

Does it go straight for the heartstrings? Absolutely, yes.

We love animals, nature, and this adorable, utterly defenseless little creature is bound to steal your heart.

But make no mistake, this isn’t a sad story; it’s a wonderfully hopeful tale of a little animal who will ultimately achieve freedom.

Enjoy watching.

Where to Watch “Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey”

Netflix

‘The Brutalist’: Brady Corbet’s Architectural Odyssey, Starring Adrien Brody

“The Brutalist,” Brady Corbet’s monumental cinematic work, distinguishes itself through its aesthetic, narrative, and thematic ambition. An A24 production that has once again triumphed at the Academy Awards, it reaffirms the studio’s position at the forefront of daring and original filmmaking, evident from its opening credits and powerful thematic and aesthetic presence.

Starring a brilliant Adrien Brody, the film chronicles the complex odyssey of László Tóth, a Hungarian-Jewish architect who survives the Holocaust only to confront the promises and perils of the American Dream in the post-war era. Spanning over three and a half hours and unfolding across decades, this epic production captivated critics from its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where Corbet won the Silver Lion for Best Director. Its triumphant journey culminated in prestigious accolades, including multiple Golden Globes, BAFTA Awards, and three Oscars, including Best Actor for Brody. Its unique visual style, marked by the use of the VistaVision format, and the depth of its themes—the immigrant experience, the relationship between art and patronage, and the weight of trauma—solidify it as an essential work of contemporary cinema.

An Epic Post-War Journey: Synopsis

“The Brutalist” follows László Tóth (Adrien Brody), a visionary architect of Hungarian-Jewish origin, trained at the Bauhaus and a survivor of the Buchenwald concentration camp. In 1947, after World War II, he emigrates to the United States, seeking to rebuild his life and professional legacy, and reunite with his wife, Erzsébet (Felicity Jones), a journalist and Holocaust survivor (Dachau), and his orphaned niece, Zsófia (Raffey Cassidy), who initially remain trapped in Europe.

His arrival in Philadelphia is marked by struggle. He faces assimilation pressures from his cousin Attila (Alessandro Nivola), suffers initial setbacks that lead to destitution and even heroin addiction. However, his destiny changes dramatically when the enigmatic and wealthy industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce) recognizes his extraordinary talent and commissions him for a monumental project: the creation of the Van Buren Institute, an ambitious community center. As the film ominously suggests, “Amassing power and forging a legacy comes at a price.”

The Brutalist

The Characters

László Tóth (Adrien Brody): The protagonist is a complex blend of genius, trauma, ambition, and flaws. Brody’s own Hungarian and Jewish heritage adds an extra layer of authenticity to a performance that has been universally acclaimed and awarded.

Erzsébet Tóth (Felicity Jones): László’s wife is not a passive figure. As a journalist and survivor, she possesses keen perception and acts as a moral compass, demonstrating early skepticism towards Van Buren. Her own journey and perspective are central to the narrative.

Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce): The millionaire patron is a fascinating and ambiguous figure. His relationship with László is the axis around which much of the drama revolves, oscillating between mentorship, exploitation, and an underlying tension that some have interpreted as having romantic undertones. Pearce’s performance also garnered significant award nominations.

Supporting Cast: Figures such as Harry Lee Van Buren (Joe Alwyn), Harrison’s pretentious son; Zsófia (Raffey Cassidy), the niece rendered mute by trauma; Gordon (Isaach De Bankolé), László’s friend and fellow struggler; Attila (Alessandro Nivola), the assimilated cousin; and Maggie Van Buren (Stacy Martin), among others, complete a rich and complex human tapestry.

Under Brady Corbet’s ambitious direction, “The Brutalist” unfolds as an epic period drama, its narrative spanning several decades, from 1947 to the 1980s. Its considerable length, clocking in at 3 hours and 36 minutes (215-216 minutes), often presented with a 15-minute intermission in theatrical screenings, underscores its monumental scale.

The Construction of a Monument: Production and Visual Style

The journey to bring “The Brutalist” to the screen was as arduous and protracted as the story it tells. The project spanned seven years from its conception and writing to its release. Initial plans involved filming in Poland in 2021, but a series of obstacles, including the COVID-19 pandemic, funding challenges, and personal circumstances of the cast, such as Felicity Jones’s pregnancy, caused multiple delays and changes in the original cast. Corbet’s “relentless” determination, as he describes it, was key to overcoming these adversities.

It is particularly noteworthy that a film of this magnitude—with its epic ambition, period detail, complex themes, and the unusual choice of the VistaVision format—was realized with a remarkably low net budget, estimated at less than $10 million.

Principal photography finally began on March 16, 2023, in Budapest, Hungary. The choice of Hungary was due to a combination of practical factors (tax credits, film laboratories) and Corbet’s prior familiarity with the country. Budapest and its surroundings served to recreate the Philadelphia and rural Pennsylvania of the 1950s. The production also moved to Carrara, Italy, to film in the iconic marble quarries, a decision Corbet defended to financiers for its thematic importance, linked to the idea of possession and the reach of capitalism even over natural materials. Filming concluded on May 5, 2023, giving way to an extensive post-production phase of nearly twenty months. During this period, a minor controversy arose regarding the use of artificial intelligence, later clarified as the use of Respeecher technology to refine the accuracy of certain accents in the dialogue.

One of the most defining and audacious decisions of the production was to shoot a large portion of the film in VistaVision, a high-resolution 35mm format that uses 8 perforations per frame and runs the film horizontally. Cinematographer Lol Crawley and Corbet chose this format, largely unused since the 1960s, for several interconnected reasons. They sought an “archival” quality, a sense of the past that evoked the era portrayed (the 1950s to 1980s). Additionally, VistaVision’s wide field of view allowed them to capture the grandeur of the Brutalist architecture while minimizing the optical distortion common with wide-angle lenses in smaller formats. It was also a tribute to the cinema of the 1950s, including melodramas and Hitchcockian influences, and was intended for an immersive experience in 70mm screenings.

However, the commitment to VistaVision entailed enormous technical and logistical challenges. Very few functional cameras remain in the world; they are extremely heavy and bulky, and require specialized technicians. Post-production was equally complex, demanding 6K scans and generating a massive amount of data (700TB). Corbet even sacrificed shooting days to afford this format. This insistence on an obsolete and difficult-to-handle technology, despite budgetary constraints, demonstrates a profound artistic coherence. It was not a nostalgic whim, but a fundamental choice linked to the film’s themes (period authenticity, architectural scale) and the desired cinematic experience (70mm projection).

It should be noted that other formats were also used, such as standard 35mm, 16mm for certain textures, digital Betacam for the epilogue, and a single shot with an Alexa camera. Visual influences cited include the photography of Saul Leiter and the paintings of Andrew Wyeth and Edward Hopper.

Judy Becker’s production design was crucial in recreating the film’s world, constructing models and sets in Hungary. The costume design by Kate Forbes and the award-winning score by Daniel Blumberg complemented the aesthetic vision, along with the editing by Dávid Jancsó.

The film was a co-production between the United States, the United Kingdom, and Hungary, with the participation of production companies such as Brookstreet Pictures, Kaplan Morrison, Andrew Lauren Productions, and Intake Films. Distribution was handled by A24 in the United States and Universal Pictures / Focus Features internationally.

From the Venice Film Festival to the Oscars: Critical Reception and Awards

The world premiere of “The Brutalist” took place in the official competition of the 81st Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2024. The film made an immediate impact, receiving a standing ovation (reported to be up to 12 minutes long) and winning the prestigious Silver Lion for Best Director for Brady Corbet. It was also screened at other festivals, such as the SEMINCI in Valladolid.

The awards season confirmed “The Brutalist”‘s status as a heavyweight. Its journey was impressive:

Academy Awards (97th edition): It garnered 10 nominations, tying as the second most nominated film of the year. It won 3 awards: Best Actor (Adrien Brody), Best Cinematography (Lol Crawley), and Best Original Score (Daniel Blumberg). It was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor (Guy Pearce), Best Supporting Actress (Felicity Jones), Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing, and Best Production Design.

Golden Globe Awards (82nd edition): It received 7 nominations and won 3 of the main categories: Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, and Best Actor – Drama (Brody).

BAFTA Awards: It accumulated multiple nominations and key victories, including Best Director, Best Actor, Best Cinematography, and Best Original Score.

Other Recognition: It was included in the American Film Institute’s (AFI) Top 10 Films of the Year, received 9 nominations at the Critics’ Choice Awards (winning Best Actor for Brody), and garnered numerous awards from film critic associations.

Our Opinion

This film is a double reflection and a reminder: it cost 10 million dollars and, nevertheless, has an epic dimension and an unparalleled aesthetic ambition. It is full of nuances, grand sets, and has enormous visual power—a result that almost no one achieves, even with budgets exceeding 100 million.

This film is a milestone in that sense, and demonstrates that, with intelligence and creativity, almost anything is possible.

To say that “The Brutalist” is good falls short: it is brilliant in almost everything, especially aesthetically. In addition, it has characters full of history, interesting, dramatic, and, moreover, narratively complex, real, and well-drawn.

The film does not offer easy answers. It explores the complexities of historical trauma, the moral ambiguity of success, the tense relationship between art and power, and the painful search for identity and belonging of the immigrant. Its connection to Brutalist architecture, more metaphorical than literal, adds a layer of meaning that invites reflection on how the spaces we build reflect our individual and collective psychologies.

“The Brutalist” is the kind of movie that some call pretentious, and that, contrary to their opinion, we love at this magazine.

Highly recommended.

Heavenly Ever After, the New Korean Series Hitting Netflix and JTBC

They say beauty is relative, but maybe it’s also true that we looked better when we were young. “Heavenly Ever After” is a new Netflix story that plays with this fundamental truth, even taking it into the afterlife, featuring a woman who decides to keep her elderly appearance, even beyond death.

“Heavenly Ever After” (Korean: 천국보다 아름다운) stars Kim Hye-ja and features a cast including Son Suk-ku, Han Ji-min, and Lee Jung-eun, among others.

Synopsis: When ‘Forever’ Gets Complicated by Age and Memory

The narrative centers on Lee Hae-sook, a woman whose life has been marked by resilience. After an accident claimed the life of her husband, Ko Nak-joon, she became the sole provider for her family, working tirelessly for years. Upon her death at 80, Hae-sook finds herself at the “Heaven Admission Office,” a celestial processing point where newcomers typically choose to revert to a younger version of themselves to spend eternity.

However, Hae-sook makes a profoundly unusual choice: she decides to keep her 80-year-old appearance. This decision stems from a cherished memory of her husband’s words. Nak-joon had lovingly told her something specific that resonated deeply. Hae-sook enters the afterlife as she is, becoming the only known person in this version of heaven to forgo the chance at rejuvenation.

Her reunion with Nak-joon is fraught with mutual surprise. He awaits her in a beautiful, idyllic home he built in heaven during his time there. But when they meet, Hae-sook is stunned to see him restored to the prime of his youth, at 30 years old, while Nak-joon is equally taken aback by her elderly appearance.

The very words Nak-joon spoke, intended to lovingly affirm Hae-sook’s beauty at any age, especially in her later years, ironically lead Hae-sook to make a choice that creates a significant physical and emotional distance between them in their heavenly reunion.

As they adjust to this very celestial new reality, the story delves into the rediscovery of love, identity, and the need for compromise in a seemingly limitless world bound by their contrasting forms. Nak-joon, meanwhile, occupies his time working as a “celestial mailman,” delivering letters containing wishes and sentiments from Earth, connecting the realms of the living and the dead.

Heavenly Ever After – Netflix

The Cast Bringing Heaven (and its Complications) to Life

Leading the series is Kim Hye-ja as Lee Hae-sook. A revered figure in Korean entertainment, Kim Hye-ja brings decades of experience and profound emotional depth to the role. Her performance in the 2019 drama The Light in Your Eyes earned her the prestigious Grand Prize (Daesang) at the 55th Baeksang Arts Awards, and she is known for captivating audiences in works like Our Blues and Dear My Friends. Reports suggest she was drawn to this project specifically because of the story’s uniqueness and the chance to reunite with the creative team from The Light in Your Eyes, which holds special significance for her given her age.

Starring alongside her is Son Suk-ku as Ko Nak-joon. Son has rapidly risen to fame, becoming a household name, particularly after his role as the enigmatic “Mr. Gu” in My Liberation Notes, a performance that generated significant buzz. His impressive resume also includes key roles in A Killer Paradox, D.P., and Designated Survivor: 60 Days. In “Heavenly Ever After,” he plays Nak-joon, a devoted husband who finds himself physically mismatched with his wife in the afterlife, where he works as a celestial mailman while trying to bring them back together. Son expressed immediate enthusiasm for the project upon learning he would star opposite Kim Hye-ja, trusting the director’s vision, having worked with him previously on My Liberation Notes.

The supporting cast further strengthens the production, featuring several well-known and respected actors: Han Ji-min plays Som-yi, described as a mysterious woman who suddenly appears in heaven and might have some connection to Nak-joon; Lee Jung-eun portrays Lee Young-ae, an important figure in Hae-sook’s earthly life, akin to a mother or teacher; Chun Ho-jin takes on the role of the center director, the warm and approachable head of the Celestial Support Center; and Ryu Deok-hwan appears as a pastor who finds new meaning in his afterlife upon meeting the devout Hae-sook.

The Creative Team

“Heavenly Ever After” marks a reunion for its core creative team: director Kim Sok-yun and writers Lee Nam-kyu and Kim Su-jin. This trio was responsible for the acclaimed and beloved 2019 JTBC series The Light in Your Eyes.

That series, which also starred Kim Hye-ja and Han Ji-min, with Lee Jung-eun in a supporting role, was praised for its blend of humor, heartbreak, and profound exploration of time, memory, and the value of life. Kim Hye-ja’s award-winning performance in The Light in Your Eyes cemented its status as a modern classic within Korean dramas.

Forget Futurism: This Isn’t Black Mirror

“Heavenly Ever After” doesn’t aim to be a grim series about the afterlife; it’s an intimate and touching show that, mixing comedy and drama, uses emotion as its main driving force.

Thus, heaven is depicted as a peaceful rural village with established rules where everyone fulfills their role, peacefully and without stress, to enjoy a good eternal life.

That said, we’ll have to wait and see, as these are all speculations based on the first episode, and our protagonist has barely emerged from the large box she was shipped to the Celestial Kingdom in.

This structured, potentially technologically influenced afterlife invites comparisons to other Korean dramas exploring similar themes. While perhaps not as overtly focused on judgment as the film Along With the Gods or the structured spirit management of Hotel Del Luna, the setting of “Heavenly Ever After” seems designed for more than just romantic encounters. It evokes parallels with the technologically constructed, memory-based afterlife of Yonder or even the philosophical and comedic explorations of afterlife systems seen in Western series like The Good Place—a comparison noted by some fans awaiting the show. This framework allows the series to potentially use its setting to explore deeper questions about conformity, the nature of happiness, and what constitutes a perfect existence, even in “heaven.”

About the Series

“Heavenly Ever After” delves into the rich landscape of South Korean dramas that utilize fantasy elements, particularly those dealing with themes of the afterlife, reincarnation, or time manipulation. Its premise places it alongside popular series such as Hotel Del Luna, Goblin: The Lonely and Great God, Tomorrow, and Move to Heaven, all of which explore death, grief, and the connections between the living and the departed in unique ways.

However, the most pertinent comparison remains The Light in Your Eyes (2019), given their shared creative DNA. Both dramas feature Kim Hye-ja in a central role grappling with unconventional temporal circumstances, helmed by the same director and writers. While The Light in Your Eyes used a time-travel-related fantasy element to explore aging, regret, and the preciousness of everyday moments, “Heavenly Ever After” uses the afterlife and an age swap to examine enduring love, identity across life stages, and the meaning of connection beyond physical form. Both series are expected to deliver poignant, character-driven stories that resonate deeply with viewers, focusing on human bonds even within fantastical settings.

The potential cultural significance of “Heavenly Ever After” lies in its unique treatment of age and appearance within the context of eternal love. By having its elderly protagonist choose to remain old in a heaven where youth is the norm, the series directly challenges conventional beauty standards and the societal emphasis on youth. Hae-sook’s decision, rooted in her husband’s validation of her aged beauty, becomes a powerful statement about self-acceptance and the value of lived experience. The drama’s focus on the couple’s emotional connection overcoming their physical age gap offers a platform to explore themes of inner beauty, the essence of partnership, and whether love can truly transcend physical appearance and the ravages of time. The involvement of Kim Hye-ja, who has expressed this might be her final work, adds a layer of poignancy to these explorations of life, legacy, and lasting relationships.

How to Watch

“Heavenly Ever After” premiered on South Korea’s JTBC network on April 19, 2025, airing every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 PM KST. International audiences in select regions can stream the series on Netflix. The show is planned for 12 episodes, each approximately one hour long.

Our Take

“Heavenly Ever After” is a moving, gentle, romantic, and tender series that invites us to question if love is truly forever.

Or perhaps, in that eternal life, we might finally find the ideal partner we all seek.

Enjoy the show.

Where to Watch “Heavenly Ever After”

Netflix

“Mid-Century Modern” on Hulu and Disney+: A Hilarious and Heartfelt Look at Aging, Chosen Family, and Life in Palm Springs

“Mid-Century Modern” introduces us to three gay friends living in Palm Springs. The question inevitably arises: is this some kind of updated version of “The Golden Girls” (1985-1992), that beloved sitcom from years past? We’ll see.

The latest comedy series from Hulu and Disney+, “Mid-Century Modern,” has quickly garnered attention for its blend of familiar sitcom charm and a distinctly contemporary perspective. From “Will & Grace” creators Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, this ten-episode series introduces audiences to a trio of unforgettable characters navigating life, love, and aging in the vibrant setting of Palm Springs, California.

The Plot

“Mid-Century Modern” centers on Bunny Schneiderman (Nathan Lane), Jerry Frank (Matt Bomer), and Arthur Broussard (Nathan Lee Graham), three gay best friends who find themselves living together after the passing of a mutual friend. Bunny, a successful lingerie entrepreneur, resides in a stylish mid-century modern home with his headstrong mother, Sybil Schneiderman (Linda Lavin). Jerry, a kind-hearted former Mormon, works as a flight attendant. Arthur, bringing sophisticated flair from his past as a Vogue editor, is adjusting to life in Palm Springs and the challenges of finding new professional footing.

The series kicks off with Bunny’s generous invitation for Jerry and Arthur to move into his home. As they embark on this new chapter, viewers are treated to a comedic and touching exploration of their intertwined lives. Storylines hint at Bunny’s search for romance, Arthur’s often humorous experiences in the local job market, and glimpses into Jerry’s past, including a strained relationship with his daughter. Central to the show is the unwavering support and camaraderie the three friends find in their chosen family as they navigate the complexities of their later years. The series also addresses the absence of Linda Lavin’s character, Sybil, following the beloved actress’s real-life passing during production.

The Cast

The success of “Mid-Century Modern” is significantly bolstered by its stellar cast. Nathan Lane plays Bunny with his signature comedic brilliance, while Matt Bomer showcases his versatility in a charmingly comedic role as Jerry. Nathan Lee Graham brings delightful elegance and sharp wit to the character of Arthur. In her final television appearance, Linda Lavin infuses Sybil with her characteristic warmth and comedic timing. The talented ensemble includes Pamela Adlon as Bunny’s sister Mindy, Richard Kind as Carol Mintz, Zane Phillips as Mason, and Billie Lourd as Jerry’s daughter Becca.

Mid-Century Modern

Behind the Camera

The series boasts an A-list team. Creators, writers, and executive producers Max Mutchnick and David Kohan bring their extensive sitcom expertise to the project. They are joined by executive producers Ryan Murphy and veteran director James Burrows, who directs the series and whose legendary career includes iconic shows like “Cheers” and “Friends.” Nathan Lane and Matt Bomer also serve as executive producers. The show further features an impressive roster of guest stars, including Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Vanessa Bayer, Kim Coles, Judd Hirsch, Rhea Perlman, and Cheri Oteri.

The Style of “Mid-Century Modern”

“Mid-Century Modern” adopts a traditional multi-camera sitcom style, complete with a live studio audience, contributing to its comforting and familiar feel. However, the themes explored within this framework provide contemporary resonance. The series delves into the experiences of aging, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting both the challenges and joys unique to this stage of life. At its heart, the show celebrates the profound bonds of chosen family, emphasizing the strength and support found in deep friendships. The complexities of love and relationships in later life are also a major theme, with each character navigating their own romantic journey. The show also touches upon themes of grief and loss, given the circumstances that bring the friends together and the subsequent passing of Sybil. Jerry’s background as a former Mormon allows for explorations of religious identity and acceptance. Ultimately, “Mid-Century Modern” delivers a tone that is often campy, consistently witty, and frequently sentimental, while remaining unapologetically queer in its depiction of LGBTQ+ lives.

While the title directly references the “Mid-Century Modern” aesthetic, the show’s connection to this era primarily comes through its setting in Palm Springs, a city celebrated for its iconic mid-century modern architecture. The set design and costuming offer subtle nods to this style. Although the series is set in the present day, potential thematic links exist to the social and cultural context of the mid-20th century, particularly concerning evolving social norms and identities. Interestingly, the production design incorporates other desert styles beyond mid-century modern, adding visual richness to the show’s aesthetic.

The writing by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan brings their signature blend of sharp wit and emotional depth, a style proven successful during their tenure on “Will & Grace.” Direction by sitcom veteran James Burrows ensures smooth pacing and effective comedic delivery. The performances by the lead actors have been widely praised, with Nathan Lane delivering his expected comedic mastery and Matt Bomer surprising audiences with his comedic timing. Nathan Lee Graham has been noted for his scene-stealing moments. A particularly poignant aspect of the production was how the series handled the passing of Linda Lavin, with a dedicated episode serving as a heartfelt tribute.

Comparing Two Sitcoms

Comparisons to “The Golden Girls” have been a recurring point of discussion. While both shows feature a group of adults over fifty sharing a home and a comedic approach to life and friendship, “Mid-Century Modern” distinguishes itself with its focus on an all-male, explicitly queer central cast. The creators and actors have acknowledged these similarities, with co-creator Max Mutchnick noting that the “Gay Golden Girls” comparison is a helpful shorthand for the show’s concept. However, they also emphasize that “Mid-Century Modern” aims to be its own unique entity, exploring contemporary themes and humor relevant to today’s audiences. Nathan Lane has also commented on this, stating the goal wasn’t simply to replicate “The Golden Girls” but to honor multi-camera sitcom traditions while offering something fresh. A key difference lies in the show’s willingness to explore more explicit LGBTQ+ content with a candor not typically seen on network television during “The Golden Girls” era.

“Mid-Century Modern” offers a delightful blend of classic sitcom elements and modern perspectives. With a talented cast and experienced creators, the series delivers laughs and genuine emotion as it delves into the lives of three gay friends navigating their golden years in Palm Springs.

All ten episodes of “Mid-Century Modern” premiered on March 28, 2025.

Where to Watch “Mid-Century Modern” (Depending on your location)

Disney+

Hulu

“The Narrow Road to the Deep North”: A Prime Video Series Exploring Love, War, and Unforgettable Scars

Prime Video’s latest offering, “The Narrow Road to the Deep North,” arrives with significant anticipation as it adapts Richard Flanagan’s Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name. Flanagan’s literary masterpiece garnered widespread acclaim for its profound exploration of love, suffering, and the indelible marks left by war. The series promises to bring to the screen the epic story of Lieutenant Colonel Dorrigo Evans, a prisoner of war haunted by a passionate love affair, navigating the complexities of memory, trauma, and the indomitable human spirit. Behind the camera, the series is helmed by acclaimed Australian filmmaker Justin Kurzel, known for intense and often unsettling works like “Snowtown” and “Nitram.” The task of adapting Flanagan’s intricate narrative fell to screenwriter Shaun Grant, a frequent collaborator of Kurzel’s.

The Cast

The series boasts a cast led by Jacob Elordi, portraying the young Dorrigo Evans. Elordi, known for his roles in “Euphoria” and “Saltburn,” takes on his first major Australian project, a testament to the series’ ambition. The older, more weathered Dorrigo is played by the acclaimed Irish actor Ciarán Hinds. Odessa Young brings Amy Mulvaney, the woman who captures Dorrigo’s heart, to life. The ensemble also includes Olivia DeJonge as the younger Ella Evans and Heather Mitchell as the older Ella, Simon Baker as Keith Mulvaney, and Shō Kasamatsu as Major Nakamura.

The Narrow Road to the Deep North

The Plot

“The Narrow Road to the Deep North” weaves a poignant narrative across three distinct yet interconnected timelines. The earliest timeline immerses viewers in the 1940s, depicting the burgeoning, forbidden romance between young medical student Dorrigo Evans and Amy Mulvaney, his uncle’s wife, set against the serene yet intimate backdrop of rural Adelaide. Their connection is portrayed as intense and all-consuming, a brief but unforgettable moment of passion that will profoundly shape Dorrigo’s life. Contrasting this passionate past is the brutal reality of 1943, where Dorrigo, now a Lieutenant Colonel, and his fellow Australian soldiers are prisoners of war, forced into slave labor on the infamous Thai-Burma Railway, often called the “Death Railway.” The series unflinchingly depicts the inhumane conditions, relentless labor, malnutrition, and the constant threat of disease and violence at the hands of their Japanese captors.

Amidst this suffering, the bonds of camaraderie become a vital source of strength and resilience for the prisoners. Characters like the conflicted Major Nakamura and the brutal Korean guard known as the Goanna highlight the complex dynamics of power and survival within the camp. The final timeline shifts to the 1980s, where an older Dorrigo Evans is a celebrated surgeon and reluctant war hero, living in comfortable circumstances but haunted by the ghosts of his past and the memory of Amy. Despite his apparent success, Dorrigo grapples with the emotional scars of war and the lingering ache of lost love, navigating complex relationships, including his marriage to Ella and a later-life affair.

Based on Richard Flanagan’s Novel

The Prime Video series is a direct adaptation of Richard Flanagan’s acclaimed novel, a work that earned significant literary recognition, including the prestigious Man Booker Prize. The adaptation was penned by Shaun Grant, who brought a personal connection to the story, as his grandfather was a POW on the Burma Railway. Flanagan himself served as an executive producer on the series, suggesting a high level of collaboration and approval of the adaptation. The novel is known for its extensive exploration of Dorrigo’s inner thoughts and feelings, which the series must convey through visual storytelling and dialogue. The book also delves into the perspectives of both the prisoners and their captors, including the motivations of Major Nakamura, which may be condensed or adapted for the series’ five-episode format. The novel’s structure, with its intricate layering of time and perspectives, also undergoes some adjustments to fit the constraints of a television series. However, the involvement of both a screenwriter with a personal connection to the history and the original author as an executive producer suggests a commitment to honoring the spirit and impact of Flanagan’s powerful work.

The Historical Context

Set against the backdrop of World War II, “The Narrow Road to the Deep North” specifically focuses on the harrowing experiences surrounding the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway in 1943. The series vividly portrays the brutal realities faced by Australian prisoners of war under Japanese captivity, forced into slave labor to build this strategically important railway. Richard Flanagan’s own father was a survivor of the Burma Railway, lending a deeply personal and likely authentic perspective to the novel and, by extension, the series. Screenwriter Shaun Grant also shares this personal connection through his grandfather’s wartime experiences. The series unflinchingly portrays the dehumanizing effects of war crimes and the immense psychological toll inflicted upon the prisoners, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable suffering. By grounding its narrative in this specific historical context, “The Narrow Road to the Deep North” offers viewers a dramatized yet potentially impactful glimpse into a significant and often overlooked chapter of World War II history.

Filming and Production

Production for “The Narrow Road to the Deep North” took place in New South Wales, Australia, providing an authentic backdrop for the story. The series is a collaborative effort involving several production companies, including Curio Pictures, Screen Australia, Amazon MGM Studios, and Sony Pictures Television. Executive producers overseeing the project include Justin Kurzel, Shaun Grant, Richard Flanagan, Jo Porter, and Rachel Gardner, with Alexandra Taussig serving as producer. The journey to bring this complex story to the screen has been lengthy, with the initial announcement of the adaptation occurring back in 2018 and filming concluding in March 2024.

Where to Watch “The Narrow Road to the Deep North”

Prime Video

Netflix’s “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” Revisits the Roots of Domestic Hate

Netflix brings us “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror,” a documentary directed by Greg Tillman. Thirty years after the deadliest act of domestic terrorism shook the nation’s heartland, its impact remains deeply embedded in the collective psyche. The documentary goes beyond the horrific events to dissect the anti-government sentiments that fueled the attack, raising unsettling questions about the persistence of such extremism in America today.

The Day the Heartland Bled

At 9:02 AM on what began as a bright spring Wednesday in Oklahoma City, a rented Ryder truck packed with a devastating bomb detonated in front of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The blast, orchestrated by former U.S. Army soldier Timothy McVeigh with assistance from Terry Nichols, ripped through the nine-story structure, instantly reducing a third of it to rubble and pancaked floors. The human cost was catastrophic: 168 people lost their lives, including 19 children, many of whom were in the building’s second-floor daycare center. The youngest victim was just four months old. Over 684 others were injured, some critically. The explosion, estimated to have been caused by a 4,000- to 5,000-pound bomb made from ammonium nitrate fertilizer and fuel oil, was felt for miles and left downtown Oklahoma City resembling a warzone. More than 300 nearby buildings were damaged or destroyed, with the financial toll exceeding $650 million. In the immediate aftermath, amidst the smoke, sirens, and chaos, suspicion initially turned towards international terrorist groups, echoing fears sparked by the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. However, the chilling reality soon emerged: this was an attack carried out on home soil, the deadliest manifestation of domestic terrorism in U.S. history.

The Seeds of Hate: Waco, Ruby Ridge, and the Rise of Anti-Government Fury

“Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” compellingly argues that the Oklahoma City bombing did not occur in a vacuum. It meticulously traces the attack’s roots to a specific, virulent strain of anti-government extremism that flourished in the early 1990s, fueled by events that became rallying cries for the radical right and the burgeoning militia movement. The documentary highlights two pivotal incidents: the deadly FBI standoff with the Weaver family at Ruby Ridge, Idaho, and the fiery conclusion to the 51-day siege of the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, Texas – exactly two years prior to the Oklahoma City attack. McVeigh, a Gulf War veteran increasingly disillusioned with the federal government, visited the Waco site during and after the siege. He, along with Nichols and others in the militia movement, viewed Ruby Ridge and Waco as proof of a tyrannical government waging war on its own citizens, particularly those exercising their Second Amendment rights. This narrative was amplified by conspiracy theories about a looming “New World Order” and fears stoked by gun control measures like the Brady Bill. McVeigh saw federal agents as soldiers and chose the Murrah Building, which housed agencies like the ATF, DEA, and Secret Service, as a strike against their command center. “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” effectively portrays how these specific events, filtered through a lens of paranoia and extremist literature like The Turner Diaries, transformed McVeigh’s anti-government sentiment into murderous resolve.

The Manhunt and the Shadow of Conspiracy

The documentary chronicles the massive FBI investigation, codenamed “OKBOMB,” which ultimately involved tens of thousands of interviews and leads and amassed tons of evidence. The narrative underscores how the case was cracked through a combination of meticulous forensic work and remarkable chance. A crucial piece of evidence emerged when investigators recovered the rear axle of the Ryder truck, yielding the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that led them to a rental agency in Junction City, Kansas. Eyewitness descriptions from the rental agency helped create a composite sketch of the renter, identified by staff at a local motel as “Tim McVeigh.” Chance proved equally decisive. Just 90 minutes after the blast, Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Charlie Hanger stopped a yellow Mercury Marquis driving without a license plate about 80 miles north of Oklahoma City. The driver, Timothy McVeigh, was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon. When the FBI linked the renter’s name to McVeigh, they discovered their prime suspect was already in custody, just hours away from being released. This fortuitous arrest was critical, as evidence found on McVeigh’s clothing upon arrest contained residue of the chemicals used in the bomb. The investigation quickly uncovered the conspiracy, identifying McVeigh’s Army buddy, Terry Nichols, as a key accomplice who helped acquire materials and build the bomb. Another Army friend, Michael Fortier, knew of the plot and later testified against McVeigh and Nichols in exchange for a reduced sentence. “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” also acknowledges, though perhaps doesn’t dwell on, the persistent conspiracy theories that have shadowed the official account for decades – questions about other accomplices (“John Doe #2”), alleged links to white supremacist compounds like Elohim City, or even foreign involvement. While the documentary largely seems to adhere to the official investigation’s findings, its exploration of McVeigh’s connections to the broader extremist movement implicitly touches upon the murky aspects and unanswered questions that continue to fuel alternative theories, leaving the viewer wondering about the full extent of the network that supported McVeigh’s path to violence.

The Scars That Remain: Voices of the Survivors and the Lost

Where “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” makes its most profound impact is in its portrayal of the human toll. The documentary skillfully juxtaposes the abstract, hate-fueled motivations of the perpetrators with the tangible, lifelong suffering inflicted upon victims, survivors, and their families. Through archival footage and potentially new interviews, the film gives voice to those whose lives were irrevocably changed. We hear stories like that of Florence Rogers, who miraculously survived on a narrow ledge after her third-floor credit union office was obliterated, losing eight colleagues she had worked with for decades. The film features PJ Allen, the youngest survivor of the bombing at just 18 months old, who still bears the physical scars—severe burns and lung damage affecting his voice and breathing—but stands decades later as an example of resilience and purpose. The grief of families is palpable, exemplified by Aren Almon, whose one-year-old daughter Baylee became an unwitting symbol of lost innocence through an iconic, heartbreaking photograph taken by an amateur photographer at the scene. Firefighter Chris Fields, captured in that photo cradling Baylee, represents the thousands of rescuers who confronted unimaginable horror and trauma.

Justice, Security, and the Legacy of Fear

The documentary examines the swift and complex legal and policy responses to the bombing. Timothy McVeigh’s federal trial was moved to Denver due to concerns about finding an impartial jury in Oklahoma. He was convicted on 11 counts, including the murders of eight federal law enforcement officers, and sentenced to death. McVeigh was executed by lethal injection. Terry Nichols faced a more complex legal path. In his separate federal trial, he was convicted of conspiracy and eight counts of involuntary manslaughter related to the slain federal agents. However, the federal jury deadlocked on the death penalty, resulting in a sentence of life without parole. Since the federal charges only covered the eight federal agents, the state of Oklahoma subsequently tried Nichols for the murders of the remaining 160 victims, plus one count of fetal homicide. A state jury convicted him on all 161 murder counts but again deadlocked on the death penalty, leading to another sentence of life without parole. This dual prosecution underscored the legal system’s determination to hold Nichols accountable for every life lost, even if the ultimate penalty remained elusive.

Governmental Aftermath and Legislative Changes

Beyond the trials, the bombing spurred significant legislative and policy shifts. Congress passed the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act (AEDPA). While aimed at deterring terrorism and providing justice for victims, AEDPA controversially restricted habeas corpus appeals, tightened immigration laws, and expanded federal authority over terrorism-related crimes. Following a vulnerability assessment ordered by President Clinton, Executive Order 12977 established the Interagency Security Committee (ISC) to create uniform security standards. This led to the widespread implementation of previously uncommon measures: concrete barriers (initially Jersey barriers, later permanent installations), increased building setbacks from streets, enhanced visitor screening (magnetometers, X-ray machines), blast-resistant windows and structural design, and heightened surveillance.

“Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” Today: Echoes of Extremism

The true power of “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror” lies in its argument for the bombing’s urgent contemporary relevance. It positions the attack not merely as a historical event, but as a terrifying precursor to the anti-government extremism, conspiracy theories, and potential for political violence that continue to trouble the United States. The film suggests that the ideologies motivating McVeigh—deep distrust of federal authority, perceived threats to liberties, and a willingness to resort to violence—have not disappeared but have evolved and found new platforms. The bombing occurred on April 19, 1995.

Where to Watch “Oklahoma City Bombing: American Terror”

Netflix

“¡Hostage” on Netflix: A Real-Life Hostage Thriller

Directed by Bobby Boermans, known for his work on crime series like The Golden Hour and Mocro Maffia, “¡Hostage” plunges viewers into a harrowing recreation of the real-life hostage situation that paralyzed Amsterdam’s Leidseplein.

This is a tense thriller, unfolding over a few intense hours, with its power rooted in the editing and pacing. The script is solid, analyzing the situation from multiple perspectives and moving swiftly within the genre.

It’s entertaining, fast-paced, and well-produced – the perfect kind of film for a Friday night.

The Real-Life Amsterdam Incident

A 27-year-old man, identified as Abdel Rahman Akkad, dressed in camouflage clothing and armed with multiple firearms, entered the crowded Apple Store in Amsterdam’s Leidseplein. Akkad, reportedly an employee of a supermarket chain who used his work truck to get there, quickly escalated the situation, firing shots and claiming to have a bomb vest.

While many customers and employees managed to escape or hide, Akkad took several people hostage, singling out a 44-year-old Bulgarian man as his primary captive. For five agonizing hours, the city held its breath as police surrounded the building. Akkad demanded an astonishing €200 million (approximately £172 million at the time) in cryptocurrency and safe passage out of the city.

The standoff reached its climax when the Bulgarian hostage managed to escape. Akkad briefly pursued him outside the store, but police decisively intervened, running the assailant down with an armored vehicle. Akkad died in the hospital the following day from his injuries. Dutch police chief Frank Paauw later praised the Bulgarian man’s bravery.

Inside “¡Hostage”: Plot, Perspectives, and Gripping Tension

“¡Hostage” translates this real-world drama into a cinematic experience of just over an hour and a half. The plot follows Ilian (played by Admir Šehović), a Bulgarian man visiting Amsterdam for work who finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. He enters the Apple Store just as the gunman (Soufiane Moussouli) begins his assault, quickly becoming the primary hostage.

The film employs a multi-reality narrative, successfully conveying the multiple angles of the event. The events are shown not only from Ilian’s terrifying perspective but also through the eyes of the increasingly desperate attacker, other hostages hidden in the store, and the police, including negotiator Lynn (Loes Haverkort), who works frantically outside to defuse the crisis.

One aspect we appreciated is that, despite being based on a true story, the film doesn’t attempt a documentary approach. It’s pure pace, action, and strong cinematic construction, constantly seeking the tension of the events, recreating characters, and capturing the agile essence of the classic hostage thriller.

“¡Hostage” is also a classic film that adheres to the genre. Without inventing anything new, it aims to entertain and amuse, delivering a spectacle of cinematic rhythm and ultimately becoming a thriller that leaves a good taste, without necessarily making a huge impact or feeling like a great film.

It fulfills its function with good production values and solid technical and directorial work.

However, it doesn’t take risks or offer anything we haven’t seen before.

Enjoy the film!

Where to Watch “¡Hostage”

Netflix