Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 56

Betty Parsons Exhibition Showcases Rare 1960s Works at Alexander Gray Associates

Alexander Gray Associates in New York is currently presenting “Reverberation,” an exhibition featuring rarely seen paintings and works on paper by Betty Parsons from the 1960s. This marks the gallery’s fourth exhibition dedicated to the artist, who lived from 1900 to 1982. The show highlights Parsons’s contemplative and intuitive approach to abstraction, emphasizing her focus on spontaneity and gesture through organic forms.

Parsons’s journey as an artist began after attending the 1913 Armory Show in New York, which inspired her to pursue art. Initially studying figurative sculpture before moving to watercolor, she founded the Betty Parsons Gallery in 1946 and fully embraced abstraction the following year. Her artistic philosophy shifted from depicting how subjects looked to capturing the feelings they evoked.

Installation view: Betty Parsons: Reverberation, Alexander Gray Associates, New York, 2025

The 1960s marked a pivotal period in Parsons’s career, catalyzed by the completion of her light-filled studio in Southold, NY. This decade saw her create compositions characterized by bold graphic forms, saturated colors, and fluid contours. “Without Greed” (1960) exemplifies this style, featuring curvilinear shapes in distinctive colors that appear to float or emerge from a monochromatic background.

Parsons’s seaside studio, designed by architect and artist Tony Smith, served as both a weekend retreat and a creative sanctuary. The maritime environment significantly influenced her work, as evident in paintings like “Kites” (1962) and “Sand with Shapes” (1964). These pieces feature biomorphic shapes that suggest both coastal landscapes and psychological terrains.

The artist’s exploration of color’s emotional impact is apparent in works such as “Lavender” (1965) and “Amber” (1969), whose titles reflect their vivid hues. During this period, Parsons increasingly employed a brighter palette while continuing to explore deeper, unseen forces that connected her to what she termed “the new spirit.”

Parsons aimed to represent what she called “the invisible presence,” a metaphysical concept reflecting her belief in art’s ability to tap into the “sheer energy” connecting all things. The exhibition’s titular piece, “Reverberation” (1968), with its vibrant orange and cerulean composition, illustrates this semi-divine undertaking.

Throughout her career, Parsons’s work was widely exhibited across the United States and internationally. A notable survey of her work was held at the Whitechapel Gallery in London in 1968, curated by Lawrence Alloway. In an interview with Alloway, Parsons described her instinctive creative process, emphasizing her aim to become a “blank” and allow emotions to guide her choice of forms and colors.

Betty Parsons’s artistic legacy continues to be celebrated, with her work featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions and represented in prestigious collections worldwide. The current exhibition, “Reverberation,” runs from February 14 to March 15, 2025, at Alexander Gray Associates in New York, offering visitors a rare glimpse into a transformative period of this influential artist’s career.

“I am Married… But!”: Netflix’s New Rom-Com Challenges Happily Ever After

Netflix’s latest Chinese-language romantic comedy series, “I am Married… But!”, takes a fresh look at the realities of married life, challenging the traditional notion of “happily ever after”. The 12-episode series, which premiered today, offers viewers a humorous yet thought-provoking exploration of the complexities that arise after the wedding bells stop ringing.

Directed by Li Nien-hsiu, the show stars Alice Ko as Lin I-ling and Jasper Liu as Zeng Xue-you, a couple whose fairytale romance takes an unexpected turn post-marriage. The series wastes no time in diving into the nitty-gritty of married life, bypassing the honeymoon phase to focus on the challenges that emerge when the rose-tinted glasses come off.

I am Married… But!

I-ling, who has been living with her in-laws for three years, finds herself trapped in a cycle of contemplating divorce every week. Her husband, Xue-you, is portrayed as a “mummy’s boy,” adding another layer of complexity to their relationship. The show doesn’t shy away from depicting the less glamorous aspects of marriage, from endless chores to the irritation of a partner’s deafening snores.

As I-ling grapples with her marital frustrations, the plot thickens with the introduction of two potential romantic interests. Tseng Jing-hua plays Liu Wen-chieh, a charming pharmacist who catches I-ling’s eye, while Fu Meng-po appears as Zhang Ren-wei, I-ling’s former college boyfriend turned colleague. These characters serve to complicate I-ling’s emotional landscape, raising questions about fidelity and the nature of long-term commitment.

The series also explores the male perspective on marital challenges. Xue-you’s character arc involves an encounter with Chen Hsiao-lu, a single mother whose vulnerability stirs protective instincts and potentially more complicated feelings.

Producer Vita Huang emphasizes the show’s commitment to authenticity, noting that some viewers who’ve seen snippets of the series joked about surveillance cameras being installed in their homes. This relatability factor is likely to resonate with married couples who see their own experiences reflected on screen.

“I am Married… But!” doesn’t aim to provide easy answers to the challenges of matrimony. Instead, it offers a “woke” take on romantic storytelling, as described by director Li Nien-hsiu. The series invites viewers to consider whether love can endure when the fairy tale facade fades away, revealing the sometimes messy reality underneath.

As streaming platforms continue to diversify their content offerings, “I am Married… But!” represents Netflix’s foray into more nuanced portrayals of relationships. By blending humor with honest depictions of marital struggles, the show aims to both entertain and provoke thought about the nature of modern marriages.

For viewers looking for a romantic comedy that goes beyond the typical “boy meets girl” narrative, “I am Married… But!” promises a fresh perspective on love, commitment, and the ongoing work of building a life together. As the characters navigate their complicated relationships, audiences may find themselves reflecting on their own experiences and expectations of married life.

Where to Watch “I am Married… But!”

Netflix

The Cast

Ko Chia-yenJasper Liu

Ko Shu-Chin
Fu Meng-po
Tseng Jing-hua
Aining Yao
Ting Yi Chu
Xie Yi-lin
Shu-Han Liang

“Melo Movie” Brings Romance and Self-Discovery to Netflix

Netflix’s latest Korean original series, “Melo Movie,” weaves a tapestry of love, dreams, and personal growth against the backdrop of the film industry. The romantic comedy, helmed by acclaimed director Oh Choong-hwan of “Hotel del Luna” fame, showcases a stellar cast including Choi Woo-shik and Park Bo-young in lead roles.

The series follows the intertwining stories of two couples navigating the complexities of rekindled relationships. At its core is the tale of Ko Gyeom, a passionate cinephile turned film critic, portrayed by Choi Woo-shik. Gyeom’s structured world is upended when he reunites with Kim Mu-bee, an aspiring filmmaker played by Park Bo-young, five years after their initial encounter.

Choi describes his character as “straightforward and very persistent,” a man who “doesn’t know how to give up” in his pursuit of love. Park, on the other hand, brings depth to Mu-bee, a character with “a lot of thorns” who prefers to keep a low profile. Mu-bee’s complex relationship with cinema, influenced by her father’s overwhelming passion for filmmaking, adds layers to her journey of self-discovery.

Running parallel to this central romance is the story of Hong Si-jun, a struggling musician played by Lee Jun-young, and his ex-girlfriend Son Ju-a, portrayed by Jeon So-nee. Their relationship is rekindled when Ju-a, now a screenwriter, asks Si-jun to compose music for a story based on their past.

The series delves into the characters’ professional aspirations as much as their personal lives. It explores the struggles of young adults in the creative industries, touching on themes of ambition, disappointment, and perseverance. As Jeon So-nee puts it, “Melo Movie” is also a coming-of-age story, following four characters as they pursue their dreams and mature both emotionally and professionally.

Writer Lee Na-eun, known for the hit series “Our Beloved Summer,” pens the script, promising a blend of heartwarming romance and thoughtful exploration of personal growth. The series aims to resonate with viewers by portraying the realistic challenges faced by young adults in both their careers and relationships.

Director Oh Choong-hwan expressed his hope that “Melo Movie” will provide comfort to viewers, much like the characters find solace in watching films. “Our characters experience the ups and downs of life, just like we do. While we don’t have all the answers, we hope to offer understanding and companionship,” Oh stated.

As “Melo Movie” unfolds, it promises to deliver a nuanced portrayal of modern romance, intertwined with the characters’ pursuit of their passions. The series not only explores the rekindling of past relationships but also delves into the personal growth and self-discovery that comes with facing one’s past and embracing new opportunities.

With its blend of romance, drama, and introspection, “Melo Movie” aims to capture the hearts of viewers looking for a story that goes beyond typical romantic tropes. As the characters navigate their intertwined paths, the series invites audiences to reflect on their own journeys of love, ambition, and personal growth.

Where to Watch “Melo Movie”

Netflix

The Cast

Choi Woo-shikLee Jun-youngPark Bo-youngJeon So-nee

Kim Jae-wook
Cha Woo-min

“Love Forever”: Swedish Romantic Comedy Challenges Wedding Traditions

In the realm of romantic comedies, Netflix’s latest offering “Love Forever” (Kärlek fårever) brings a fresh Nordic perspective to the well-worn genre of wedding mishaps. Directed by Staffan Lindberg, this Swedish film delves into the chaos that ensues when societal expectations collide with personal desires.

The story centers around Hanna (Matilda Källström) and Samuel (Charlie Gustafsson), a Stockholm couple whose dreams of an intimate countryside wedding on the picturesque island of Gotland are upended by the interference of family and friends. What begins as a simple celebration quickly devolves into a comedic disaster, complete with arguments, revelations, and even an escape attempt by the bride.

Lindberg, known for his offbeat comic style, uses the wedding setting to explore deeper themes of love, family dynamics, and the struggle between tradition and personal autonomy. The film’s narrative takes unexpected turns, blending humor with moments of genuine emotion as the characters navigate the tumultuous event.

“Love Forever” boasts a cast rich in Swedish talent, including veteran actors Kjell Bergqvist and Babben Larsson, alongside rising stars Vilhelm Blomgren and Julia Heveus. Their performances bring depth to the colorful array of secondary characters, each contributing to the wedding day’s escalating pandemonium.

The film’s setting on Gotland adds a visual allure, with the island’s stunning landscapes serving as a backdrop to the unfolding drama. This juxtaposition of natural beauty against human chaos provides a metaphorical layer to the story, highlighting the contrast between idealized romance and the messy reality of relationships.

While “Love Forever” follows in the footsteps of wedding-themed comedies like “Mamma Mia!” and “Four Weddings and a Funeral,” it distinguishes itself through its distinctly Swedish sensibilities. The film tackles the universal theme of navigating family expectations, but does so through a lens that reflects contemporary Nordic society.

“Love Forever” is an exploration of how couples navigate the complex web of societal expectations, family traditions, and personal desires. Through laughter and tears, Hanna and Samuel’s journey reminds viewers that true love often means forging your own path, even when that path diverges from the one others have laid out for you.

For those intrigued by this Swedish take on wedding day chaos, “Love Forever” will be available to stream on Netflix starting February 14, 2025, aptly timed for Valentine’s Day viewing.

Where to Watch “Love Forever”

Netflix

The Cast

Matilda KällströmKjell BergqvistClaes MalmbergCharlie GustafssonAnja LundqvistBabben Larsson

Vilhelm Blomgren
Doreen Ndagire
Niklas Engdahl

“The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” Hits Netflix: A Valentine’s Day Rom-Com with a Twist

Netflix’s latest Indonesian original film, “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World,” premiered today, offering viewers a fresh take on the romantic comedy genre. Directed by Robert Ronny, the film stars Reza Rahadian and Sheila Dara Aisha in a story that blends humor, romance, and social commentary.

The 122-minute feature follows Reuben (Rahadian), a carefree playboy set to inherit his father’s media empire. To claim his inheritance, Reuben must fulfill an unusual last wish: produce a dating show to find and marry the most beautiful girl in the world. This premise sets the stage for a narrative that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the portrayal of women in mass media.

Kiara (Aisha), an ambitious producer working on Reuben’s show, finds herself at odds with her boss’s notorious reputation for fleeting relationships. Their professional dynamic takes an unexpected turn when the pair become stranded on a remote island, forcing them to confront their differences and preconceptions about each other.

The film’s writers, Titien Wattimena and Ifan Ismail, both known for their work on critically acclaimed Indonesian films, have crafted a story that goes beyond typical romantic comedy tropes. It addresses workplace tensions, family expectations, and the demanding world of television production.

Industry observers note that “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” represents Netflix’s continued investment in local content for the Indonesian market. The streaming giant has been expanding its offerings of original productions in Southeast Asia, aiming to capture a growing audience in the region.

As Netflix continues to compete in the crowded streaming market, releases like “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” demonstrate the platform’s strategy of leveraging local talent and stories to appeal to diverse global audiences. Whether this Valentine’s Day release will resonate with viewers beyond Indonesia remains to be seen, but it certainly adds a unique flavor to the platform’s romantic offerings this season.

Where to Watch “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World”

Netflix

The Cast

Reza RahadianJihane AlmiraSheila DaraKevin Julio

Dea Panendra
Ira Wibowo
Indra Birowo
Bucek Depp
Frederika Cull

“My Fault: London” Brings Step-Sibling Romance to British Shores

Prime Video’s latest young adult offering, “My Fault: London,” transplants the popular Spanish “Culpa Mia” franchise to the United Kingdom, delivering a tale of forbidden romance and high-stakes drama. This English-language adaptation, directed by Charlotte Fassler and Dani Girdwood, follows the tumultuous relationship between step-siblings Noah and Nick, played by newcomers Asha Banks and Matthew Broome respectively.

The film’s plot centers on Noah, an 18-year-old American who moves to London with her mother after the latter falls for a wealthy British man. Noah’s new life becomes complicated when she meets her step-brother Nick, a charismatic bad boy with whom she shares an immediate attraction. As the summer progresses, Noah navigates her new social circles and grapples with her growing feelings for Nick, all while an ominous threat from her past looms over her.

While “My Fault: London” largely adheres to the script of its Spanish predecessor, it does make some adjustments for its English-speaking audience. The adaptation places a stronger emphasis on character development and emotional bonding, presenting a slower burn romance compared to the more overtly sexual tone of “Culpa Mia”. This shift in focus may disappoint fans of the original seeking the same level of sensuality but could appeal to viewers who prefer a more gradual build-up of romantic tension.

The film’s production values are notably high, featuring expensive-looking locations, stylish outfits, and sleek cars that add visual appeal to the London setting. Action sequences, including underground car races and fight scenes, punctuate the romantic drama, providing a mix of genres that aims to keep viewers engaged throughout its nearly two-hour runtime.

As with many young adult adaptations, “My Fault: London” seems poised to divide audiences. Fans of franchises like “The Kissing Booth” and “After” may find a new favorite in this British take on step-sibling romance. However, those seeking originality or depth in their romantic dramas might find the film lacking.

“My Fault: London” premiered exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories, potentially launching a new franchise for the streaming platform.

Where to Watch “My Fault: London”

Prime Video

The Cast

Asha BanksMatthew Broome

Eve Macklin
Ray Fearon
Enva Lewis
Jason Flemyng
Kerim Hassan
Sam Buchanan
Amelia Kenworthy

“Dog Days Out”: Netflix’s Latest Animated Series for Kids

Netflix has expanded its animated lineup with the release of “Dog Days Out,” a South Korean computer-animated series that delves into the secret lives of pets when their owners are away. The show, created by Million Volt, the studio behind popular series like “Larva” and “Hero Inside,” brings a fresh take to the animated comedy genre.

The series centers around Holm, a curious pup, and his canine companions as they embark on adventures with their favorite toys. This premise taps into the universal fascination with what pets do when humans aren’t watching, a concept that has proven successful in previous animated features.

“Dog Days Out” stands out in the crowded field of children’s programming with its non-verbal slapstick comedy approach. This style not only makes the show accessible to a global audience but also harks back to classic cartoon traditions where visual humor takes center stage.

The production journey of “Dog Days Out” reflects the evolving nature of content creation in the animation industry. Initially conceived under different titles, including “Pets and Puppets” and “Pets and Toys,” the show underwent several iterations before settling on its current form. This development process hints at the careful consideration given to the series’ concept and appeal.

As “Dog Days Out” makes its debut, it joins a roster of animated content that has become increasingly important for streaming platforms. The show’s performance will likely be closely watched by industry insiders as an indicator of audience appetites for original animated series in a market where established franchises often dominate.

Where to Watch “Dog Days Out”

Netflix

“La Dolce Villa”: Netflix’s New Italian Romance Stirs Up Tuscan Dreams

In the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, Netflix’s latest romantic comedy “La Dolce Villa” unfolds a tale of unexpected love and self-discovery. Directed by Mark Waters, known for his work on “Mean Girls,” the film stars Scott Foley as Eric, a successful businessman who finds himself on an unplanned Italian adventure.

The story centers around Eric’s journey to Italy, initially driven by a paternal mission to prevent his daughter Olivia, played by Maia Reficco, from emptying her bank account on the restoration of a dilapidated villa. However, as with many tales set in the Italian countryside, the country has other plans for our protagonist.

Foley, reflecting on his character’s arc, notes, “His initial determination — to save his daughter from making what he believes would be a huge mistake in purchasing property in Italy — turns out to be a sort of second chance at happiness for Eric, in so many ways!” This transformation forms the heart of the film’s narrative, exploring themes of second chances and the unexpected paths to happiness.

The film’s premise taps into the real-world phenomenon of Italian towns selling historic properties for as little as one euro, a scheme designed to revitalize dwindling communities. This backdrop provides a rich setting for the film’s exploration of cultural clash and personal growth.

Violante Placido joins the cast as Francesca, presumably a local who becomes entangled in Eric’s Italian sojourn. The chemistry between Foley and Placido is likely to be a focal point, as the film navigates the well-trodden but ever-popular path of finding love in unexpected places.

At its core, “La Dolce Villa” appears to be a story about the transformative power of place. The crumbling villa, far from being a mere backdrop, becomes a character in its own right – a symbol of renewal and possibility. As Eric grapples with his daughter’s dreams and his own preconceptions, the villa stands as a testament to the beauty found in imperfection and the potential for new beginnings.

The film promises to deliver the quintessential elements of a romantic comedy set against the stunning vistas of the Italian countryside. While the premise may sound familiar to aficionados of the genre, the involvement of Waters as director suggests there might be more depth to this tale than initially meets the eye.

As “La Dolce Villa” makes its debut on Netflix, it offers viewers a chance to vicariously experience the charm of Tuscany and the allure of unexpected romance. Whether it will rise above the conventions of its genre remains to be seen, but for those seeking a momentary escape to sun-drenched Italian landscapes and the promise of love, this film appears poised to deliver.

Where to Watch “La Dolce Villa”

Netflix

The Cast

Scott FoleyMaia ReficcoViolante PlacidoGiuseppe Futia

Simone Luglio
Tommaso Basili
Nunzia Schiano
Luisa De Santis
Lucia Ricalzone

“Cobra Kai” Season 6 Part 3: The Final Showdown Approaches

Netflix’s hit series “Cobra Kai” is set to conclude its run with the release of Season 6 Part 3. This final installment, aptly titled “The Finale Event,” consists of five episodes, bringing the season’s total to 15 and marking the end of the beloved “Karate Kid” spinoff.

The upcoming episodes pick up in the aftermath of a tragic incident at the Sekai Taikai Tournament, where Cobra Kai fighter Kwon (Brandon H. Lee) accidentally lost his life. This shocking event has cast a shadow over the world of martial arts, prompting both Miyagi-Do and Cobra Kai to confront their past while facing an uncertain future.

Co-creator Josh Heald shed light on the series’ conclusion in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter. He emphasized that the death on the international stage raises profound questions for each character about their life choices and future paths. “How does that affect what they want for their lives, how do they move on from that? How do they take from that something good for the rest of their lives when there is seemingly nothing good in that moment?” Heald pondered.

The final episodes promise to address both long-standing conflicts dating back 40 years and recent developments. Heald described the upcoming installment as “wild,” hinting at a mix of intense conflict, evolving relationships, and the resolution of storylines that have captivated audiences since the series’ inception.

While fans may lament the series’ end, the creators have long planned for this conclusion. Heald, along with co-creators Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg, had always envisioned how the show and its characters’ arcs would conclude. The decision to end with Season 6 was made to fulfill their “day one goal” of telling each character’s story from start to finish as they had originally conceived.

To properly wrap up the numerous storylines and character arcs that have developed over the series’ run, the creators opted for an extended final season. “We wanted to bring it in for a landing, but we needed more than one season and probably less than two seasons [to do so]. We ended up with a nice round number of 15,” Heald explained.

As “Cobra Kai” prepares to bow out, it leaves behind a legacy of revitalizing the “Karate Kid” franchise for a new generation while paying homage to its roots. The series has successfully balanced nostalgia with fresh storytelling, exploring themes of redemption, rivalry, and the enduring impact of mentorship.

Fans can catch the final episodes of “Cobra Kai” on Netflix, where the entire series is available for streaming. As the dojo doors prepare to close one last time, viewers can expect an emotional and action-packed conclusion to the saga that has redefined the meaning of “strike first, strike hard, no mercy” for a modern audience.

Where to Watch “Cobra Kai” Season 6 Part 3

Netflix

The Cast

William ZabkaRalph Macchio

Courtney Henggeler
Xolo Mariduena
Tanner Buchanan
Mary Mouser
Jacob Bertrand
Gianni DeCenzo
Martin Kove

Stuart Lochhead Sculpture Returns to TEFAF Maastricht with Renaissance to Modern Masters

Stuart Lochhead Sculpture, a gallery known for its exceptional works that attract world-class museums, is set to return to TEFAF Maastricht in 2025. The gallery’s display will showcase Master Sculptors and Painters from the Renaissance and Early Modern periods, alongside a special exhibition focusing on early 20th-century master sculptors.

The gallery’s core display at TEFAF Maastricht will feature works from the Renaissance and Early Modern periods, highlighting the craftsmanship and artistry of Master Sculptors and Painters from these eras. Complementing this collection, Stuart Lochhead Sculpture will present a special exhibition that explores the interplay between figurative tradition and abstraction in early 20th-century sculpture. This curated selection will include notable works by artists such as Adolfo Wildt, Vincenzo Gemito, and Alexander Archipenko.

One of the exhibition’s standout pieces is a rare early marble Head of the Virgin by Adolfo Wildt (1868-1931). This significant work, one of the artist’s first carvings of its kind, was acquired by Senator Luigi della Torre at the Terza Biennale Romana in 1925. The sculpture gained international recognition through exhibitions in Paris and New York following its Roman debut. Its presentation at TEFAF Maastricht coincides with the centenary of its creation and first exhibition, underscoring the importance of Wildt’s work in the context of European art history.

Another highlight of the 20th-century Master Sculptors display is a bronze Mask of Alexander by Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929), cast in 1920. This rare piece, one of only five casts ever produced, originates from a plaster model now housed at the Galleria Comunale d’Arte Moderna e Contemporanea di Roma. The mask represents a pivotal moment in Gemito’s career, reflecting his mature interest in Hellenistic themes and his recovery from a personal and artistic crisis.

Stuart Lochhead Sculpture will also present an extraordinary terracotta Tripod by Joseph Chinard (1756-1813), a French sculptor known for his work in post-Revolutionary France. This sophisticated piece showcases Chinard’s interpretation of classical antiquity and contemporary French design. The Tripod, which remained in the artist’s workshop until his death, was exhibited at the Louvre’s seminal 1909 monographic exhibition.

Continuing its commitment to polychrome sculpture, the gallery will display a large Bavarian German Madonna and Child in painted and gilt limewood. This presentation follows the success of last year’s exhibition, “A Room Full of Colour,” which aimed to engage audiences with the rich tradition of polychrome sculpture.

Stuart Lochhead Sculpture has a history of significant museum sales at TEFAF Maastricht. Notable acquisitions include a bust by François Girardon for the Château de Versailles (2020), a French Renaissance Madonna and Child for the Kimbell Art Museum (2022), and a rare terracotta relief by Massimiliano Soldani for the Detroit Institute of Fine Arts (2023). In 2024, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Connecticut acquired a rare cast of Striding Mars by Giambologna.

The gallery has indicated that additional information about two significant objects to be exhibited remains confidential at this time.

The TEFAF Maastricht exhibition featuring Stuart Lochhead Sculpture will take place from March 15th to 20th, 2025, at Stand 112.