Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 75

Lindsay Adams Debuts ‘Keep Your Wonder Moving’ at Sean Kelly, Los Angeles

In a striking departure from her earlier figurative work, Chicago-based artist Lindsay Adams presents her West Coast debut, “Keep Your Wonder Moving,” at Sean Kelly, Los Angeles. This exhibition, running from January 18 to March 8, 2025, marks Adams’ inaugural solo show with the gallery and showcases her evolution into abstract expressionism.

The exhibition’s title, borrowed from a note by poet Patricia Spears Jones to philosopher Audre Lorde, sets the tone for a collection that pushes the boundaries of imagination and personal narrative. Adams’ transition to abstraction is not merely a stylistic shift; it represents a deeper exploration of conceptual storytelling and cultural reflection.

Eleven abstract paintings occupy the third floor of Sean Kelly, each a testament to Adams’ alchemical approach to her craft. Her canvases are alive with movement, as layers of pigment are built up, washed away, and manipulated. This process results in complex surfaces that invite prolonged contemplation, challenging viewers to question the very nature of form and representation.

In works like “Rhythm With Blues,” electric yellows and soft lavenders dance against a backdrop of inky blue, evoking a field of abstracted flora that defies traditional constraints. Adams’ compositions become portals to imagined ecologies, where color and gesture engage in an ongoing dialogue with the viewer’s perception.

At its core, “Keep Your Wonder Moving” is an exploration of resilience, freedom, and the lived experiences of Black womanhood. Adams transforms her canvases into aspirational spaces, fostering intimate encounters with self-discovery and resistance against societal norms. Her work asserts its presence within the broader discourse of artistic and social transformation, positioning painting as both a reflective and generative act.

Adams’ artistic journey is as compelling as her work. Currently finalizing her MFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she has already garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious Helen Frankenthaler Award in 2024. Her rapid ascent in the art world is further evidenced by the inclusion of her work in collections such as the Baltimore Museum of Art and Northwestern Law School.

As viewers navigate “Keep Your Wonder Moving,” they are invited to engage with Adams’ complex abstract vernacular. The exhibition challenges us to embrace the unknown, to find meaning in ambiguity, and to keep our own wonder moving through the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.

Lindsay Adams Debuts “Keep Your Wonder Moving” at Sean Kelly, Los Angeles

In a striking departure from her earlier figurative work, Chicago-based artist Lindsay Adams presents her West Coast debut, “Keep Your Wonder Moving,” at Sean Kelly, Los Angeles. This exhibition, running from January 18 to March 8, 2025, marks Adams’ inaugural solo show with the gallery and showcases her evolution into abstract expressionism.

The exhibition’s title, borrowed from a note by poet Patricia Spears Jones to philosopher Audre Lorde, sets the tone for a collection that pushes the boundaries of imagination and personal narrative. Adams’ transition to abstraction is not merely a stylistic shift; it represents a deeper exploration of conceptual storytelling and cultural reflection.

Eleven abstract paintings occupy the third floor of Sean Kelly, each a testament to Adams’ alchemical approach to her craft. Her canvases are alive with movement, as layers of pigment are built up, washed away, and manipulated. This process results in complex surfaces that invite prolonged contemplation, challenging viewers to question the very nature of form and representation.

In works like “Rhythm With Blues,” electric yellows and soft lavenders dance against a backdrop of inky blue, evoking a field of abstracted flora that defies traditional constraints. Adams’ compositions become portals to imagined ecologies, where color and gesture engage in an ongoing dialogue with the viewer’s perception.

At its core, “Keep Your Wonder Moving” is an exploration of resilience, freedom, and the lived experiences of Black womanhood. Adams transforms her canvases into aspirational spaces, fostering intimate encounters with self-discovery and resistance against societal norms. Her work asserts its presence within the broader discourse of artistic and social transformation, positioning painting as both a reflective and generative act.

Adams’ artistic journey is as compelling as her work. Currently finalizing her MFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she has already garnered significant recognition, including the prestigious Helen Frankenthaler Award in 2024. Her rapid ascent in the art world is further evidenced by the inclusion of her work in collections such as the Baltimore Museum of Art and Northwestern Law School.

As viewers navigate “Keep Your Wonder Moving,” they are invited to engage with Adams’ complex abstract vernacular. The exhibition challenges us to embrace the unknown, to find meaning in ambiguity, and to keep our own wonder moving through the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.

Joel McHale Returns to Host Saturn Awards for Third Time

Joel McHale, known for his roles in “Community” and “The Bear,” is set to host the 52nd Annual Saturn Awards. This marks McHale’s third consecutive year as host, raising questions about the awards’ ability to attract fresh talent.

The event, organized by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, will take place at The Hilton Universal City Hotel. In an attempt to boost viewership, the ceremony will be live-streamed for free on ElectricNOW and The Roku Channel.

Academy President Robert Holguin and producers Bradley and Kevin Marcus praised McHale’s “clever, edgy humor,” though some critics argue his style may be growing stale. The Academy’s enthusiasm for McHale’s return suggests a reluctance to shake up the formula.

This year’s show is dedicated to the late Jon Landau, producer of blockbusters like “Avatar” and “Titanic.” While Landau’s contributions to cinema are undeniable, the dedication raises questions about the awards’ focus on mainstream commercial success over indie genre films.

The Saturn Awards, claiming to honor “the best in genre entertainment” since 1972, will also present Special Saturn Awards to past, present, and future winners. However, these honorees remain unannounced, leaving industry insiders to speculate about potential favoritism or last-minute decisions.

As the Saturn Awards struggle to maintain relevance in an increasingly crowded awards landscape, it remains to be seen whether McHale’s third outing as host will breathe new life into the ceremony or simply highlight its need for reinvention.

Harland Williams & Justin Levine Break Down the Madness Behind Wingman, Hollywood’s Next Outrageous Comedy

With the comedy world hungry for fresh laughs and no-holds-barred humor, New feature film Wingman is set to deliver exactly what audiences crave: gut-busting jokes and an unapologetic approach to storytelling. Written and produced by Justin L. Levine and directed and starring, Harland Williams, the film is one of the most anticipated comedies coming out in 2025. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with these two geniuses to get a glimpse into the making of a comedy that knows exactly what it’s here to do, entertain.

Justin – What was the initial spark that led to the creation of Wingman?

Well, I originally came up with the storyline about 15 years ago, back when Harland and I were filming in Toronto. We were working on a wacky spoof comedy called Child Wild that Harland wrote and starred in. During that time, I came up with the concept for Wingman, inspired by the throwback vibe of ’80s and ’90s dating comedies—something that hasn’t really been done in a while. The idea stuck with me, and all these years later, Harland and I finally decided to greenlight it and bring it to life.

2 Harland – For anyone that hasn’t seen the trailer yet, how would you best describe the film?

Wingman is a modern-day comedy that refuses to be woke or politically correct. It’s an outrageous film that does exactly what comedies are supposed to do: make people laugh! The edgy, silly humor is rooted in the real world of human relationships—dating, love, and the extremes people will go to in their quest to find love and make it work.

Turk, the professional Wingman, helps desperate people find love. His bizarre methods are unlike anything anyone has ever seen—whether it’s yanking nose hairs, using Rubik’s Cubes, or even enlisting the help of an albino koala to lure women. Turk is in a demented league of his own, but, believe it or not, his unorthodox methods actually work! In the end, he helps his clients find love while grappling with a dark secret of his own—one that might just fuel his quest to be the world’s best Wingman.

3.     Justin – were any of the scenes based on real life events?

The original story was loosely based on it back in the day some of my dating escapades. But this newly written script from Harland was entirely his genius & ideas.

4) Harland – How long did it take to write the script? Did you write any characters for specific actors?

The Wingman script took about six months to write, but it took 16 years to finally get made. During that time, I was able to fine-tune and update it. Originally, I wrote the lead Wingman role for one of my best friends, actor Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville’s Lex Luthor). He ultimately passed on it, so I floated the role to a ton of big names I had relationships with—Jim Carrey, Will Ferrell, Jason Bateman, Ryan Gosling—but they all passed.

In the end, I realized it was up to me to step in and bring the Wingman to life. Honestly, I think everything happens for a reason because I had the time of my life playing the role.

I also wrote the character of Kazzim specifically with fellow Canadian comedian Russell Peters in mind. I knew he’d be perfect for the role, and man, did he deliver. He’s simply hilarious and so lovable in this outrageous part.

5.     Justin – As a producer, what were the most difficult challenges you encountered while making Wingman?

As the producer, we had a solid budget for the film, but shooting in a smaller city presented its own set of challenges. One of the hurdles was finding and bringing in skilled crews, which we ultimately solved. We also ran into some funny issues at the U.S.-Canada border, but those were resolved quickly.

The shoot itself was tight, and as the weather grew cooler, managing 27 different locations became another challenge. However, we were able to capture all the great footage needed to bring Harland’s vision to life.

We also got incredibly lucky with the timing of our lead castings. Kayla Wallace had just landed a role in the hit U.S. TV series Landman, starring opposite Billy Bob Thornton and Demi Moore. Evan Marsh had just wrapped a major network TV series in the U.S., and Harland himself has had a strong resurgence on the comedy scene with the ongoing popularity of the Scream franchise, comic-con appearances, and fan expos.

Jamie Kennedy is an old friend of mine, and I was eager to include him in the film. His wacky yet sharp comedic timing brought incredible energy and attention to our production. Russell Peters, who’s constantly on tour selling out arenas, has been friends with Harland for over 30 years and was thrilled to be part of Harland’s directorial debut.

Lastly, Shiva Negar was the perfect choice for her over-the-top comedic role. She and Harland worked together seamlessly, and her performance truly elevated the film.

6)  – Do you have a favorite scene?

Wow, I love the whole film, but there are definitely a few scenes that stand out. One of my favorites is when the lead character, Bob—who hires the Wingman—is making out with a girl in the Wingman’s car, and Butterbuns, the albino koala, makes a surprise appearance in the middle of their groping session. It’s absolutely hilarious.

Another standout for me is a much more subtle scene where Bob, while trying to pick up women, gets completely schooled by a very sophisticated woman. She shows him that women aren’t easily fooled and can outsmart a man if they want to. In a movie filled with lots of outrageous and sophomoric pick-up scenes, I love this one because it feels so real. It’s humbling for Bob, and we see him confronted by a woman who is much smarter and more self-assured than he is.

7) Justin – Why has Hollywood made fewer comedies in the last five years?

Funny enough, this was a topic of conversation among the entire cast and crew while filming Wingman. We all agreed that, over the last five years, Hollywood seems to have been too cautious or worried to produce flat-out, laugh-out-loud dating comedies—the kind that used to be the foundation of so many huge comedy stars. These were also the films that often created some of the funniest moments during awards shows like the Golden Globes and Oscars.

Hopefully, with the current lack of comedies, the industry will come full circle and embrace this genre again. For me personally, slapstick comedies are my absolute favorite genre, and I’ll continue striving to produce more of them.

8) Harland – Will there be a sequel?

YES! We had such an incredible time making this film—both the cast and crew—that I’ve already started writing the sequel. The Wingman character is so unique, blunt, and completely over the top that it feels like a sequel is not just a possibility but a necessity.

To me, this is what movies are all about: bringing to life characters that people would likely never meet in real life. In the vein of Austin Powers and Ace Ventura, I absolutely believe we need to see and hear MORE of the Wingman’s story.

‘The Williams Brothers’, a documentary on Netflix about Iñaki and Nico Williams beyond soccer

“The Williams Brothers” is a Netflix sports documentary about the brothers Iñaki and Nico Williams. It is directed by Raúl de la Fuente.

“The Williams Brothers,” delves into the extraordinary lives of football stars Iñaki and Nico Williams, revealing a story that transcends the boundaries of sport. While the Williams brothers’ prowess on the pitch for Athletic Bilbao is undeniable, it’s their family’s remarkable journey that takes center stage in this intimate portrayal.

The documentary paints a vivid picture of the brothers’ African heritage, juxtaposed against their distinctly Basque upbringing. At its heart, “The Williams Brothers” is a family narrative, with the brothers’ mother playing a pivotal role. Her recounting of the arduous journey from Ghana to Spain forms the emotional core of the film, providing context to the brothers’ success and the challenges they’ve overcome.

The Williams Brothers – Netflix

Athletic Bilbao, the Williams’ club, adds another layer of intrigue to their story. The team’s unique policy of fielding only players with Basque roots makes Iñaki and Nico’s presence in the squad all the more significant. This policy, unparalleled in world football, highlights the brothers’ integration into Basque culture while honoring their Ghanaian roots.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the Williams brothers’ story is their divergent paths in international football. In an unprecedented turn of events, Iñaki represents Ghana on the international stage, while Nico dons the colors of Spain. This split allegiance within a single family underscores the complex nature of identity in modern football.

While “The Williams Brothers” features footage from the brothers’ matches, the documentary’s strength lies in its exploration of life beyond the pitch. It captures the essence of their African heritage, their distinct Basque accents, and their early forays into football, all under the watchful eye of their ever-present mother.

The film offers a deeply personal and sentimental journey, focusing more on the human aspect than on sporting achievements. It paints a poignant picture of immigration, showcasing not only the Williams family’s struggles but also the warmth of those who welcomed them into their new home.

“The Williams Brothers” serves as a testament to the power of family, the complexity of cultural identity, and the universal language of football. It’s a story that resonates far beyond the confines of the sport, offering viewers a touching glimpse into a family’s extraordinary journey from Ghana to football stardom in Spain.

Where to Watch “The Williams Brothers”

Netflix

“The Williams Brothers”, a documentary on Netflix about Iñaki and Nico Williams beyond soccer

“The Williams Brothers” is a Netflix sports documentary about the brothers Iñaki and Nico Williams. It is directed by Raúl de la Fuente.

“The Williams Brothers,” delves into the extraordinary lives of football stars Iñaki and Nico Williams, revealing a story that transcends the boundaries of sport. While the Williams brothers’ prowess on the pitch for Athletic Bilbao is undeniable, it’s their family’s remarkable journey that takes center stage in this intimate portrayal.

The documentary paints a vivid picture of the brothers’ African heritage, juxtaposed against their distinctly Basque upbringing. At its heart, “The Williams Brothers” is a family narrative, with the brothers’ mother playing a pivotal role. Her recounting of the arduous journey from Ghana to Spain forms the emotional core of the film, providing context to the brothers’ success and the challenges they’ve overcome.

The Williams Brothers – Netflix

Athletic Bilbao, the Williams’ club, adds another layer of intrigue to their story. The team’s unique policy of fielding only players with Basque roots makes Iñaki and Nico’s presence in the squad all the more significant. This policy, unparalleled in world football, highlights the brothers’ integration into Basque culture while honoring their Ghanaian roots.

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the Williams brothers’ story is their divergent paths in international football. In an unprecedented turn of events, Iñaki represents Ghana on the international stage, while Nico dons the colors of Spain. This split allegiance within a single family underscores the complex nature of identity in modern football.

While “The Williams Brothers” features footage from the brothers’ matches, the documentary’s strength lies in its exploration of life beyond the pitch. It captures the essence of their African heritage, their distinct Basque accents, and their early forays into football, all under the watchful eye of their ever-present mother.

The film offers a deeply personal and sentimental journey, focusing more on the human aspect than on sporting achievements. It paints a poignant picture of immigration, showcasing not only the Williams family’s struggles but also the warmth of those who welcomed them into their new home.

“The Williams Brothers” serves as a testament to the power of family, the complexity of cultural identity, and the universal language of football. It’s a story that resonates far beyond the confines of the sport, offering viewers a touching glimpse into a family’s extraordinary journey from Ghana to football stardom in Spain.

Where to Watch “The Williams Brothers”

Netflix

Netflix premieres ‘No Good Deed,’ a series starring Lisa Kudrow: smart, savvy and with a thriller edge

“No Good Deed” is a Netflix TV series starring Ray Romano and Lisa Kudrow with Linda Cardellini and O.T. Fagbenle among others.

Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano star in Netflix’s latest offering, “No Good Deed,” a series that initially presents itself as a light-hearted comedy but gradually evolves into something far more complex. Set in Los Angeles, this show skillfully blends elements of comedy, thriller, and drama, creating a unique viewing experience that keeps audiences on their toes.

At first glance, “No Good Deed” appears to be a straightforward story about a couple trying to sell their luxurious Los Angeles home. However, as potential buyers express interest, it becomes clear that there’s more to this sale than meets the eye. The series quickly delves into deeper, more psychological territory, revealing that the couple lost their child in the house, with the mother still grappling with this loss.

The show’s intelligent script navigates seamlessly between familiar domestic scenarios and unexpected twists, never fully abandoning its comedic roots even as it explores darker themes. While it may initially resemble a typical middle-class, picture-perfect Hallmark-style production, “No Good Deed” subverts these expectations by diving into the characters’ complex lives and hidden struggles.

No Good Deed – Netflix

Supporting characters are given equal attention, with their storylines woven intricately into the main plot. The series doesn’t shy away from exposing the characters’ flaws and miseries, albeit through a comedic lens. This approach adds depth to the narrative, making even the most tragic elements palatable through clever humor.

From a production standpoint, “No Good Deed” is competently crafted, though it doesn’t particularly stand out visually. The aesthetics adhere to typical Hollywood television standards – serviceable but lacking in distinctive flair. However, this conventional approach to visuals allows the strength of the writing and performances to take center stage.

Kudrow and Romano deliver solid performances, supported by a capable ensemble cast. The dialogue is sharp and witty, driving the narrative forward while revealing layers of the characters’ personalities and motivations. The series manages to juggle multiple genres effectively, maintaining its comedic core while incorporating elements of thriller and drama.

In essence, “No Good Deed” offers a fresh take on the family comedy genre, infusing it with psychological depth and narrative complexity. While it may not break new ground in terms of visual style, its clever writing and adept handling of tone make it a noteworthy addition to Netflix’s lineup. Viewers seeking a comedy that offers more than just laughs may find “No Good Deed” to be an engaging and thought-provoking watch.

Where to Watch “No Good Deed”

Netflix

Netflix premieres “No Good Deed,” a series starring Lisa Kudrow: smart, savvy and with a thriller edge

“No Good Deed” is a Netflix TV series starring Ray Romano and Lisa Kudrow with Linda Cardellini and O.T. Fagbenle among others.

Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano star in Netflix’s latest offering, “No Good Deed,” a series that initially presents itself as a light-hearted comedy but gradually evolves into something far more complex. Set in Los Angeles, this show skillfully blends elements of comedy, thriller, and drama, creating a unique viewing experience that keeps audiences on their toes.

At first glance, “No Good Deed” appears to be a straightforward story about a couple trying to sell their luxurious Los Angeles home. However, as potential buyers express interest, it becomes clear that there’s more to this sale than meets the eye. The series quickly delves into deeper, more psychological territory, revealing that the couple lost their child in the house, with the mother still grappling with this loss.

The show’s intelligent script navigates seamlessly between familiar domestic scenarios and unexpected twists, never fully abandoning its comedic roots even as it explores darker themes. While it may initially resemble a typical middle-class, picture-perfect Hallmark-style production, “No Good Deed” subverts these expectations by diving into the characters’ complex lives and hidden struggles.

No Good Deed – Netflix

Supporting characters are given equal attention, with their storylines woven intricately into the main plot. The series doesn’t shy away from exposing the characters’ flaws and miseries, albeit through a comedic lens. This approach adds depth to the narrative, making even the most tragic elements palatable through clever humor.

From a production standpoint, “No Good Deed” is competently crafted, though it doesn’t particularly stand out visually. The aesthetics adhere to typical Hollywood television standards – serviceable but lacking in distinctive flair. However, this conventional approach to visuals allows the strength of the writing and performances to take center stage.

Kudrow and Romano deliver solid performances, supported by a capable ensemble cast. The dialogue is sharp and witty, driving the narrative forward while revealing layers of the characters’ personalities and motivations. The series manages to juggle multiple genres effectively, maintaining its comedic core while incorporating elements of thriller and drama.

In essence, “No Good Deed” offers a fresh take on the family comedy genre, infusing it with psychological depth and narrative complexity. While it may not break new ground in terms of visual style, its clever writing and adept handling of tone make it a noteworthy addition to Netflix’s lineup. Viewers seeking a comedy that offers more than just laughs may find “No Good Deed” to be an engaging and thought-provoking watch.

Where to Watch “No Good Deed”

Netflix

‘La Palma’ – Netflix’s Norwegian Disaster Drama Hits the Shores

“La Palma” is a Netflix limited series starring Ingrid Bolsø Berdal, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, and Thea Sofie Loch Næss. It is created by Martin Sundland, Lars Gudmestad, and Harald Rosenløw-Eeg.

As the holiday season approaches, Netflix serves up a reminder that catastrophe doesn’t take a Christmas break. The Norwegian miniseries “La Palma” brings a tsunami to the island of Palma, proving that volcanoes don’t check the calendar before erupting.

This four-part series follows the classic disaster movie formula, now adapted for the small screen with a distinctly Norwegian flavor. The story revolves around a team of Norwegian scientists who discover that Palma’s volcano is on the brink of eruption. Coupled with a perfect storm of meteorological and seismic conditions, the stage is set for a massive tsunami.

At its core, “La Palma” doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. It treads familiar ground, reminiscent of the disaster flicks that gained popularity in the ’60s and ’70s. The premise is simple: a colossal, unstoppable force threatens to wreak havoc, and humanity can only brace for impact.

The series centers on a family grappling with marital tensions, a common trope in the genre. From the get-go, viewers know exactly what they’re in for – there are no surprises here. The narrative unfolds predictably, with the impending disaster looming large over every scene.

La Palma – Netflix

While “La Palma” doesn’t aim for Hollywood-level spectacle, it takes a more grounded approach. The focus is on character proximity and psychology rather than grandiose special effects or melodramatic performances. However, this character-driven approach falls somewhat short, as the protagonists lack the depth or compelling conflicts needed to truly engage the audience.

The pacing might test viewers’ patience. The series takes its time to build up, with the real action only kicking in midway through the second episode. This slow burn approach might not satisfy those expecting non-stop thrills from the outset.

In its attempt to be a serious, logical portrayal of a disaster scenario, “La Palma” sacrifices some of the spectacle that genre fans might crave. The visuals, while competent, don’t push any boundaries. Instead, the series relies on a coherent and reasoned narrative progression to drive the story forward.

Ultimately, “La Palma” is a by-the-numbers disaster series that prioritizes plausibility over pizzazz. While it may not leave viewers on the edge of their seats, it offers a solid, if unremarkable, addition to the disaster genre. For those intrigued by international productions and willing to weather a slow start, this Norwegian take on catastrophe might be worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to make waves in the realm of disaster entertainment.

Where to Watch “La Palma”

Netflix

“La Palma” – Netflix’s Norwegian Disaster Drama Hits the Shores

“La Palma” is a Netflix limited series starring Ingrid Bolsø Berdal, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, and Thea Sofie Loch Næss. It is created by Martin Sundland, Lars Gudmestad, and Harald Rosenløw-Eeg.

As the holiday season approaches, Netflix serves up a reminder that catastrophe doesn’t take a Christmas break. The Norwegian miniseries “La Palma” brings a tsunami to the island of Palma, proving that volcanoes don’t check the calendar before erupting.

This four-part series follows the classic disaster movie formula, now adapted for the small screen with a distinctly Norwegian flavor. The story revolves around a team of Norwegian scientists who discover that Palma’s volcano is on the brink of eruption. Coupled with a perfect storm of meteorological and seismic conditions, the stage is set for a massive tsunami.

At its core, “La Palma” doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. It treads familiar ground, reminiscent of the disaster flicks that gained popularity in the ’60s and ’70s. The premise is simple: a colossal, unstoppable force threatens to wreak havoc, and humanity can only brace for impact.

The series centers on a family grappling with marital tensions, a common trope in the genre. From the get-go, viewers know exactly what they’re in for – there are no surprises here. The narrative unfolds predictably, with the impending disaster looming large over every scene.

La Palma – Netflix

While “La Palma” doesn’t aim for Hollywood-level spectacle, it takes a more grounded approach. The focus is on character proximity and psychology rather than grandiose special effects or melodramatic performances. However, this character-driven approach falls somewhat short, as the protagonists lack the depth or compelling conflicts needed to truly engage the audience.

The pacing might test viewers’ patience. The series takes its time to build up, with the real action only kicking in midway through the second episode. This slow burn approach might not satisfy those expecting non-stop thrills from the outset.

In its attempt to be a serious, logical portrayal of a disaster scenario, “La Palma” sacrifices some of the spectacle that genre fans might crave. The visuals, while competent, don’t push any boundaries. Instead, the series relies on a coherent and reasoned narrative progression to drive the story forward.

Ultimately, “La Palma” is a by-the-numbers disaster series that prioritizes plausibility over pizzazz. While it may not leave viewers on the edge of their seats, it offers a solid, if unremarkable, addition to the disaster genre. For those intrigued by international productions and willing to weather a slow start, this Norwegian take on catastrophe might be worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to make waves in the realm of disaster entertainment.

Where to Watch “La Palma”

Netflix