Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 55

Unbo Kim Ki Chang: A Retrospective of Modern Korean Art

ARARIO GALLERY CHEONAN presents a comprehensive exhibition showcasing the artistic legacy of Unbo Kim Ki Chang (1914-2001), a pivotal figure in modernizing traditional Korean painting. The exhibition offers a thorough survey of Unbo’s seven-decade career, featuring 99 works by the artist, alongside six pieces by his wife, Woohyang Park Re Hyun, and one collaborative work.

Born in Seoul in 1914, Unbo lost his hearing at the age of seven due to typhoid fever complications. This auditory impairment, however, did not hinder his artistic journey. In 1930, he began studying under Idang Kim Eun-ho, a master of traditional Korean painting. Unbo’s talent quickly became evident when he was selected for the 10th Joseon Art Exhibition in 1931, marking his formal debut in the art world. His recognition grew, culminating in receiving the prestigious Changdeokgung Prize at the Joseon Art Exhibition in 1937.

Throughout his career, Unbo continuously pushed the boundaries of Korean painting, experimenting with various styles and techniques. His early works focused on realistic figurative art, but post-liberation Korea saw him exploring Cubist tendencies and semi-abstract works reflecting daily life. The 1950s marked a significant period in his artistic development, with the creation of “The Life of Jesus” series, which reinterpreted biblical themes through a Korean lens.

Unbo’s artistic evolution continued with his exploration of abstraction through Munjado (Pictorial Ideograph) in the late 1950s. This period also saw the rise of his renowned Hwajo Yeongmodo (Paintings of Birds, Flowers, and Animals) series, characterized by vigorous brushwork and bold compositions. Notable works from this period include “Horses” (c. 1950-1960s) and “Night Birds (Owls)” (1972), which exemplify his dynamic style and ability to transform emotions into powerful visual expressions.

The 1960s marked Unbo’s full embrace of abstraction, contributing significantly to the modernization of Korean painting. Following the passing of his wife in 1976, he developed the Babo Sansu (Foolish Landscape Style) series, influenced by the aesthetic of Minhwa (Korean Folk Painting). The 1980s saw the creation of his Cheongrok Sansu (Blue and Green Landscape Style) series, featuring mountainous landscapes dominated by deep blue-green hues.

The exhibition also highlights the artistic dialogue between Unbo and his wife, Woohyang Park Re Hyun, whom he married in 1946. Their collaborative work, “Wisteria and Sparrows” (1950s), showcases their complementary styles and shared vision for modernizing Korean painting.

Unbo Kim Ki Chang’s legacy is characterized by his continuous experimentation and dedication to evolving Korean painting. His ability to overcome his hearing impairment and transform it into a unique aesthetic strength earned him lasting respect in the art world. The exhibition at ARARIO GALLERY CHEONAN runs from February 18, 2025, to March 22, 2026, offering visitors an extensive look at the life’s work of this influential Korean artist.

“My Family”: Netflix’s New Italian Dramedy Explores Life’s Final Chapter

Netflix is set to release a new Italian dramedy series titled “My Family” (“Storia della mia famiglia”). The six-episode show promises to deliver a poignant exploration of family dynamics in the face of terminal illness.

The series centers around Fausto, portrayed by the award-winning actor Eduardo Scarpetta, who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and is living out his final day. The narrative unfolds as Fausto’s family grapples with the impending loss, each member struggling to come to terms with their new reality.

Cristiana Dell’Anna plays Maria, Fausto’s wife, who embodies the archetypal matriarch striving to hold the family together during this challenging time. The couple’s children, Luca (Massimiliano Caiazzo) and Anna (Vanessa Scalera), face their own internal conflicts as they prepare for life without their father.

“My Family” delves into universal themes of grief, responsibility, and the complexities of familial relationships. The Euro TV Place aptly describes it as “a story in which, without exception, everyone doing their worst will try to do their best,” highlighting the often messy reality of families facing loss.

Filmed entirely in Rome, Italy, the series is expected to showcase iconic landmarks and scenic spots of the Eternal City, potentially adding visual depth to the emotional narrative.

The decision to present this complex story in a single-episode format is an intriguing choice that has sparked discussions among potential viewers. Some express concern about the ability to fully develop characters and emotional stakes in such a condensed timeframe, while others appreciate the prospect of a concise, impactful viewing experience.

While the series has yet to receive ratings or reviews, the combination of a talented cast, a universally relatable premise, and the picturesque Roman setting has generated interest among drama enthusiasts and fans of Italian cinema alike.

Viewers can expect a blend of comedy and drama that aims to reflect the complex emotions and dynamics that emerge when a family faces its greatest challenge. Whether the series will successfully balance its weighty themes with moments of levity remains to be seen, but it certainly promises to be a thought-provoking addition to Netflix’s international lineup.

Where to Watch “My Family”

Netflix

The Cast

Eduardo ScarpettaMassimiliano CaiazzoVanessa ScaleraCristiana Dell’Anna

Gaia Weiss
Antonio Gargiulo
Filippo Gili
Aurora Giovinazzo

“Until You Burn” Returns: Netflix’s Colombian Drama Heats Up for Season Two

Netflix’s Colombian drama series “Until You Burn” is set to make its return with a highly anticipated second season. The show, which captivated audiences with its intricate web of revenge and family drama, continues to explore the dark undercurrents of privilege and justice in Colombian society.

The series, which first debuted on the streaming platform, follows the story of an ex-convict who embarks on a complex scheme of retribution against a wealthy family he believes responsible for his brother’s death. This premise set the stage for a gripping narrative that blends elements of crime, family dynamics, and social commentary.

The return of “Until You Burn” comes at a time when Netflix is doubling down on its investment in international content, particularly from Latin America. The streaming giant has been expanding its roster of Colombian productions, recognizing the country’s rich storytelling traditions and the global appeal of its narratives.

“Until You Burn” joins a growing list of Colombian content on Netflix, including other popular series and films that have found international audiences. This trend reflects a broader shift in the streaming landscape, where content from diverse global sources is increasingly taking center stage.

As anticipation builds for the new season, fans of the series are left to speculate on the fates of their favorite characters and the new twists that await. Will justice be served, or will the cycle of revenge continue to burn through the lives of all involved? These questions and more will be answered when “Until You Burn” returns to screens, promising another season of intense drama and moral complexity that has become the show’s signature.

The second season of “Until You Burn” has a total of 65 episodes.

Where to Watch “Until You Burn”

Netflix

‘Catalyst’ Sci-Fi Thriller 9 Years in the Making Releases in North America on Apple TV

Writer/Director Christopher Folkens’ debut feature film “Catalyst”, is a gritty, contained thriller that explores the dark storylines that headline modern life. ‘Catalyst’ is a psychological thriller set to premiere across all major TVOD platforms on Tuesday February 11th. The grounded sci-fi thriller film revolves around seven strangers who wake up surrounded by an electrical force field, with collars around their necks. With no escape in sight and their captors standing guard they must unfold their darkest truths to gain their freedom and save their lives before time runs out.

The film was shot in a stunningly unique manner. Principal photography began in June of 2017 where over seven hours of footage was shot on three cameras with 100% improvised dialogue. Those sequences were expertly cut together by director Christopher Folkens which created the skeleton of what would become the feature length script, (written by Folkens with story credits to producers David Bianchi and Enrico Natale). That script would independently fundraise and be shot over the next five years in a total of eight production days.

The film features a gripping performance by lead actor Michael Roark, (who stars as Alek), who is abducted by an organization known as “The Collective” and pulled into a series of psychological trials along with six other men. The men soon find out they have every reason to hate each other based on their dark pasts. As the mystery behind
their captivity unfolds, they must decide their path: choose one of them to die, or discover another way out to save
them all.

“Catalyst” boasts powerful performances from veteran actors Noel Gugliemi (Fast and Furious), Patrick Kilpatrick (Minority Report) David Bianchi (Queen of The South) and Melanie Liburd (Bad Boys: Ride or Die).

Folkens says, “Catalyst is a wakeup call to humanity. It is designed to be a dramatic mirror of our lives. The film is coming out at a perfect time, because humanity is being tested like never before. Our team’s passion and persistence to tell this story of catharsis and redemption, is truly a testament to the resilience of the independent filmmaker. It is a reminder to dream big, and do whatever it takes.

Producer and starring actor David Bianchi recalls, “This film has been an artistic journey of a lifetime, we started prepping in shooting in 2016. The film explores extremely relevant issues we’re seeing everywhere in America today. Sadly the issues we fought for nine years ago are even more relevant now. I applaud our team and cast for their bravery and trust in our process.”

Producer Enrico Natale adds, “The puzzle the film presents is part of our own individual ‘inner work’ on this planet. I hope that our project helps people do better in their own lives, to help heal the world”

Catalyst won Best Feature Film, Best Cinematography and Best Ensemble Awards at the Downtown Film Festival Los Angeles, Best First Feature Director and Best Thriller at the Los Angeles Film Awards, as well as a Telly Award for Craft Visual Effects. The film was beautifully lensed by cinematographers Juan Esco and Matthew Plaxco.

Go Big or Go Home: The Enduring Legacy of Versace Biggies

Hot off the heels of one of her most significant career highs, Sabrina Carpenter dons the iconic Biggie frames as part of the latest Versace eyewear campaign. The Grammy-winning pop star told Vogue she was “really excited to put [her] own twist on [Biggies]” as they are such a quintessential piece in both music and fashion history. She may be Short ‘n Sweet, but it makes sense that such a milestone year in her journey would be solidified by her representing a campaign of eyewear previously donned by a legacy artist as seminal as Notorious B.I.G.

The new campaign brings back the unforgettable frames in their most popular form: black-and-gold acetate with the Versace Medusa medallion symbol. But as a celebration of the new guard, it also expands the collection with improved UV-protection lenses and a huge variety of color combinations to modernize the look. Overall, the campaign keeps things fresh while paying homage to the legacy of hip-hop and the rapper whose name continues to adorn the model.  

Tracing back the Versace Biggies 

Notorious B.I.G. created a unique brand of lyricism and flow that changed rap in the ‘90s. Even beyond hip-hop circles, though, he established his presence in the mainstream and rooted himself as a cultural fixture because of his undeniable aura and style. He never shied away from going grand while going outside of the norm to curate his aesthetic, as evidenced by his penchant for Coogi sweaters and Versace shades — a combination that would eventually be associated with him decades after the everlasting photograph that captured him wearing the pair for Vibe magazine. 

Before Biggie Smalls started donning the eyewear that would eventually be named after him, the frames were still called the Versace 424. Since the 1980s, Versace sunglasses have been a staple in luxury fashion and offered cool collections that included these very frames. Their opulent, bold, yet timeless appeal made them the perfect match to draw Biggie into the 424 model. It’s this very same enduring design and quality that continues to influence the brand’s design principles today. 

Other models still feature the same unapologetically thick frames, gold hardware on the arms, and unique curvature to distinguish its wearer from the rest of the world. The VE2150Q, VE4402, and VE4368, to name a few, are clear examples of this lasting penchant for class and influence. 

Still, since Biggie started wearing the frames as part of his go-to fashion choices, they have become a symbol that lives on to harken back to his impact. This caused a resurgence in the popularity of the frames, which were repeatedly reintroduced due to demand—ultimately being renamed the Medusa Biggie in 2018. 

The lasting notoriety of a pair of shades 

What makes a pair of shades carry the same notoriety as just one of its many wearers? Well, the singularity of Notorious B.I.G. is clear and undeniable. The essence of his style is still heard in the sounds of modern hip-hop legends and up-and-coming artists who have already racked up accolades. One only needs to look at the narrative stylings of J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Megan Thee Stallion, and Doechii to see how his presence is still felt in the culture. 

Biggie’s imagery is heavily ingrained in the public, even outside the musical sphere. Countless shirts on every street corner to luxury brands still don his face; the crown is often associated with his likeness. Murals across the globe feature the man in his Versace sunglasses, and even art pieces from major campaigns by Pepsi pay tribute to his visage. His reach goes beyond the deepest rap fans purveyors of ‘90s hip-hop, often considered one of the all-time greats for his pivotal role in shifting the culture and revitalizing the genre. 

His larger-than-life presence is best described by the man himself, who said you must “recognize a real Don when you see one” in the iconic album Life After Death, released just sixteen days after his murder. Even the nature of his death became a part of the immense shift that highlighted the systemic issues affecting young Black artists in America. You could feel the star power shining through from looking at his inimitable style alone, and this image of youthful artistry and confident wisdom beyond his years would only become immortalized and aggrandized further by the mystery and suddenness surrounding his untimely demise. 

A legacy and mystery only matched by Tupac Shakur, this continues to be tackled in series like . There is a grim fascination that the world continues to have for Biggie’s short life, but this is also heavily linked to the sheer greatness of his work and legacy. One can’t help but feel the loss of potential, considering the heights he already attained with just two studio album releases. With this acclaim and historical presence, it’s no wonder this same enduring fame would trickle over to every aspect of his iconography. 

The Versace Medusa Biggie is just one part of his essence living on, becoming a recognizable status symbol of luxury, finesse, and genius in one fashionable frame. This is why other musicians and prominent figures continue to don the frames and imbue themselves with this vibe. After all, the only way to become an icon is to go B.I.G. 

Netflix Docuseries “Court of Gold” Offers Insider Look at Olympic Basketball

Netflix has unveiled its latest sports docuseries, “Court of Gold,” providing viewers with an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the men’s basketball competition during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The six-episode series, each running 45 minutes, offers exclusive footage and interviews with some of basketball’s biggest stars as they vie for Olympic glory.

The series focuses on several top medal contenders, including Team USA, which faced intense pressure to maintain its four-time gold medal streak. Viewers can expect to see familiar faces such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, alongside rising star Victor Wembanyama of Team France.

“Court of Gold” doesn’t limit its scope to just the American team. The docuseries also covers other notable squads, including Serbia and Canada, providing a global perspective on the Olympic basketball tournament.

One of the pivotal moments captured in the series is Team USA’s historic victory over France, a game that featured a clash of NBA talents with France’s roster including Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert. This matchup was particularly significant given the host nation’s home-court advantage and the pressure on both teams to perform on the Olympic stage.

The series is a collaborative effort, with production credits going to Higher Ground Productions, Olympic Channel, and Words & Pictures. Filmed across multiple locations, including Lille, France, “Court of Gold” offers viewers a multi-lingual experience with content in English, French, Spanish, and Serbian, reflecting the international nature of the Olympic Games.

For basketball enthusiasts and Olympic fans alike, “Court of Gold” promises to deliver an inspiring and exciting look at the dedication, skill, and drama that unfolds both on and off the court during one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.

The docuseries is now available for streaming on Netflix, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the high-stakes world of Olympic basketball and the personal journeys of the athletes who compete at its highest level.

Where to Watch “Court of Gold”

Netflix

Danielle Frankenthal’s “Playing with Light” Explores Boundaries of Contemporary Abstraction

L’Space Gallery in New York City is set to showcase the innovative work of artist Danielle Frankenthal in a solo exhibition titled “Playing with Light.” Curated by art critic Lilly Wei, the exhibition promises to challenge traditional notions of light, transparency, and spatial perception in contemporary abstract art.

Frankenthal, known for her pioneering technique of layering acrylic panels with various paint methods, has spent over three decades developing a unique visual language that blurs the lines between physical and illusionistic space. Her multidimensional works, which include the Gardens and Clouds series, evoke ephemeral landscapes and atmospheric nuances through dynamic brushwork, pearlescent grounds, and gilded details.

Garden, 2022, Acrylic resin panels, acrylic paint, oil stick, phosphorescent acrylic resin, 50 x 50 inch

The artist’s approach to light as an active participant in her creations sets her apart in the field of contemporary abstraction. As viewers move around her pieces, the compositions shift, creating a fluid, kaleidoscopic experience that challenges traditional ideas of depth and perspective. Wei notes that in Frankenthal’s work, “Light has top billing… while color and its incessant fluctuations are given critical supporting roles.”

Frankenthal’s artistic lineage can be traced to influential female abstract painters such as Helen Frankenthaler, Joan Mitchell, and Lee Krasner. However, her direct engagement with light as a medium distinguishes her work. Building on Paul Cézanne’s concept of representing light through color, Frankenthal extends this idea by incorporating light’s physical presence in a way that evolves with the viewer’s perception.

The exhibition underscores Frankenthal’s ability to capture the transient beauty of light and color, positioning her as a distinctive voice in contemporary abstraction. Wei describes the artist’s works as “an invitation to step into a world of impermanence and possibility, where perception itself is as fluid and layered as her compositions.”

“Playing with Light” will be on view at L’Space Gallery, located at 524 W 19th St. in New York, from February 20th to April 5th, 2025. The opening night reception is scheduled for February 20th from 6 to 8 PM, with an artist’s talk to be announced at a later date.

Netflix Releases Engrossing True-Crime Series About Gabby Petito Case

Netflix’s latest true crime docuseries offering, “American Murder: Gabby Petito,” delves into the tragic case that captivated the nation in 2021. The documentary explores the disappearance and death of 22-year-old travel blogger Gabby Petito, shedding light on her relationship with fiancé Brian Laundrie and the subsequent investigation that unfolded.

The series examines the events leading up to Petito’s disappearance during a cross-country road trip with Laundrie. It includes personal interviews with Petito’s loved ones, previously unseen text messages, and exclusive footage, offering viewers a comprehensive look at the case that dominated headlines.

One of the documentary’s focal points is the role of social media in the investigation. Internet users’ analysis of Petito’s posts helped uncover crucial details, highlighting the growing influence of public engagement in high-profile cases.

The documentary also addresses the timeline of events, including Laundrie’s return to Florida alone on September 1, 2021, and the subsequent missing person report filed by Petito’s family on September 11. It details the discovery of Petito’s remains in Grand Teton National Park on September 19, 2021, and the coroner’s findings of “blunt-force injuries to the head and neck, along with manual strangulation.”

Laundrie’s actions following his return home, including his refusal to cooperate with law enforcement and his eventual disappearance, are scrutinized in the documentary. The series concludes with the discovery of Laundrie’s remains on October 20, 2021, in Florida’s Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park, and the FBI’s determination that he died by suicide after leaving a written confession admitting to Petito’s murder.

Beyond the specifics of the Petito case, the documentary touches on broader issues of domestic violence and the disparities in media attention given to missing persons cases. Petito’s parents, who participated in the project, express their hope that the documentary will raise awareness about domestic violence and encourage those in abusive situations to seek help.

Joe Petito, Gabby’s father, emphasizes the importance of equal attention for all missing persons cases, regardless of race or background. The family’s efforts to highlight the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women underscore their commitment to using their daughter’s story to effect positive change.

As viewers prepare to watch the documentary, Nichole Schmidt, Gabby’s mother, reminds the audience of the human element behind true crime stories. “Remembering that these are real people. When somebody is in a documentary, it’s a beautiful story, but Gabby is a sister, she is a daughter, she is a friend. She represents so many other people out there,” Schmidt states, urging compassion and understanding.

“American Murder: Gabby Petito” aims to provide a comprehensive examination of a case that not only gripped the nation but also sparked important conversations about domestic violence, media coverage of missing persons, and the power of social media in modern investigations.

Where to Watch “American Murder: Gabby Petito”

Netflix

HBO Revives Landmark Civil Rights Documentary Series

The groundbreaking documentary series “Eyes on the Prize” returns with a new installment, continuing its exploration of the American civil rights movement. This six-part series, titled “Eyes on the Prize III: We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Rest 1977-2015,” picks up where its predecessors left off, chronicling the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice in the United States.

Inspired by Henry Hampton’s original work, this latest addition to the “Eyes on the Prize” legacy examines the strategies and stories of individuals and communities who have carried the torch of the civil rights movement into the modern era. The series spans nearly four decades, from the late 1970s to 2015, offering a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of racial politics and social activism in America.

Each episode of “Eyes on the Prize III” focuses on a specific period or theme, providing viewers with a nuanced understanding of the challenges and progress made in the fight for equity. The series begins by exploring the impact of economic policies and healthcare issues on marginalized communities in the late 1970s and 1980s. It then delves into the complexities of the criminal justice system and its disproportionate effect on Black Americans.

The documentary doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, addressing events such as the Million Man March of 1995 and the environmental justice movement that gained momentum in the 1980s and 1990s. It also examines the ongoing debate surrounding affirmative action policies and school desegregation efforts in a changing demographic landscape.

One of the most poignant segments of the series covers the period of Barack Obama’s presidency, a time that saw both hope for significant societal change and the rise of new challenges, including increased police brutality. This section culminates with the emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement, highlighting the ongoing nature of the struggle for racial justice.

“Eyes on the Prize III” employs a mix of archival footage and intimate interviews with those who personally participated in these movements. This approach provides viewers with both historical context and first-hand accounts of the events that have shaped America’s ongoing conversation about race and equality.

The series features a diverse array of voices, including community activists, politicians, public defenders, environmental advocates, and leaders of modern civil rights organizations. These perspectives offer a multifaceted view of the complex issues surrounding racial justice in America.

Produced by a team of acclaimed filmmakers, each bringing their unique vision to different episodes, “Eyes on the Prize III” maintains the high standard of storytelling set by its predecessors. The series not only documents historical events but also serves as a reflection on the current state of racial relations in the United States and the work that remains to be done.

By presenting these stories, “Eyes on the Prize III” aims to educate viewers about the ongoing nature of the civil rights movement and inspire continued action towards achieving true equity in an ever-more multicultural society. It stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of those who have fought and continue to fight for a more just and equal America.

The series is set to debut on HBO, with episodes also available for streaming, ensuring wide accessibility for audiences interested in this crucial chapter of American history.

Cave’s Touhou Gensou Eclipse Expands with New Character and Event

Cave Interactive Co., Ltd., the renowned developer behind popular bullet hell shooters, has introduced significant updates to their mobile game Touhou Gensou Eclipse. This side-scrolling shooter, based on the long-running Touhou Project series, continues to evolve with the addition of a new character and a limited-time event.

Patchouli Knowledge, a magician known for her vast magical abilities and physical frailty, joins the roster of playable characters. Her introduction brings the total number of characters to over 24, each offering unique gameplay styles and abilities. Patchouli’s arrival is accompanied by a special challenge that rewards players with an exclusive “cat ears” costume upon completion.

東方幻想エクリプス

The game has launched a new event titled “The Darkness of the Abyss and the Twin Magic Books.” This storyline revolves around the theft of a magical tome from the Scarlet Devil Mansion’s library, where Patchouli resides. The narrative promises to explore the consequences of this theft and the ensuing chaos in Gensokyo, the game’s fantasy setting.

Touhou Gensou Eclipse maintains the intense bullet patterns and hardcore shooting action that Cave is known for, while adapting to the mobile platform. The game incorporates a gacha system for character acquisition, a common feature in free-to-play mobile titles. This business model allows players to access the base game without cost while offering monetization through character and item purchases.

The game’s success is part of a broader strategy by Cave to strengthen its popular IPs. The company has been cross-promoting characters from its various franchises, such as including Mushihimesama characters in other titles to celebrate the series’ 20th anniversary. This approach aims to bolster brand recognition both domestically and internationally.

Despite the game’s positive reception, Cave’s recent financial report reveals a complex picture. While the gaming sector saw increased sales revenue, profits declined due to expenses related to new game launches and advertising costs. However, the company anticipates an upturn in the latter half of the fiscal year, with Touhou Gensou Eclipse expected to contribute to this recovery.

The mobile gaming market remains highly competitive, with Cave facing challenges in balancing player engagement, monetization, and development costs. The company’s focus on leveraging its established IPs and creating engaging content updates appears to be a key strategy in maintaining player interest and driving revenue.

As Touhou Gensou Eclipse continues to evolve, it represents Cave’s ongoing efforts to adapt its signature bullet hell gameplay to the mobile platform while tapping into the popularity of the Touhou franchise. The game’s updates and events suggest a commitment to long-term support and community engagement, factors that are crucial for success in the mobile gaming ecosystem.

The latest updates to Touhou Gensou Eclipse were released on February 15, 2025, with the event and new character available until February 28, 2025.