Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 54

Third season of “Full Swing”, the Netflix documentary series about the exciting world of golf

“Full Swing” is a Netflix series created by James Gay-Rees.

The third season of “Full Swing”, Netflix’s documentary series about professional golf, premieres today on Netflix with seven new episodes that take us into the 2024 season.

Among the most notable moments to be addressed this season is the incident involving Scottie Scheffler at the 2024 PGA Championship. The world’s number one golfer was arrested and detained by Louisville police outside Valhalla Golf Club due to a misunderstanding related to traffic flow. This event, which occurred just before the second round of the tournament, will be one of the focal points of the series.

The season will also cover Xander Schauffele’s victory at the PGA Championship, his first major title. Additionally, it will explore in detail Keegan Bradley’s redemption story, who was named captain of the United States Ryder Cup team.

Among the golfers appearing this season are familiar names such as Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, Tony Finau, and Justin Thomas, as well as newcomers like Ludvig Åberg and the siblings Min Woo and Minjee Lee. The series will address topics such as Bryson DeChambeau’s evolution from antihero to fan favorite, and Rory McIlroy’s emotional roller coaster on and off the competition.

“Full Swing” will also document Gary Woodland’s struggle to return to the sport after facing a brain tumor, and show how Camilo Villegas, assistant captain at the Presidents Cup, leads the international team amidst a family tragedy.

This season covers the four men’s majors, the Paris Olympics, and the Presidents Cup. “Full Swing” is almost mandatory viewing for golf enthusiasts and also serves as an excellent introduction for those unfamiliar with this exciting sport.

Enjoy it!

Where to Watch “Full Swing”

Netflix

Max Unveils First Italian Scripted Original: “Portobello”

Acclaimed Italian filmmaker Marco Bellocchio is set to bring a gripping true story to the small screen with “Portobello,” Max’s inaugural Italian scripted original production. The six-episode series delves into the life of Enzo Tortora, a renowned television host who found himself at the center of a controversial legal battle that shook Italy.

“Portobello” recounts the tumultuous journey of Tortora, the charismatic presenter of the eponymous television show that aired for seven seasons. The series explores how Tortora’s life took a dramatic turn when he was accused by justice collaborators of involvement in a criminal organization linked to drug trafficking. The narrative follows Tortora’s harrowing experience of imprisonment and years-long trial, culminating in his eventual acquittal of all charges.

Fabrizio Gifuni takes on the challenging role of Enzo Tortora, leading a cast that includes Lino Musella, Romana Maggiora Vergano, Barbora Bobulova, Alessandro Preziosi, and Fausto Russo Alesi. The series promises to offer a nuanced portrayal of one of Italy’s most clamorous travesties of justice, shedding light on the personal and public ramifications of a case that captivated the nation.

Behind the camera, Bellocchio collaborates with a team of seasoned writers, including Stefano Bises, Giordana Mari, and Peppe Fiore, to bring this complex story to life. The production boasts high production values, with Francesco Di Giacomo as cinematographer, Andrea Castorina handling set design, Daria Calvelli creating costume designs, Francesca Calvelli in charge of editing, and Teho Teardo composing the music.

“Portobello” is a collaborative effort, produced by OUR FILMS, a company of the Mediawan group, and KAVAC FILM, in co-production with ARTE France. The project also benefits from the collaboration of The Apartment Pictures, a company of the Fremantle group. Lorenzo Mieli and Mario Gianani for Our Films, along with Simone Gattoni for Kavac Film, serve as producers, bringing together a wealth of experience in creating compelling television content.

The series marks a significant milestone for Max, representing its entry into the Italian scripted content market. It also stands as the inaugural project from Our Films, a new production company headed by the prominent producer duo Mario Gianani and Lorenzo Mieli, known for their work on acclaimed series such as “The Young Pope” and “My Brilliant Friend.”

Production for “Portobello” is well underway, with filming having commenced in Rome and continuing across various locations in Sardinia, Campania, and Lombardy. The series is slated to debut on Max in 2026, offering viewers a deep dive into a pivotal moment in Italian television and legal history.

Malu Pierini’s New Single Captures First Date Magic

Danish-Corsican singer Malu Pierini is set to release her latest single, “Just For Us,” a soulful bossa nova-inspired track that encapsulates the enchanting moments of a first date. The song, following her previous release “Souvenir,” continues to showcase Pierini’s talent for crafting intimate, nostalgic melodies.

“Just For Us” is described as a love song dedicated to the small, often overlooked details that make first dates unique. Pierini’s velvety voice floats over warm, rhythmic bossa beats, complemented by a Hollywood-worthy string arrangement. The overall effect is reminiscent of a 1960s film scene, evoking images of new lovers sailing down the Seine at sunset.

The artist herself reflects on the inspiration behind the song, stating, “There can be something truly special about the first date. The nervous energy, the wardrobe crisis, and everything else that ultimately doesn’t matter when the magic happens, and two people just click.” Pierini emphasizes the preciousness of these moments, describing them as a “secret place in time” existing solely between two individuals.

Collaboration played a key role in the creation of “Just For Us.” Pierini worked with Sofie Daugaard, also known as Dopha, in writing the song. Production was handled by brothers Nicholas and Oliver Kincaid, known for their work with other Danish artists such as Mina Okabe and Scarlet Pleasure.

The release of “Just For Us” follows the success of Pierini’s previous single, “Souvenir.” That track garnered national radio airplay in Denmark and attracted attention from prominent Danish media outlets like Soundvenue and GAFFA. It also received international recognition from platforms such as COLORS (Germany), DLSO (Italy), and Ones To Watch (USA).

As Pierini’s career continues to gain momentum, fans and industry observers can anticipate more releases from the artist in the coming year. The singer’s ability to blend nostalgic soundscapes with contemporary production techniques positions her as an artist to watch in the evolving landscape of Danish and international music.

“Just For Us” is scheduled for release on Friday, February 21st. Listeners can follow Malu Pierini on Instagram and Facebook for updates and additional content.

Just For Us – Cover art

Alexander Gray Associates Showcases Diverse Artists at Frieze Los Angeles

Alexander Gray Associates presents a compelling selection of works by nine artists at Frieze Los Angeles, Booth B5. The exhibition features new paintings and works on paper by Ruby Sky Stiler, alongside pieces by Bethany Collins, Harmony Hammond, Jennie C. Jones, Kang Seung Lee, Steve Locke, Carrie Moyer, Joan Semmel, and Jack Whitten.

Ruby Sky Stiler’s multidimensional relief paintings anchor the presentation, challenging traditional notions of abstraction and representation. Her works, such as “Woman with Children in Blue” and “Two Women in Sienna and Umber, with Red Outline,” reimagine modernist grid structures through layered tiles, incorporating stylized female figures and children. Stiler’s “Book Weavings” series further explores the fusion of diverse visual materials.

Jennie C. Jones and Bethany Collins utilize abstraction to uncover hidden histories. Jones’s compositions, like “Nocturne, Earth Tone,” employ sound-dampening materials to create sonically “active” paintings. Collins’s “Roses bloom on every side” incorporates excerpts from alternate versions of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” visualizing the evolution of national narratives.

Kang Seung Lee’s multimedia assemblage “Untitled (Hole)” reflects on queer histories rooted in Los Angeles, combining embroidery and mother-of-pearl with watercolor renderings of Elysian Park trees. Harmony Hammond and Carrie Moyer merge formal concerns with queer content, approaching the canvas as a space where mark-making evokes embodied presence.

Jack Whitten’s works, such as “Compressed Space III,” showcase his innovative techniques that transformed the nature of the painted image. Steve Locke and Joan Semmel create portraits informed by psychological encounters, examining themes of desire, vulnerability, and sexuality.

The exhibition illuminates art’s expansive social function, bringing together works that span cultural and political spheres. The event takes place from February 20 to 23, 2025, at the Santa Monica Airport.

The Fed, Inflation, and Interest Rates: Advanced Positioning for 2025

Federal Reserve policy, inflation trends, and interest rates shape financial markets and investment strategies. Investors and businesses must adjust their approaches as economic conditions shift. These decisions impact borrowing costs, stock markets, real estate, and overall consumer confidence. Understanding how the Fed influences financial stability and economic growth provides insight into positioning for 2025.

The Federal Reserve’s Current Stance

As of early 2025, the Federal Reserve has adopted a cautious approach toward adjusting interest rates. After a series of rate cuts in 2024, the Fed’s benchmark rate now stands at 4.3%. Recent projections indicate only two rate reductions in 2025, fewer than previously anticipated. Also, investing predictions 2025 suggest that interest rate policies will play a crucial role in shaping market performance and asset allocation strategies.

Inflation remains a focal point for the Federal Reserve. Recent data suggests that while inflation has cooled from its peak in mid-2022, it remains above the Fed’s 2% target. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 2.8% over the last 12 months through January 2025, slightly down from 2.9% in December. Core inflation, which excludes food and gas, rose by 3.1% over the same period.

Inflation Trends and Economic Impact

Inflation affects economic stability by eroding purchasing power. Persistent inflation reduces consumer confidence and increases business costs. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index track inflation trends.

Key inflation drivers in 2025:

Supply chain constraints: Disruptions in manufacturing and logistics continue to drive up costs.Labor market conditions: Wage growth can contribute to inflationary pressures. In the U.S., average hourly earnings rose 4.5% in 2024, fueling inflation concerns.Geopolitical factors: Trade policies, tariffs, and global energy prices affect inflation. The 2024 Middle East crisis caused oil prices to spike by 15%, impacting transportation and production costs.Impact on Consumers and Businesses

The Fed’s policies influence borrowing costs for consumers and businesses. High borrowing costs persist as the Fed maintains elevated interest rates. Mortgage rates and other loan rates remain high, affecting consumer spending and business investments.

Central banks worldwide are also navigating the challenges of inflation and interest rate adjustments. For instance, the Bank of England recently cut interest rates by a quarter percentage point to 4.5%, aligning with economists’ predictions. This move reflects a cautious approach amid weak economic growth and inflation concerns.

Interest Rate Adjustments and Market Reactions

The Fed modifies interest rates to control inflation without stifling economic growth. Lower interest rates encourage borrowing and investment, while higher rates curb excessive spending.

Rising rates can lead to market corrections as borrowing costs increase. In 2022, the S&P 500 declined by 10% in response to aggressive Fed rate hikes. Higher mortgage rates may reduce home affordability. Mortgage rates surpassed 7% in 2023, leading to a 20% drop in home sales.

Fixed-income investments react to interest rate movements, affecting yields. In late 2024, the yield on 10-year Treasury notes reached 4.8%, the highest in over a decade.

Strategies for Investors in 2025

Investors must adapt to the current economic environment to protect and grow their portfolios. Consider the following strategies:

Diversification: Allocate investments across various asset classes, including stocks, bonds, and real assets, to mitigate risks associated with inflation and interest rate fluctuations.Inflation-Protected Securities: Invest in Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) or other assets that adjust with inflation to preserve purchasing power.Shorter Duration Bonds: Focus on bonds with shorter durations to reduce sensitivity to interest rate changes.Real Assets: Consider investments in commodities, real estate, or infrastructure projects, which often retain value during inflationary periods.Global Economic Influences on U.S. Policy

International economic trends and central bank decisions affect U.S. monetary policy. Factors that impact Fed policy include:

China’s economic slowdown: A deceleration in China’s growth rate may reduce global demand and commodity prices.European Central Bank (ECB) rate adjustments: ECB policy changes influence global capital flows and the strength of the U.S. dollar.Emerging market debt risks: High U.S. interest rates increase borrowing costs for emerging economies, affecting financial stability.Conclusion

Economic conditions in 2025 require adaptive investment strategies. The Federal Reserve’s policies, inflation trends, and interest rate adjustments demand careful consideration. Investors who align their portfolios with economic realities enhance their ability to navigate financial markets effectively. Understanding policy shifts, market responses, and investment opportunities ensures a balanced approach to financial planning in a dynamic environment.

New Contemporary Art Gallery Tache to Debut in London’s Fitzrovia, Focusing on Emerging Artists

In a move set to invigorate London’s contemporary art scene, a new gallery named Tache is preparing to open its doors in Fitzrovia. The gallery’s mission is to nurture and showcase emerging artists, aiming to dismantle barriers often faced by creatives in the early stages of their careers.

Tache positions itself as a platform for artists to present their first solo or gallery exhibition. The gallery’s approach is inspired by the experimental nature of London’s degree shows, with a focus on presenting a diverse range of international and ambitious practices. By offering comprehensive support through advocacy, mentorship, and an artist-first commission model, Tache aims to create an environment conducive to artistic growth and experimentation.

The gallery’s inaugural exhibition, titled “Fantastical Autonomy,” will feature works by Jorge Jobim, a multidisciplinary artist who works as a painter, photographer, and jazz musician. Jobim’s large-scale oil paintings, characterized by vibrant color palettes and psychedelic compositions, will be the centerpiece of the show. The artist’s work explores the construct of self, blending elements of spontaneity and introspection in his creative process.

Jobim’s artistic approach draws parallels between painting and jazz performance, with each medium informing the other. His compositions are described as a dialogue between intention and chance, featuring recurrent motifs such as branches and octopuses that represent personal entanglements. The exhibition will include a striking 10-meter-long canvas suspended from the gallery ceiling, inviting visitors to engage closely with the artwork.

In addition to paintings, the exhibition will showcase four photographs by Jobim. These images, captured in London’s Speakers Corner and Tinghir, Morocco, are said to echo the dreamlike quality of his paintings through their use of bright light. For Jobim, photography serves as a means of self-connection and grounding.

Tache’s opening marks a significant addition to London’s vibrant artistic community. The gallery’s focus on emerging talents and its comprehensive support model could potentially reshape the landscape for early-career artists in the city. The inaugural exhibition is scheduled to run for just over a month, providing art enthusiasts and industry professionals an opportunity to experience Jobim’s work and the gallery’s unique approach.

The art world will be watching closely to see how Tache’s artist-centric model unfolds and whether it can successfully bridge the gap between emerging artists and the established gallery scene. As the contemporary art market continues to evolve, initiatives like Tache may play a crucial role in shaping the future of artistic representation and development.

Tache is set to open on March 7, 2025, with a launch event scheduled for the evening of March 6. The inaugural exhibition, “Fantastical Autonomy” by Jorge Jobim, will run until April 10, 2025.

Jorge Jobim. Fox, 2024

“Reacher” Season 3: Prime Video’s Action Juggernaut Raises the Stakes

Prime Video’s hit series “Reacher” has returned for its third season, adapting Lee Child’s seventh novel in the Jack Reacher series, “Persuader.” The show continues to captivate audiences with its blend of intense action, strategic plotting, and the unmistakable presence of Alan Ritchson as the titular character.

This season finds Jack Reacher embroiled in a high-stakes undercover mission for the DEA, investigating an import business with sinister undertones. The plot quickly escalates as Reacher discovers a connection to his past, setting the stage for what promises to be the most intense and personal mission yet.

Ritchson’s portrayal of Reacher remains the cornerstone of the series’ success. His ability to balance Reacher’s physical prowess with sharp intellect and strategic thinking continues to elevate the character beyond a typical action hero. This season challenges Reacher in new ways, forcing him to confront ethical dilemmas that add depth to his character and the overall narrative.

The decision to adapt “Persuader” out of sequence from Child’s novels has proven to be a strategic choice, allowing the series to select stories that best fit the show’s evolving narrative. This approach has enabled “Reacher” to maintain its freshness and appeal to both longtime fans of the books and newcomers to the franchise.

Season 3 introduces a compelling cast of characters, including Anthony Michael Hall as Zachary Beck, a crooked businessman, and Brian Tee as Quinn, a figure from Reacher’s past who was thought to be dead. These additions promise to bring new dimensions to the series’ already rich tapestry of allies and adversaries.

The production value remains high, with the show effectively balancing intense action sequences with moments of tension and character development. The series continues to showcase Reacher’s unique approach to problem-solving, often relying on his wits as much as his physical abilities to overcome challenges.

Critics and early viewers have noted that “Reacher” Season 3 maintains the high quality established in previous seasons while pushing the boundaries of its storytelling. The series’ ability to adapt Child’s novels while making necessary changes for television demonstrates a confident approach to the source material.

As “Reacher” continues to evolve, it solidifies its position as one of Prime Video’s standout original series. The show’s success lies in its ability to deliver thrilling action while developing a complex protagonist and engaging storylines that keep viewers invested week after week.

“Reacher” Season 3 proves that the series shows no signs of slowing down. As Jack Reacher faces his most personal and dangerous mission yet, viewers can expect a season that not only meets but exceeds the high bar set by its predecessors.

Where to Watch “Reacher”

Prime Video

New York City Opera Presents “Music of Survival” at Carnegie Hall

The New York City Opera is set to showcase a poignant concert featuring works by composers who faced significant challenges during the 20th century. The performance, titled “Music of Survival: Works by Weinberg, Korngold, and Rovner,” aims to bring attention to overlooked musical legacies and contemporary compositions that echo themes of resilience.

The concert will feature the NYC Opera Orchestra, conducted by Constantine Orbelian, with cellist Kristina Reiko Cooper and soprano Elizaveta Ulakhovich as soloists. The program includes lesser-known cello concertos by Mieczysław Weinberg and Erich Wolfgang Korngold, two composers whose works were neglected during the Holocaust and its aftermath. Weinberg’s Fantasia for Cello and Orchestra op.52 and Korngold’s Cello Concerto in C op.37 will be performed, showcasing the composers’ artistry and emotional depth.

The event also marks the American premiere of Gennady Rovner’s Symphony Metamorphosis, a contemporary piece that bridges past and present, performed by soprano Elizaveta Ulakhovich. This inclusion demonstrates the concert’s commitment to connecting historical works with modern compositions that share similar themes of endurance and artistic expression.

Orbelian and Cooper’s choice to perform these lesser-known concertos is driven by a desire to elevate Weinberg and Korngold’s legacies from obscurity to recognition. The concert serves as a platform to reflect on the power of music to transcend borders and foster understanding, particularly in the context of historical adversity.

Korngold’s Cello Concerto, originally written for the 1946 film “Deception,” starring Bette Davis, Claude Rains, and Paul Heinried, adds a cinematic dimension to the program. This piece, along with Weinberg’s Fantasia, represents works born from the composers’ experiences of survival and displacement.

The performance invites audiences to consider the historical context of these compositions while celebrating the resilience of artists who continued to create despite challenging circumstances. It also serves as a reminder of music’s capacity to inspire empathy and unite diverse audiences.

The concert will take place at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage. Tickets for the event, ranging from $14 to $85, are available for purchase through the Carnegie Hall website. The performance is scheduled for Monday, February 24, 2025, at 8 pm.

Huawei Unveils World’s First Commercial Tri-fold Smartphone

Huawei has introduced its latest innovation in foldable technology, the HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN. This groundbreaking device is the world’s first commercial tri-fold smartphone, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of mobile technology.

The HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN boasts several notable features that set it apart in the competitive smartphone market. At the forefront is its unique tri-fold design, which allows the device to transform between three distinct screen sizes. When fully unfolded, the smartphone offers a 10.2-inch display, making it the largest foldable smartphone screen currently available. In its dual-screen configuration, it measures 7.9 inches, while the single-screen mode provides a more conventional 6.4-inch display.

Huawei has prioritized both form and function in the design of this new device. The HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN claims the title of the world’s thinnest foldable phone, measuring just 3.6mm when fully unfolded. This slim profile is complemented by an innovative ultra-thin leather exterior, available in classic black and red colorways. The leather, measuring a mere 0.47mm in thickness, is crafted from an aerospace-grade fiber, offering a blend of durability and luxury.

HUAWEI Mate XT IULTIMATE DESIGN First-ever Tri-fold Smartphone

The device’s camera module incorporates Huawei’s signature Star Diamond design, enhanced with a new Sinusoidal Cutting technique that creates sharper lines and a more three-dimensional appearance. Each smartphone features a unique Eonic Curves design on the camera lens module, the result of a meticulous 22-day manufacturing process involving 78 complex steps.

At the heart of the HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN’s folding mechanism is the Advanced Precision Hinge System. This system utilizes inward and outward folding hinges operating on a dual-track link, ensuring smooth and balanced opening and closing of the device. The smartphone also incorporates Multi-Directional Flexible Materials to enhance the screen’s resistance to bending stress.

The display technology in the new Huawei device is equally impressive. It features a 3K HUAWEI X-True™ Display, capable of seamlessly switching between single, dual, and triple screen modes. This flexibility allows users to adapt the device to various tasks, from quick actions like making calls in single-screen mode to immersive viewing and multitasking in the expansive triple-screen configuration.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the HUAWEI XMAGE imaging system integrated into the device. The camera setup includes a 10-size adjustable physical aperture, catering to a wide range of photography scenarios. Huawei claims the system can capture subjects from distant landscapes to close-up details with exceptional clarity. An Ultra Speed Snapshot feature is also included, designed to capture high-speed motion and fleeting moments.

Huawei positions the HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN as a device that pushes the boundaries of foldable phone technology. The company states that this smartphone is the result of continuous investment in research and development, aiming to deliver cutting-edge technology, premium design, and an enhanced user experience.

The global launch of the HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN was announced today, marking Huawei’s latest effort to innovate in the competitive smartphone market.

“Zero Day” Brings Political Intrigue to Netflix

Netflix’s latest political thriller series, “Zero Day,” has made its debut, marking Robert De Niro’s first starring role in a television series. The show, created by Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim, and Michael Schmidt, delves into the aftermath of a devastating global cyberattack that has thrown the nation into chaos.

The six-episode series centers around George Mullen (De Niro), a former U.S. President called out of retirement to head the Zero Day Commission. This unprecedented group of experts is tasked with investigating the cyberattack that has caused widespread destruction and thousands of fatalities across the country.

As Mullen searches for the truth, he finds himself navigating a complex web of disinformation, personal ambitions, and conflicting interests from various sectors including technology, Wall Street, and government. The investigation forces Mullen to confront his own dark secrets while risking everything he holds dear.

The show boasts an impressive ensemble cast alongside De Niro. Jesse Plemons portrays Roger Carlson, Mullen’s former aide seeking a return to the national stage. Lizzy Caplan takes on the role of Alexandra Mullen, a young congresswoman from New York and George Mullen’s daughter, who has worked to establish her own political identity. Connie Britton plays Valerie Whitesell, Mullen’s former chief of staff who returns to oversee his new role.

Other notable cast members include Joan Allen, Angela Bassett, Dan Stevens, Matthew Modine, and Bill Camp, further elevating the series’ star power.

The show’s production faced challenges during filming, including a suspension due to the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike. Filming took place in and around New York City, with some scenes reportedly involving a train crash in Westchester County.

“Zero Day” is produced by Panoramic Media, Prologue Entertainment, and Grand Electric Productions for Netflix. The series is directed by Lesli Linka Glatter, who also serves as an executive producer alongside De Niro, Newman, Oppenheim, Jonathan Glickman, and Schmidt.

As viewers tune in to unravel the mystery behind the cyberattack, “Zero Day” promises to explore themes of truth, power, and the impact of technology on modern governance. The series aims to captivate audiences with its blend of political intrigue, conspiracy, and personal drama, all anchored by De Niro’s commanding presence in his first major television role.

Where to Watch “Zero Day”

Netflix