Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 62

Danish Pop Sensation MAGLY Confronts Inner Demons in New Single

In the stormy and fragile universe of MAGLY, emotions flow freely through grand, irresistible pop melodies. The 28-year-old Danish songwriter’s latest offering, “They Turn Into Ghosts,” sees her facing her deepest fears head-on, crafting a poignant narrative of vulnerability and resilience.

MAGLY, the artistic moniker of Ditte Bissenbacker, has never been one to shy away from raw emotion. Her new single delves into the paralyzing fear of abandonment, a theme deeply personal to the artist. “My biggest fear is that my closest friends and family might suddenly leave me,” MAGLY reveals, her candor as striking as her melodies.

MAGLY – press photo by AGGA Studio 1

The song’s genesis lies in a paradox familiar to many: the struggle between needing support and fearing its consequences. MAGLY explains, “I felt I was pulling those who were there for me down into my darkness. I didn’t think it was fair to them, so I held back, lied, and said I was fine.” This internal conflict forms the emotional core of “They Turn Into Ghosts,” resonating with listeners who’ve grappled with similar fears.

Bissenbacker’s musical journey began in her childhood home on the Danish island of Funen, where she first explored the piano’s potential. Her path led her to the prestigious Norwegian songwriting and music school, Limpi Music. It was there that she forged creative partnerships with Swedish producer Oskar Karlström and English songwriter Lily Williams, collaborators on her latest single. The track’s final polish came from Danish hitmakers Andreas Sommer and Lasse Baunkilde, adding to its radio-ready sheen.

MAGLY’s rise in the Nordic music scene has been meteoric. Her 2023 debut saw two radio hits, “Convenience” and “I Don’t Feel Fine,” catapulting her into the spotlight. Her soulful, organic pop caught the attention of established artists, leading to support slots for acts like Jada, Drew Sycamore, and Norwegian Highasakite.

After a brief hiatus, MAGLY returned in the fall of 2024 with “Honesty,” a single that not only premiered on Danish national radio P3 but also garnered significant international attention. The track featured in major U.S. outlets, including Peaches ‘n’ POP and Broken 8 Records, signaling her growing global appeal.

As 2025 unfolds, MAGLY stands poised for even greater heights. With “They Turn Into Ghosts,” she continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, blending personal introspection with universally relatable themes. Music enthusiasts can expect more soul-stirring releases from this rising Danish star in the coming months, as she cements her place in the contemporary pop landscape.

Ella Kruglyanskaya Explores Artistic Influence in ‘Shadows’ Exhibition

Thomas Dane Gallery presents ‘Shadows’, a compelling new exhibition by Ella Kruglyanskaya, marking the first in a series of three exhibitions showcasing the artist’s work across the year. This exhibition brings together a collection of new paintings and drawings that both honor and question the legacy of artists and experiences that have shaped Kruglyanskaya’s distinctive practice.

Kruglyanskaya, born in 1978 in Riga, Latvia, draws inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including textile design, graphic arts, and the rich histories of painting. Her work often playfully reformulates these influences within large-scale portraits, combining cartoonish and sardonic figures with elements of still life. The artist’s unique approach is evident in pieces such as ‘Everyone and Their Mortality’ (2024), where she ingeniously translates contemporary ideograms into trompe l’oeil, placing these symbols within familiar art historical scenes.

In ‘Shadows’, Kruglyanskaya explores the nature of artistic influence and the ongoing dialogue surrounding the future of painting. Her new body of work features long shadows cast by light entering her New York studio, which reframe images created by her painterly influences. These shadows dance across rushing female figures and intertwine with references to both evolving and obsolete technology. Kruglyanskaya’s acts of homage are cleverly destabilized by satirical or double entendre titles, challenging contemporary ways of seeing and making art.

The exhibition showcases Kruglyanskaya’s engagement with a wide array of artistic references, from Josef Albers and Édouard Manet to Juan Sánchez Cotán and Anthea Hamilton. Her work also nods to René Magritte and the numerous representations of odalisques throughout art history. This rich tapestry of influences is woven into Kruglyanskaya’s distinctive visual language, creating a body of work that is both a tribute to artistic heritage and a bold statement on contemporary art-making.

‘Shadows’ by Ella Kruglyanskaya will be on display at Thomas Dane Gallery in London from 28 February to 3 May 2025. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience the work of an artist who continues to push the boundaries of painting while engaging in a thoughtful dialogue with art history.

Ella Kruglyanskaya
Shadows Private view: Thursday 27 February, 6–8pm
Exhibition dates: 28 February–3 May 2025Thomas Dane Gallery
11 Duke Street, St James’s
London SW1

“The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call”: Netflix’s Adrenaline-Fueled Korean Medical Drama

“The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” is a new Netflix series starring Ju Ji-hoon, Choo Young-woo, Ha Young, and Yoon Kyung-ho.

In the ever-expanding world of Korean dramas on Netflix, “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” emerges as a fresh take on the medical genre. This series injects a dose of high-octane action into the traditional hospital setting, creating a unique viewing experience that sets it apart from its predecessors.

At the heart of “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” is the trauma center of Hankuk University Hospital, where life-and-death decisions are made in the blink of an eye. The South Korean Minister of Health makes a bold move by appointing Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk, a young and unconventional physician, to lead this critical department. Dr. Baek brings with him a team of equally dynamic professionals, each ready to challenge the status quo and redefine emergency care.

The series wastes no time in establishing its tone, opening with a spectacular sequence featuring a motorcycle-riding doctor racing through a war-torn landscape to deliver life-saving blood. This scene sets the stage for what viewers can expect: a medical drama that’s not afraid to push boundaries and venture into action-thriller territory.

“The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” distinguishes itself by adopting a more youthful and lighthearted approach compared to traditional medical dramas. The show focuses on its young protagonists, portraying them as modern-day heroes who are as comfortable performing complex surgeries as they are engaging in high-speed chases. This blend of medical expertise and action-hero prowess creates a unique dynamic that may surprise viewers accustomed to more grounded medical narratives.

The series excels in its pacing, maintaining a brisk tempo that keeps audiences engaged. Each episode presents new challenges for the trauma team, ranging from complex medical cases to situations that require quick thinking and physical prowess. The show’s willingness to prioritize entertainment over strict realism allows for dramatic scenarios that might stretch credibility but undeniably make for compelling television.

However, this approach may not appeal to all viewers. Those seeking a more realistic portrayal of hospital life or in-depth exploration of medical ethics might find “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” too fantastical. The show’s emphasis on spectacle and its almost superhero-like portrayal of doctors could potentially overshadow the genuine challenges and emotional depth often associated with medical dramas.

Despite these potential drawbacks, “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” offers a refreshing change of pace in the medical drama landscape. Its blend of youthful energy, action sequences, and medical scenarios creates a unique viewing experience. The series manages to maintain a sense of humor and lightness even in tense situations, making it an entertaining option for those seeking a medical drama with a twist.

“The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call” on Netflix presents a bold reimagining of the medical drama genre. While it may not satisfy purists looking for a strictly realistic portrayal of hospital life, it offers an entertaining and fast-paced alternative. This series proves that there’s still room for innovation in the well-trodden path of medical dramas, providing viewers with a unique blend of action, humor, and life-saving heroics.

Where to Watch “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call”

Netflix

“The Sand Castle”: a thriller on Netflix available from this Friday

The movie “The Sand Castle,” directed by Matty Brown, is a 2024 thriller and mystery drama set in Lebanon. The film follows a family of four who find themselves trapped on an idyllic island that harbors a shocking reality. The screenplay, crafted by Matty Brown, Hend Fakhroo, and Yassmina Karajah, delves into themes of family relationships and survival. The cast features notable actors such as Nadine Labaki, Ziad Bakri, and Zain Al Rafeea, with music composed by West Thordson and Kat Vokes. Cinematography by Jeremy Snell enhances the film’s atmospheric tension. Produced as a co-production between Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States, the movie is distributed by Front Row Filmed Entertainment and Netflix.

“The Sand Castle,” is available from this Friday on Netflix

Where to Watch “The Sand Castle”

Netflix

Netflix Unveils “Shafted”: A Fresh Take on Masculinity in Crisis

“Shafted” is a Netflix series starring Manu Payet, Guillaume Labbé, Vincent Heneine, and Antoine Gouy. It is created by Noémie Saglio.

This Friday, Netflix adds a new French series to its roster with the premiere of “Shafted”, a Parisian spin on the popular Spanish show “Alpha Males“.

Set in the heart of modern Paris, “Shafted” follows four middle-aged men grappling with their identities in a rapidly changing world. Unable to adapt to evolving norms surrounding toxic masculinity, these characters find themselves enrolling in a course to navigate their personal crises.

Created by Noémie Saglio, a French film director known for her comedic touch, “Shafted” promises to infuse a distinctly Gallic flavor into what was originally a romantic comedy. The series boasts an impressive cast, including Manu Payet, Guillaume Labbé, Vincent Heneine, and Antoine Gouy in the lead roles. They’re joined by a stellar ensemble of actresses, including Mélanie Bernier, Ariane Mourier, Frankie Wallach, and the return of Olga Kurylenko to the small screen.

“Shafted” aims to tackle the current crisis of masculinity faced by men in their 40s with a touch of irony. It explores their struggles to adapt to societal changes in a world where, ultimately, we’re all trying to find common ground.

Catch “Shafted” on Netflix starting this Friday, as it delves into the complexities of modern masculinity with a French twist.

Where to Watch “Shafted”

Netflix

Htein Lin: Documenting Resilience Through Art at Ikon Gallery

Ikon Gallery presents a groundbreaking solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist Htein Lin, showcasing a comprehensive selection of works that span his remarkable career. This exhibition offers a poignant glimpse into the artist’s lifelong commitment to documenting human experiences in challenging times, particularly focusing on his time as a political prisoner in Myanmar from 1998 to 2004.

At the heart of the exhibition are over 45 works from Htein Lin’s 000235 series, named after his International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) number. These pieces, created during his imprisonment, demonstrate extraordinary ingenuity and creativity under confinement. Using unconventional tools like toothpaste tubes, medical bottles, and his own fingers, Htein Lin produced vibrant self-portraits and intricate representations of prison life. The time-stamped paintings vividly capture the emotions and rhythms of incarceration, from the excitement of a new millennium to the longing for freedom.

The exhibition also features Htein Lin’s latest large-scale painting, “Fiery Hell” (2024), which portrays the plight of Myanmar’s rural populations amidst ongoing civil war. This powerful piece depicts figures fleeing burning villages, carrying children, the elderly, and animals, surrounded by red-gold flames. It serves as a stark reminder of the continuing struggles in the artist’s homeland.

Visitors will encounter “A Show of Hands” (2013-), an installation of 12 plaster casts of former political prisoners’ hands from Myanmar. This ongoing project not only records the sacrifices of these individuals but also provides a platform for them to reunite and share their experiences during the casting process.

In a unique collaboration, Htein Lin has worked with residents of HMP Grendon in Buckinghamshire to create new artworks. This off-site exhibition, running from May 1 to 22, explores themes and materials common to prison art in both Britain and Myanmar, featuring portraits and soap block sculptures inspired by the artist’s carving techniques.

The exhibition also includes video works that provide insight into Htein Lin’s writing and performance art. “The Fly” documents a 2005 performance inspired by his prison experiences, while “When I Was a Lousy Millionaire” (2022) revisits his time as a member of the All Burma Students’ Democratic Front, offering a powerful reflection on moral choices during conflict.

Despite being unable to travel outside Myanmar, Htein Lin views this exhibition as a window to the world and an opportunity for the international community to witness the ongoing situation in his country. This comprehensive showcase of Htein Lin’s work not only celebrates his artistic journey but also serves as a testament to the power of art in documenting human resilience and struggle.

The exhibition runs from March 20 to June 1, 2025, at Ikon Gallery, offering visitors a rare opportunity to engage with the profound and moving work of this remarkable artist.

“Nosferatu”: A Gothic Revival in Modern Cinema

“Nosferatu” is a horror movie starring Lily-Rose Depp, Bill Skarsgård, Nicholas Hoult, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Willem Dafoe. It is written and directed by Robert Eggers.

In the realm of remakes, “Nosferatu” emerges as a striking homage to F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent classic, “Nosferatu”. Directed by Robert Eggers, this modern interpretation of Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” manages to walk the tightrope between reverence for its source material and contemporary cinematic sensibilities.

Eggers’ vision is steeped in the aesthetic of German expressionism, a bold choice in today’s film landscape. The movie’s visual language is a feast for the eyes, with stark contrasts, distorted perspectives, and haunting shadows that echo the original’s iconic imagery. This stylistic approach serves as both a nod to film history and a refreshing departure from conventional horror cinematography.

Nosferatu

The narrative follows the familiar beats of Stoker’s tale, with Thomas Hutter journeying to Transylvania to finalize Count Orlok’s London property purchase. However, Eggers infuses the story with a palpable sense of dread and a more nuanced exploration of the characters’ psyches. The pacing is deliberate, allowing tension to build gradually, which may test the patience of viewers accustomed to more fast-paced horror.

Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok is a departure from Max Schreck’s rat-like vampire, opting for a more seductive yet equally unsettling presence. Lily-Rose Depp brings a compelling vulnerability and strength to Ellen Hutter (Mina Harker in the novel), while Nicholas Hoult and Aaron Taylor-Johnson deliver solid supporting performances that ground the film’s more fantastical elements.

Where “Nosferatu” truly shines is in its ability to modernize the vampire mythos without losing its gothic roots. The film’s production design is a character in itself, creating a world that feels both timeless and eerily familiar. Eggers’ attention to period detail is meticulous, yet he allows for subtle anachronisms that give the film a dreamlike quality.

However, the movie is not without its flaws. At times, the homage to expressionism borders on pastiche, and some viewers may find the stylized performances jarring. The film’s commitment to its aesthetic sometimes comes at the expense of emotional engagement, keeping the audience at arm’s length from the characters’ plights.

Despite these criticisms, “Nosferatu” succeeds in breathing new life into a century-old story. It serves as a bridge between classic and contemporary horror, offering audiences a chance to experience the artistry of silent-era filmmaking through a modern lens. While it may not appeal to all tastes, it’s a bold and visually stunning work that demands attention.

In an era of endless remakes and reboots, “Nosferatu” stands out as a thoughtful and artistically ambitious endeavor. It’s a reminder that there’s still room for experimentation and homage in mainstream cinema. Whether you’re a fan of the original “Nosferatu” or new to the world of expressionist horror, this film offers a unique and memorable experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

The Cast

Lily-Rose DeppBill SkarsgårdNicholas HoultAaron Taylor-Johnson

Willem Dafoe
Emma Corrin
Emma Corrin
Ralph Ineson
Simon McBurney
Adéla Hesová

“The Night Agent” Season 2 on Netflix from this Thursday

“The Night Agent” is a Netflix thriller series created by Shawn Ryan starring Gabriel Basso with Luciane Buchanan, Fola Evans-Akingbola, and Sarah Desjardins.

“The Night Agent” is a gripping political thriller series on Netflix that captivated audiences with its intense plot and complex characters. Season 2 continues to delve into the world of espionage, political intrigue, and high-stakes drama. Following the success of the first season, the second season promises to up the ante with even more twists and turns.

In Season 2, the protagonist, Peter Sutherland, finds himself deeper in the web of conspiracy and danger. As a low-level FBI agent working in the basement of the White House, Peter’s life takes a dramatic turn when he receives a call on the emergency line that thrusts him into a world of intrigue. The new season explores his journey as he navigates the treacherous waters of political espionage, uncovering secrets that could shake the very foundations of power.

The series is known for its fast-paced storytelling, intricate plotlines, and well-developed characters. Season 2 continues to build on these strengths, offering viewers a thrilling ride filled with suspense and unexpected revelations. With its blend of action, mystery, and political drama.

The Cast

Gabriel BassoFola Evans-AkingbolaLuciane BuchananSarah Desjardins

Phoenix Raei
Enrique Murciano
D.B. Woodside
Hong Chau

Saturn Awards Shine Spotlight on Los Angeles Wildfire Relief Efforts

The 52nd Annual Saturn Awards is set to dazzle audiences while championing a noble cause. This year’s celebration of science fiction, fantasy, and horror entertainment will double as a platform to raise awareness and funds for those affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.

William Shatner, the iconic Captain Kirk of “Star Trek” fame, will receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, marking a pinnacle moment in his illustrious career. The legendary actor’s contributions to genre entertainment have spanned decades, captivating audiences and inspiring generations of creators.

In a nostalgic nod to cinematic history, the George Pal Memorial Award will honor the 40th anniversary of the beloved time-travel classic “Back to the Future.” Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, writer/producer Bob Gale, and composer Alan Silvestri will represent the film, accepting this esteemed recognition of their groundbreaking work.

The Academy has also turned its gaze to the future of entertainment, selecting Amazon’s “Fallout” series as the recipient of The Spotlight Award. This adaptation has not only satisfied longtime fans of the post-apocalyptic franchise but has also welcomed a new wave of enthusiasts to its retro-futuristic world.

Robert Holguin, Academy President, alongside producers Bradley and Kevin Marcus, emphasized the event’s dual purpose: “The Saturn Awards have always been more than a competition. They’re a celebration of imagination and resilience. This year, we’re harnessing that spirit to support our community in the wake of tragedy.”

The ceremony will serve as a beacon of hope, uniting industry professionals and fans in solidarity. Attendees and viewers will be encouraged to contribute to wildfire relief efforts through QR codes and on-screen promotions, turning entertainment into action.

For those unable to attend in person, the Saturn Awards will be live-streamed for free on ElectricNOW and The Roku Channel, ensuring that the celebration and its important message reach a global audience.

As the entertainment industry gathers to honor its brightest stars and most compelling stories, it also stands united in support of those rebuilding their lives. The 52nd Annual Saturn Awards will take place on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at The Hilton Universal City Hotel, proving that even in the face of adversity, the power of imagination and community can light the way forward.

National Gallery Sheds New Light on Wright of Derby’s Masterpieces

The National Gallery is set to illuminate the artistic world with a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to Joseph Wright ‘of Derby’ (1734–1797). This landmark event, titled “Wright of Derby: From the Shadows,” marks the first-ever exhibition at the National Gallery to focus exclusively on Wright’s renowned ‘candlelight’ series.

Challenging conventional views, this exhibition portrays Wright not merely as a ‘painter of light’ but as an artist who deliberately explored the night-time to engage with profound themes. His work delves into death, melancholy, morality, scepticism, and the sublime, offering a fresh perspective on this figurehead of the Enlightenment era.

The exhibition’s centerpiece is a collection of masterpieces created between 1765 and 1773, a period that defined Wright’s career. For the first time in 35 years, visitors will have the opportunity to see iconic works such as “Three Persons Viewing the Gladiator by Candlelight” (1765), “A Philosopher giving that Lecture on the Orrery in which a lamp is put in place of the Sun” (1766), and the National Gallery’s own “An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump” (1768) displayed together.

Wright’s ‘candlelight’ paintings capture thrilling moments of discovery and shared learning. His dramatic use of light and shadow links his work to Renaissance traditions, particularly reminiscent of Caravaggio’s style, which was rarely employed in British art before the mid-18th century. However, Wright’s genius lies in his ability to engage with contemporary philosophical questions about observation, spectacle, and education raised during the Enlightenment.

In “An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump,” Wright presents a travelling lecturer demonstrating a scientific experiment to a family audience, their reactions ranging from wonder to horror. “The Orrery” showcases a philosopher lecturing on astronomy using a clockwork model of the solar system, with an oil lamp replacing the sun. These works not only display Wright’s technical mastery but also explore the moral ambiguity in acts of looking and the intellectual influence of ‘high’ art.

The exhibition goes beyond paintings to include works on paper and objects that provide context for Wright’s artistic practice and the scientific and artistic developments of his time. It will feature over twenty works, with seventeen pieces coming from Derby Museums, which holds the world’s largest collection of Wright’s work.

“Wright of Derby: From the Shadows” offers a unique opportunity to reassess the artist’s contribution to British art history. It highlights his role at a pivotal moment when public art displays and annual contemporary art exhibitions were gaining prominence. The inclusion of mezzotint prints in the exhibition underscores Wright’s savvy use of popular reproduction techniques to expand his reputation both domestically and internationally.

This extraordinary exhibition, organized in partnership with Derby Museums, will open its doors to the public in the autumn of 2025 at the National Gallery. In 2026, it will travel to Derby Museum and Art Gallery, bringing two of Wright’s most famous works back to his hometown for the first time in 80 years, offering a rare chance for art enthusiasts and historians alike to experience these masterpieces in a new light.