Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 63

“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.

A Celestial Symphony: Hungarian State Opera’s English Extravaganza

The Hungarian State Opera is set to dazzle audiences with a spectacular English concert that promises to be a feast for the senses. This extraordinary musical event will showcase the finest of English musical traditions, blending cosmic grandeur with aristocratic elegance.

At the heart of this celestial symphony lies Gustav Holst’s monumental suite, “The Planets”. This awe-inspiring work will transport listeners on a journey through our solar system, from the foreboding strains of Mars to the mystical whispers of Neptune. The Hungarian State Opera Orchestra, under the masterful direction of David Coleman, will bring to life Holst’s vivid astrological portraits, each movement painting a unique atmospheric landscape.

But the cosmic journey doesn’t end there. The program also features Edward Elgar’s soul-stirring Cello Concerto, a work that has captivated audiences for over a century. The internationally acclaimed cellist Santiago Cañón-Valencia will take center stage, his virtuosic performance promising to breathe new life into this beloved masterpiece.

Opening the concert is a world premiere that’s sure to set hearts racing. David Coleman, wearing both his conductor’s and composer’s hats, will unveil his latest creation, “Celebremus”. This festive overture, crafted specifically for the Hungarian State Opera’s Anglophone Season, interweaves motifs from both Hungarian and British national anthems, creating a musical tapestry that celebrates the rich cultural exchange between these two nations.

The evening’s repertoire is rounded out by Benjamin Britten’s playful “Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Purcell”. This delightful piece, with its clever orchestrations and witty variations, offers a lighter counterpoint to the program’s more grandiose works.

As the final notes fade away, audiences will find themselves transported, having experienced a musical journey that spans from the depths of human emotion to the far reaches of the cosmos. This extraordinary concert, a testament to the power and beauty of English musical tradition, will take place on February 2, 2025, at the Hungarian State Opera. It’s an event that no music lover will want to miss – a night where the stars align, and celestial harmonies descend to Earth.

David Coleman – Santiago Cañón

Harlem Season 3: A New Chapter of Drama and Friendship

As the winter chill sets in, the vibrant streets of Harlem are about to heat up with the return of the beloved Prime Video series, “Harlem.” Season 3 is set to premiere worldwide on January 23, 2025, bringing back the dynamic quartet of Camille, Tye, Quinn, and Angie. Created by Tracy Oliver, this season promises to delve deeper into the complexities of friendship, romance, and personal growth, all while maintaining the humor and heart that fans have come to love.

Returning Faces and New Beginnings

The core cast, including Meagan Good, Grace Byers, Jerrie Johnson, and Shoniqua Shandai, will reprise their roles, continuing their journey through the ups and downs of life in New York City. This season, the show introduces new characters that are sure to stir the pot. Kofi Siriboe joins as Seth, a charming MLB player who quickly becomes a romantic interest. Logan Browning steps in as Portia, a figure from Ian’s past, adding layers of drama and nostalgia. Meanwhile, Gail Bean and Robin Givens bring fresh energy as Eva and her formidable mother, respectively.

Angie (Shoniqua Shandai) and Mike (Luke Forbes) in HARLEM S3 Photo Credit: Courtesy of Prime © Amazon Content Services LLC

Plot Twists and Emotional Growth

Season 2 left viewers on a cliffhanger, sparking anticipation for what lies ahead. This new season promises even more twists and turns as the women navigate new stages in their lives. From mother-daughter dynamics to romantic entanglements and career crossroads, the series continues to explore the multifaceted experiences of Black womanhood with authenticity and grace.

A Bittersweet Farewell

While fans are excited for the new season, it comes with the bittersweet news that this will be the series’ final chapter. Creator Tracy Oliver reflects on the journey, acknowledging the challenges and triumphs faced during production, including pandemic-related setbacks. Despite these hurdles, “Harlem” has been a testament to resilience and creativity, offering a safe space for storytelling and camaraderie among its cast and crew.

As “Harlem” returns for its third and final season, it reaffirms its place as a standout comedy that captures the beauty and grit of life in Harlem. With its engaging storytelling and relatable characters, the series continues to resonate with audiences, offering laughter, tears, and a celebration of friendship. Mark your calendars for January 23, and prepare for a season filled with style, surprises, and sisterhood.