Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 52

Gongkan’s Artistic Exploration of Identity and Transformation

In the heart of Hong Kong’s vibrant art scene, a provocative solo exhibition emerges, challenging conventional boundaries of cultural identity, social norms, and personal experience. Thai artist Gongkan, born Kantapon Metheekul, presents “Asynchronous Affinities” at Tang Contemporary Art, offering a profound meditation on displacement, interconnection, and the complex landscapes of human emotion.

Gongkan’s artistic practice defies simple categorization. His work, dubbed “Teleport Art”, traverses temporal and spatial dimensions, creating intricate visual narratives that speak to the fragmented experiences of contemporary global citizens. Spherical shapes—planetary rings, rainbows, and balloons—serve as metaphorical contact zones, expressing a nuanced range of human emotions from resistance to vulnerability.

Gongkan. Private Hot Springs｜Acrylic on canvas｜100 x 150 cm｜ 2025

The exhibition delves deep into the concept of “Right Person / Wrong Time”, a poetic exploration of misaligned human connections. Through his distinctive visual language, Gongkan deconstructs social and cultural barriers, presenting viewers with transformative imagery that challenges established paradigms of identity and belonging.

His paintings reveal a sophisticated technique of layered, transitioning colors that push the boundaries of traditional artistic representation. Each canvas becomes a portal into a surrealistic realm where human figures navigate complex emotional and cultural terrains. The artist’s minimal patterns and simplified figures create a visual vocabulary that is at once intimate and universal.

One particularly striking installation features a Chinese table with a motorized center, presenting “dishes” crafted from societal artifacts—fast fashion clothes knotted like culinary preparations, magazine strips forming noodles, and stacked CDs mimicking Peking duck wraps. This unexpected composition raises profound questions about consumption, cultural intersections, and the rapid transformations of contemporary society.

Gongkan’s personal history significantly informs his artistic perspective. With roots in the Teo Chew community and professional experience in New York’s creative landscape, he embodies the complexity of transcultural identities. His work becomes a bridge, connecting disparate experiences and challenging viewers to reconsider rigid notions of self and community.

The exhibition also includes a touching video piece, “Confinements to Expectation”, where the artist symbolically cuts ropes binding him to familial expectations—a powerful metaphor for personal liberation and generational dialogue.

Through “Asynchronous Affinities”, Gongkan offers more than an art exhibition. He presents a nuanced exploration of human connectivity, inviting audiences to traverse emotional and cultural landscapes that exist beyond traditional boundaries.

The exhibition will run from March 22 to May 14, 2025, at Tang Contemporary Art’s space in Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong.

“The Potato Lab”: A New Romantic Comedy on Netflix… Korean Style

As is customary on some Saturdays, Netflix brings us an entertaining romantic comedy with the particular style of these Korean productions and their eccentric sense of humor, which, mixed with touches of romance, make these productions entertaining, charming, and light.

This time, the action takes us to a potato laboratory and the bizarre relationship between one of the scientists, Kim Mi-kyung (played by Lee Sun-bin), and one of the executives of the large company that owns the laboratory, So Baek-ho, portrayed by actor Kang Tae-oh. His financial vision of efficiency and her altruistic dreams theoretically make them incompatible… or maybe not?

The Potato Lab – Netflix

About the Series

“The Potato Lab” is one of those classic Korean romantic comedy series: a familiar humor but with a cheeky touch, and in between, a love story. A central story with the improbable love of these two protagonists and secondary characters, skillfully crafted to make us laugh, make this repetitive formula almost synonymous with success.

“The Potato Lab” does not reinvent television series or comedies nor does it have the slightest intention of doing so: it is a production with a simple but effective formula, and being aware of the formula’s success, it is applied. It is entertaining, simple, and pleasant to watch.

As usual, Netflix has aired only one episode, but it has been enough to see that between the two protagonists, discrepancies, coexistence, and… we are sure something more will arise. An ideal comedy for those viewers who simply want to enjoy a classic, entertaining, and fun story without any kind of conflict.

Enjoy it.

Where To Watch “The Potato Lab”

Netflix

New Book Explores Greta Gerwig’s Artistic Journey and Impact on Cinema

In her new book, Greta: The Work, Life, and Style of Greta Gerwig, author and journalist Selena Fragassi delves into the evolving life and career of Greta Gerwig, showcasing her profound influences that have inspired and empowered many, both within Hollywood and beyond.

The actor, writer, and director probably best known (at the moment) for the ground-breaking blockbuster film Barbie, Greta Gerwig, is an icon to young women who hope to follow in her footsteps and pursue their own creative passions. But what has driven her to create such timely and socially conscious films, and what inspires her artistic vision? 

Gretaseeks to answer these questions, with a deep dive into the inspirations and meanings behind her directorial works, from 2023’s blockbuster Barbie to the beloved 2019 adaptation of Little Women and the award-winning Lady Bird from 2017. It offers a comprehensive look at her filmography, including the four films she’s directed, 12 she’s written, and 26 she’s acted in. The book explores what has influenced her career path, drawing from classic literature (as seen in her adaptation of Little Women) to her own California girlhood (depicted in Lady Bird). 

Additionally, Greta examines the director’s impact on independent cinema, female agency and identity, and her efforts to bring more women into the film industry. The book is filled with iconic quotes from Greta and her closest collaborators about her work, her ambitions, and what lies ahead for this celebrated filmmaker. 

An intriguing account of where this talented filmmaker has been and where her future might take her, this is a must-have volume for every Greta Gerwig fan.

Publishing June 10, 2025 by Epic Ink

Hardcover, 208 pages ∙ $19.99 US. $25.99 CAN ∙ 9780760395653

Socialite and Philanthropist Michelle-Marie Heinemann Celebrates Her Lifelong Passion for Opera and the Arts

Socialite, philanthropist, and classically trained pianist Michelle-Marie Heinemann continues her passionate support of opera and the arts, most recently attending a captivating performance of Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci at the Sarasota Opera House.

“As a classically trained pianist, opera represents the ultimate synthesis of music, storytelling, and emotion for me, and as a family we have always supported and thoroughly enjoyed the Opera. Tonight’s performance was a masterful convergence of artistry, where every note, phrase, and gesture coalesced into a breathtaking tapestry of sound and emotion…I always leave the Opera feeling so inspired and invigorated,” said Ms. Heinemann.

This passion for music and culture deeply influences her children, Hudson and Hyacinth, who attend the prestigious boarding school IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

Hudson Heinemann, a senior and quarterback of IMG’s football team, recently signed with Villanova University, joining the elite ranks of Division 1 college football athletes.

“I grew up with an immense respect and passion for art and music as it was always in our home. I also play the piano and drums, and whether on the field or at the piano, both demand precision, expression, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence,” said Hudson.

His sister Hyacinth shares the family’s artistic legacy and is currently serving as the muse for a mini-opera Ms. Heinemann is composing.

With deep connections to society circles in Sarasota, Palm Beach, and New York City, Ms. Heinemann continues to champion the arts and philanthropy, enriching the communities she touches.

“Aitana: Metamorphosis” – An Intimate Look at the Life of a Star

“Aitana: Metamorphosis” is a 6-episode series about the Spanish singer Aitana Ocaña Morales, better known as Aitana. It is directed by Chloé Wallace. “Aitana: Metamorphosis” is a real treat for Aitana’s fans. The camera accompanies the singer for several months, during the time she gave her famous concert at the Santiago Bernabéu. We will meet her parents, her team, and her close friends, but above all, we will get to know her, as she shares everything with her characteristic joy, charm, and closeness. A star who knows how to always stay close to her audience, both in concerts and now in life. As she herself acknowledges in the documentary, this series is very important to her because she wants to show her fans who she really is, her identity beyond stardom.

Alongside her, we will relive the moments before her success, when she was still a child, and how her life is now that she is a big star.

Aitana: Metamorphosis – Netflix

A Journey of Transformation

The series follows Aitana’s journey from her participation in the reality show “Operación Triunfo” to her current status as an international musical sensation. “Aitana: Metamorphosis” not only celebrates her successes but also offers an honest view of the challenges and obstacles she has faced on her path to stardom.

Beyond the Glamour

Although fans are used to seeing the glamorous side of Aitana, this docuseries reveals aspects of her personal life that are rarely seen. Viewers will have the opportunity to see her daily routine, her recording sessions, and how she balances her personal life with her professional career. Additionally, the documentary includes exclusive interviews with people close to Aitana, who share memorable anecdotes about the Spanish “Princess of Pop.”

A documentary full of exclusive images, memorable moments, and above all, the explanations and company of the singer, who always appears accessible and cordial. We are sure her fans will appreciate it. Enjoy it.

Where to Watch “Aitana: Metamorphosis”

Netflix

“Dabba Cartel”: A New Indian Series on Netflix About Drug Trafficking and Traditional Cooking

This seven-episode series transforms Mumbai’s lunch delivery service into a high-risk drug trafficking operation, led by an unlikely group of middle-class women.

Funny, entertaining, and with good moments, “Dabba Cartel” gives the viewer what they expect with a fast pace and many interesting characters full of stories. A good script and an original concept for this newly released series on Netflix.

From the Kitchen to Organized Crime

“Dabba Cartel” tells the story of five women whose lives take a dramatic turn when their modest ‘dabba’ (lunchbox) delivery business becomes a front for drug trafficking. Created by Shibani Akhtar, Gaurav Kapur, Akanksha Seda, and Vishnu Menon, the series offers a fresh perspective on the crime genre, skillfully intertwining the tension of the underworld with the everyday life of suburban living.

Dabba Cartel – Netflix

A Cast Led by Shabana Azmi

Actress Shabana Azmi leads the cast as the group’s matriarch. Alongside her, stars like Jyothika, Shalini Pandey, Nimisha Sajayan, and Anjali Anand bring to life complex characters that challenge gender stereotypes in the world of organized crime.

Beyond Crime: A Portrait of Mumbai

The series not only focuses on the criminal plot but also offers an intimate glimpse into life in Mumbai. Director Hitesh Bhatia captures the essence of the city, from the incessant rains to the nosy neighbors, creating an authentic backdrop for this story of ambition and survival.

The ‘Dabba’: A Cultural Symbol Transformed

The ‘dabba’, traditionally a simple food container, becomes the symbolic heart of the series. It represents not only Mumbai’s culture but also the aspirations and frustrations of its protagonists. This narrative twist offers a new perspective on an iconic element of Indian life.

Between Tradition and Modernity: A Good Series

“Dabba Cartel” does not surprise, but it entertains. It mixes concepts from here and there that, although we have already seen them in other movies and series, are attractive and entertaining as a whole. The group of women is moving and daring. It has a good script, although it does not surprise with its originality, but it has a good pace and good production quality. A good series that entertains without fascinating.

Where to Watch “Dabba Cartel”

Netflix

“Counterstrike” on Netflix: a Mexican thriller about the world of drug cartels and police

“Counterstrike” is a Mexican Netflix film directed by Chava Cartas, starring Luis Alberti, Noé Hernández, Luis Curiel, and Leonardo Alfonso.

Netflix releases “Counterstrike”, a Mexican thriller that takes us into the world of the fight against drug trafficking in Mexico and the tough operation to arrest one of them (Josefo Urías).

An action movie, a genre thriller that aims to be an action thriller more than a realistic film, with good cinematographic scenes and well-drawn characters.

“Counterstrike” tells us about the mass graves left behind by drug cartels in Mexico but, beyond being a social commentary, it focuses on its action aspect and on giving the viewer a balanced dose between realism and pure thriller.

Directed by Chava Cartas and written by José Rubén Escalante Méndez, “Counterstrike” immerses the viewer in the heart of a dangerous military operation that goes awry. The film follows Captain Guerrero and his squad of elite soldiers in the treacherous aftermath of a hostage rescue mission that unexpectedly creates a new enemy, Josefo Urías (alias “El Aguijón” or “The Stinger”).

Counterstrike – Netflix

The actors

The cast features talented actors, such as Mayra Batalla in the role of Lucía, Noé Hernández as Josefo “El Aguijón” Urías, and Luis Alberti in the lead role of Captain Guerrero. The ensemble promises to bring depth and intensity to this story of military conflict and cartel violence.

About the movie

Don’t expect a film of social commentary or an approach to the pain of the victims or a realistic tone: “Counterstrike” is an old-school movie, a heroic one, that highlights at all times the dedicated and heroic character of the protagonists (the police) in contrast to that of the criminals.

Thus, “Counterstrike” is more an entertaining product than a work born to generate controversy: good cops doing their job and drug traffickers corrupting the authorities. Nothing new in terms of plot? No, nothing new, but the movie is entertaining and achieves its objectives: to give us a good thriller that, without pretending to give geopolitical explanations, offers a classic thriller movie. Good performances, good script in a film that knows from the first moment what its objectives are and how to achieve them.

Without disappointing or surprising, “Counterstrike” is a good movie that, although it won’t go down in Cinema History, leaves a good taste of quality filmmaking.

Enjoy it!

Where to Watch “Counterstrike”

Netflix

“Squad 36” Arrives: A French Netflix Police Thriller with Complex Characters

“Squad 36” is a Netflix film starring Victor Belmondo, Tewfik Jallab, Yvan Attal and directed by Olivier Marchal.

Today marks the arrival of a French thriller that always pleases the audience while not leaving an excessive mark: a police story with a good plot, solid development, and characters with depth.

Directed by Olivier Marchal, “Squad 36” offers a raw and intense look into the world of Parisian law enforcement. Marchal, known for his gritty police thrillers like “Overdose” and “36th Precinct,” is no stranger to exploring the dark intricacies of police work. With “Squad 36,” he adapts Michel Tourscher’s novel “Flic Requiem” to the screen, creating a narrative that delves into the complexities and moral ambiguities of modern policing.

Plot

The story follows Antoine Cerda, a high-ranking police officer played by Victor Belmondo, grandson of the legendary Jean-Paul Belmondo. Cerda is transferred to the Anti-Crime Brigade after being sanctioned by the General Inspection. This transfer sets the stage for a tense and fascinating plot where Cerda turns his back on his former unit, led by the charismatic Sami Belkaïm (Tewfik Jallab).

The story takes an unexpected turn when two agents from Cerda’s old squad are murdered within 24 hours, and a third mysteriously disappears. Driven by a sense of duty and perhaps a touch of guilt, Cerda launches his investigation, uncovering a web of intense police rivalries and corruption that threatens to consume him.

The Actors

In addition to Belmondo and Jallab, the film features Yvan Attal, known for his roles in international productions and his voice-over work for Hollywood stars. Juliette Dol and Soufiane Guerrab, recognizable from Netflix’s “Lupin” series, complete the cast, with promising performances that will add depth and nuance to this complex story.

Marchal’s track record with Netflix bodes well for “Squad 36.” His previous collaborations, including “Rogue City” and the series “Blood Coast,” have had exceptional results, especially in European markets. “Rogue City” featured in the top 10 lists in 70 countries, while “Blood Coast” remained in the global top 10 for three weeks, accumulating an impressive 59.1 million hours viewed.

About the Film

“Squad 36” focuses on flawed heroes and moral ambiguity, offering a distinct vision from the classic police thriller, though it aligns with other recent successes in French thrillers.

Does it reinvent cinema or the thriller genre? Not at all, but “Squad 36” knows what story it needs to tell and clearly understands what works and what doesn’t. It excels at developing characters and maintaining a balance between light and darkness, focusing on the moral ambiguity of the characters and their psyche.

“Squad 36” is not a Hollywood-style action movie; it’s a much more elaborate story in terms of script. It doesn’t force spectacular action scenes or big CGI moments on us: here, the characters, their tragedies, and their stories matter.

“Squad 36” is a dark thriller about police work and moral ambiguity. It’s entertaining, solid, and well-constructed.

Very much in line with the latest successes of French thrillers.

Where to Watch “Squad 36”

Netflix

“Roosters”: A Dutch series on Netflix with a… familiar plot

If a few days ago the French version of the Spanish series “Alpha Males” arrived on Netflix, now from the Netherlands comes “Roosters”, which is another version and, this time, perhaps even more similar to the original version we’ve already seen (also on Netflix, mind you).

The Spanish series was a huge success, and these two remakes prove that, at least, the idea has managed to resonate and had charm: four friends dealing with their “inner macho” and trying to survive in a world fiercely fighting to eradicate that fierce demon. Will they succeed?

Roosters – Netflix

The plot follows four Dutch friends: Mike, Ivo, Daan, and Greg, played respectively by Jeroen Spitzenberger, Waldemar Torenstra, André Dongelmans, and Benja Bruijning. These forty-somethings find themselves navigating changing social terrain, where women have taken the reins of change and old male paradigms no longer have a place.

The cast is completed by actresses such as Jennifer Hoffman, Jelka van Houten, and Eva Laurenssen, who will undoubtedly bring the necessary female perspective to this story of change and adaptation. The series, produced by Hollands Licht for Netflix, consists of 6 episodes in its first season and is already available on Netflix. Each episode lasts approximately half an hour and is entertaining, with quality in dialogues and production.

Although we can’t forget that, being a remake, we can say with certainty: we’ve definitely seen this idea before.

It’s up to the audience to decide whether it has improved on the original version or not, and if it has provided enough arguments to make it worthwhile and (also) become a success (or not).

Enjoy it!

Where to Watch “Roosters”

Netflix

Netflix releases the second season of “Graveyard”, which returns with new cases

“Graveyard” is a Turkish series starring Birce Akalay with Olgun Toker, Şehsuvar Aktaş, and Hakan Meriçliler. “Graveyard” returns with eight new episodes that include four new cases. This series continues to follow Chief Inspector Önem Özülkü (played by Birce Akalay) and her Special Crimes Unit as they tackle complex cases of violence against women in Istanbul.

The second season maintains the series’ intense focus on femicide investigations, with each episode delving into the dark underbelly of the city. The series has a distinct structure compared to other detective shows: each case spans two chapters, allowing for a deeper exploration of the mysteries and intricacies of violence in each of the four cases.

“Graveyard” was a huge hit with audiences in its first season, managing to captivate viewers with both its plots and characters, featuring a standout performance by Birce Akalay as the captain: courage, personality, and a police officer who takes her job very seriously. In this second season, we’ll have more opportunities to see her character, even going so far as to report her own boss.

Empathy and realism, skillfully blended with a classic detective plot, ensure that “Graveyard” meets expectations in this second season. The second season of “Graveyard” establishes itself as an excellent series for lovers of international police dramas. As the team continues to work from their headquarters in the basement, known as the “Graveyard”, viewers can expect another season of intense television with Birce Akalay who, like her fictional character, takes her job very seriously.

Enjoy it!

Where to Watch “Graveyard”

Netflix