Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 80

A Bittersweet Christmas Tale: Netflix’s Latest Norwegian Offering

“The Snow Sister” is a Norwegian Christmas movie directed by Cecilie A. Mosli starring Jan Sælid and Celina Meyer Hovland. It is directed by Cecilie A. Mosli.

Netflix’s newest addition to its holiday lineup, a Norwegian production whose title translates to “The Snow Sister,” attempts to break the mold of saccharine Christmas fare. While it doesn’t entirely succeed in reinventing the wheel, it does offer a more nuanced take on the genre.

A Story of Loss and Hope

The film centers on Julian, a young boy grappling with the recent loss of his sister. During the holiday season, he befriends Hedvig, a peculiar girl living alone in a large house. Together, they build a snowman in the shape of a “The Snow Sister,” blending fantasy with the harsh realities of grief.

More Than Tinsel and Mistletoe

Unlike the typical Christmas movie filled with jolly elves and magical reindeer, this film dares to explore darker themes. The slow-paced narrative and dialogue peppered with dramatic elements might catch viewers off guard. However, this approach allows for a more authentic exploration of how the holiday season can amplify both joy and sorrow.

A Balancing Act

The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain a delicate balance between the whimsical nature of Christmas and the gravity of loss. It manages to capture the essence of the season – the idea that anything is possible and reality can blur into fantasy – without resorting to clichés.

However, this balancing act isn’t always successful. At times, the film’s pacing feels sluggish, and the tonal shifts between childlike wonder and adult melancholy can be jarring. Some viewers may find themselves wishing for either a more straightforward Christmas romp or a deeper dive into the dramatic elements.

Production Value

As a Netflix production, the film boasts solid production values. The cinematography captures the stark beauty of a Norwegian winter, providing a fitting backdrop for the story’s themes of isolation and hope. However, it’s not groundbreaking in its visual style, falling short of being truly memorable.

In Comparison

When stacked against the plethora of Christmas movies released each year, this film stands out for its willingness to tackle heavier themes. It’s refreshing to see a holiday movie that doesn’t shy away from the complexities of real life. However, it may not satisfy viewers looking for pure escapism or holiday cheer.

Final Verdict

While “The Snow Sister” offers a unique perspective on the Christmas movie genre, it’s not without its flaws. Its slow pace and somber tone may alienate viewers seeking traditional holiday fare. However, for those willing to embrace a more contemplative Christmas story, it provides a thoughtful exploration of grief, friendship, and the power of imagination.

This isn’t a film that will have you reaching for the hot cocoa and gingerbread. Instead, it might prompt discussions about loss, healing, and the true meaning of the holiday season. Whether that’s a gift or a lump of coal in your stocking depends on your expectations.

Where to Watch “The Snow Sister”

Netflix

Timeless Resonance: Chung Hyun’s Sculptural Poetry at Art Basel Miami Beach 2024

In an era where digital art often dominates the conversation, the upcoming Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 Survey sector promises a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of traditional sculptural forms. At the heart of this retrospective showcase stands the work of Korean sculptor Chung Hyun, whose solo project, presented by PKM Gallery, is set to captivate audiences with its profound exploration of materiality and human existence.

Chung Hyun
Untitled
1991
Bronze
45 x 16 x 18 cm
Ed. 3/6
Courtesy of the artist & PKM Gallery

Born in 1956, Chung Hyun has carved out an unparalleled position in the realm of Korean sculpture. His works, created before the turn of the millennium, possess a fresh resonance that feels particularly poignant in today’s over-dematerialized art landscape. The PKM Gallery booth will feature Chung’s powerful bronze head sculptures and tar drawings from the 1990s, each piece a testament to the artist’s concentrated precision and intuitive expressive power.

Chung’s artworks are a harmonious dance between the rigidity of metal and the fluidity of organic forms. His bronze heads, with their weathered surfaces and enigmatic expressions, seem to carry the weight of countless untold stories. The tar drawings, dark and visceral, offer a stark contrast, yet complement the sculptures in their exploration of texture and depth. Together, these works deliver what can only be described as a weighty poetic reverberation, grounded firmly in time and history.

The selection of Chung Hyun as one of the Art Basel Editors’ pick artists underscores the significance of his contribution to the art world. From December 2nd, art enthusiasts worldwide will have the opportunity to engage with Chung’s work through featured images and editor reviews on the Art Basel website, offering a tantalizing preview of the exhibition to come.

Chung’s artistic journey is marked by numerous accolades and exhibitions at prestigious institutions across the globe. From the National Museum of Modern Art in Gwacheon, Korea, to the Jardin du Palais Royal in Paris, France, his work has traversed continents, speaking a universal language of form and emotion. His receipt of the Kim Sechoong Sculpture Award in 2014 and the AICA Korea Award in 2009 stand as testaments to the enduring impact of his artistic vision.

Perhaps most notably, Chung was named Artist of the Year 2006 by the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Korea, a recognition that solidified his status as a pivotal figure in contemporary Korean art. This honor, along with his selection as Artist Today 2004 by the Kim Chong Yung Museum, speaks to the timeless quality of his work – pieces created in the 1990s that continue to resonate and inspire well into the 21st century.

As visitors to Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 step into PKM Gallery’s Booth S14, they will be transported into a world where the fundamental aesthetics of sculptural materiality reign supreme. Chung Hyun’s work invites contemplation, challenging viewers to engage with art on a visceral level, to feel the weight of bronze and the texture of tar as acutely as they might perceive a digital image.

Chung Hyun
Untitled
1995
Bronze
67.5 x 40 x 52 cm
Courtesy of the artist & PKM Gallery

In a world increasingly dominated by the ephemeral nature of digital media, Chung Hyun’s sculptures and drawings stand as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of physical art. They invite us to pause, to reflect, and to reconnect with the tangible world around us. As the art world converges on Miami Beach from December 4th to 8th, 2024, Chung Hyun’s solo project promises to be a highlight – a moment of profound artistic exploration that captures the essence of matter, time, and memory in a way that only sculpture can.

A New Dawn for Central Asian Art: Almaty Museum of Arts Set to Transform Cultural Landscape

In the shadow of the majestic Tian Shan mountains, a cultural revolution is taking shape. The Almaty Museum of Arts, set to open its doors in Summer 2025, promises to be more than just a building—it’s a bold statement of Central Asia’s artistic prowess and a bridge to the global art world.

A Visionary’s Dream

At the heart of this ambitious project is Nurlan Smagulov, a collector, philanthropist, and businessman whose passion for art has ignited a cultural beacon for Kazakhstan and beyond.

“Art has the power to transform lives, and it once transformed mine,” Smagulov shares, his eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. “For me, Almaty Museum of Arts is not just a museum; it serves as a bridge that connects Central Asia’s vibrant and diverse art with the global cultural scene.”

This isn’t just hyperbole—Smagulov is putting his money where his mouth is. The museum, spanning an impressive 9,400 m², will house over 700 modern and contemporary Kazakh and Central Asian artworks from his personal collection. But that’s not all—prepare to be awestruck by international masterpieces, including:

A monumental ceramic mural by Fernand LégerA large-scale walkthrough sculpture by Richard SerraA multi-channel audiovisual installation by Bill ViolaArchitectural Marvel Meets Artistic Vision

Designed by the renowned British architects Chapman Taylor, the museum’s structure is a work of art in itself. Picture two ‘L’-shaped forms intertwining—one clad in limestone representing the mountains, the other in aluminium symbolizing the city. This architectural dance creates a stunning visual metaphor for the intersection of nature and urban life that defines Almaty.

But it’s not just about looks. The building is a carefully crafted space for art to thrive:

A 1,000 m² temporary exhibitions room with soaring 12m ceilingsA permanent exhibition room for rotating thematic displaysDedicated artist rooms for immersive experiencesAn ‘Art Street’—a naturally-lit corridor connecting exhibition spacesMore Than a Museum

Led by Artistic Director Meruyert Kaliyeva and Chief Curator Inga Lāce, the Almaty Museum of Arts aims to be a catalyst for cultural growth. It’s not just about displaying art—it’s about nurturing it.

“Our mission,” explains Kaliyeva, “is to create an inspiring space where both the people of Kazakhstan and international visitors can experience contemporary art that resonates with universal human experiences, while also showcasing the distinctive cultural voices of our region.”

From research initiatives to dynamic exhibitions, from commissioned works to educational programs, the museum is poised to become a transformative hub for culture in the region.

A Gift to the City, A Beacon for the World

In a move that speaks volumes about his commitment to his hometown, Smagulov plans to gift the Almaty Museum of Arts and its collection to the city of Almaty. This generous act ensures that the museum will serve as a lasting legacy, enriching the lives of generations to come.

As we eagerly await the Summer 2025 opening, one thing is clear: the Almaty Museum of Arts is not just opening its doors—it’s opening a whole new chapter in the story of Central Asian art.

Richard Serra Room and Art Street. Visual renders by Chapman Taylor.

The Programme

Almaty Museum of Arts will open with two exhibitions and a performance art program:

A solo show by Kazakh artist Almagul Menlibayeva titled I Understand Everything, curated by renowned Thai curator Gridthiya Gaweewong. The Almaty-born artist’s first-ever retrospective offers an in-depth showcase of her work from the 1980s to the present day, ranging from paintings and works on paper to lightboxes and immersive video installations. Menlibayeva’s work delves into the overlooked narratives and untold histories of Central Asia, addressing critical themes like the role of women, identity politics, ecology, and neo-colonialism. She intertwines these themes with indigenous cosmologies and mythologies, presenting a layered and nuanced exploration of the region’s evolving identity.Qonaqtar, a group exhibition curated by Inga Lāce that draws from the museum’s collection, exploring the connections and tensions between hospitality and migration, with a focus on Kazakhstan, Central Asia, and its neighbouring regions.An opening performance art program is curated by Anne Davidian, featuring performance, film, talks, and communal gatherings. It is inspired by Central Asia’s rich musical heritage and the museum’s bustling location at the crossroads of Al-Farabi Avenue, named after Abu Nasr Al-Farabi (born c. 878), the philosopher and author of The Great Book of Music.

The Collection

The Almaty Museum of Arts’ collection comprises works by Kazakh modern artists Aisha Galimbayeva, Salikhitdin Aytbayev, Makum Kisamedinov, and Shaimardan Sariyev. They are complemented by works of pioneering contemporary artists such as Rustam Khalfin, Sergey Maslov, Yerbossyn Meldibekov, Saule Suleimenova, and Said Atabekov. The growing Central Asian contemporary art collection includes pieces by artists such as Saodat Ismailova from Uzbekistan and Jazgul Madazimova from Kyrgyzstan. International dialogues within the collection are fostered by artists such as Khadim Ali, Xu Zhen, and Jadé Fadojutimi, among others.

Artistic Director Meruyert Kaliyeva comments:

“We are here to celebrate the voices, visions, and histories of artists from Kazakhstan and beyond, providing a vibrant platform for further study and appreciation of contemporary art in the region. We aim to inspire curiosity, dialogue, and a deeper understanding of the artistic heritage and contemporary expressions that shape and reflect Central Asia’s cultural landscape.”

Colman Domingo Shines in Netflix’s New Thriller “The Madness”: A Mixed Bag of Social Commentary and Suspense

“The Madness” is a Netflix miniseries starring Colman Domingo with Marsha Stephanie Blake, and Thaddeus J. Mixson.

In the ever-expanding universe of Netflix originals, “The Madness” emerges as a star vehicle for the charismatic Colman Domingo. This new thriller series attempts to blend edge-of-your-seat suspense with timely social commentary, resulting in a show that’s as ambitious as it is uneven.

A Presenter’s Nightmare Turned Conspiracy Thriller

Domingo plays Muncie Daniels, a popular CNN presenter whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes entangled in a murder case. The victim? A member of a white supremacist group. The prime suspect? None other than Daniels himself, whose outspoken activism against racism makes him an easy target.

As Daniels delves deeper into clearing his name, he uncovers a web of conspiracies that goes far beyond a single murder. The series takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride through the dark underbelly of racial tensions in America, all while maintaining the pacing of a classic Hollywood thriller.

Domingo: The Series’ Saving Grace

If there’s one reason to watch “The Madness,” it’s Colman Domingo. The actor brings a magnetic presence to the screen, infusing Muncie Daniels with a perfect blend of vulnerability and determination. Domingo’s performance is nuanced and captivating, often elevating material that might otherwise feel formulaic.

Style Over Substance?

While “The Madness” boasts high production values and slick direction, it sometimes struggles to balance its social message with its thriller elements. The series’ noble intentions of addressing racism and white supremacy are commendable, but the execution often feels surface-level. The show rarely digs deep enough into these complex issues, instead using them more as plot devices than subjects for meaningful exploration.

A Familiar Tune with a Few New Notes

As the eight-episode series unfolds, viewers might find themselves in familiar territory. Despite its contemporary themes, “The Madness” follows many of the well-worn paths of conspiracy thrillers. Plot twists and turns abound, but seasoned genre fans may find themselves predicting outcomes before they happen.

The Verdict: Worth a Watch, with Reservations

“The Madness” is a series that tries to do it all – be a gripping thriller, a showcase for a talented actor, and a commentary on pressing social issues. While it doesn’t always succeed in juggling these elements, there’s enough here to keep viewers engaged, primarily thanks to Domingo’s stellar performance.

For fans of Colman Domingo or those looking for a thriller with a dash of social relevance, “The Madness” is worth adding to your Netflix queue. Just don’t expect it to revolutionize the genre or offer profound insights into the issues it touches upon.

Where to Watch “1111111111111”

Netflix

“Asaf”: A Misguided Attempt at Genre-Blending

“Asaf” is a new Netflix series starring Cihangir Ceyhan with Burçin Terzioglu and Uygar Özçelik.

Netflix’s latest Turkish offering, “Asaf,” attempts to merge the worlds of high-stakes thriller and sentimental drama. Unfortunately, this six-episode miniseries falls short of its ambitious goals, delivering a product that fails to satisfy fans of either genre.

A Predictable Plot in Thriller’s Clothing

The series centers around Asaf, a down-on-his-luck protagonist who finds himself entangled with the mob while trying to save his son’s life. While this premise could have been the foundation for a gripping narrative, “Asaf” stumbles into the realm of cliché. The character of Asaf lacks the complexity typically associated with thriller protagonists, coming across as disappointingly one-dimensional.

The storyline, which should be the backbone of any good thriller, feels forced and unconvincing. The writers’ attempts to weave emotional family drama into the fabric of a crime narrative result in a disjointed viewing experience. Neither the thrilling elements nor the sentimental aspects are given enough room to breathe, leaving both underdeveloped.

An Uneasy Marriage of Genres

Perhaps the most glaring issue with “Asaf” is its misguided attempt to blend thriller elements with Turkish television’s penchant for sentimentality. This combination, which might have been innovative if executed well, instead creates a tonal whiplash. The series fails to strike a balance, leaving viewers unsure whether to be on the edge of their seats or reaching for tissues.

The villains are cartoonishly evil, lacking the nuance that makes for compelling antagonists in modern thrillers. Conversely, the “good” characters are painted with such a broad brush of virtue that they become unrelatable. This black-and-white approach to character development feels outdated and simplistic, especially in an era of complex anti-heroes and morally gray narratives.

Aesthetically Underwhelming

From a production standpoint, “Asaf” offers little to write home about. The visual style is pedestrian at best, failing to capitalize on the potential for atmospheric tension that the thriller genre affords. The cinematography and set design feel more suited to a daytime soap opera than a Netflix original series, further undermining the show’s attempts at gritty realism.

The pacing, crucial for maintaining suspense in a thriller, is inconsistent. Action sequences are interspersed with drawn-out emotional scenes, creating a jarring rhythm that fails to keep viewers engaged. This uneven tempo is symptomatic of the series’ larger identity crisis.

A Missed Opportunity

In trying to appeal to multiple audiences, “Asaf” ends up satisfying none. Thriller enthusiasts will find the action and suspense diluted by melodramatic interludes, while those seeking emotional depth will be put off by the superficial character development and formulaic plot twists.

Ultimately, “Asaf” serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of genre-blending without a clear vision or strong execution. While the concept of combining thriller elements with emotional drama isn’t inherently flawed, this series demonstrates how easily such an endeavor can go awry.

For viewers seeking a compelling thriller or a touching drama, there are far better options available on Netflix. “Asaf” is, at best, a forgettable entry in the streaming giant’s international catalog, and at worst, a frustrating example of squandered potential.

Where to Watch “Asaf”

Netflix

“Dalgliesh” Returns: A Thrilling New Chapter in Crime Drama

Fans of gripping detective stories, prepare yourselves for a treat! Acorn TV is set to deliver another riveting season of the fan-favorite crime drama “Dalgliesh.” As the crisp autumn air settles in, viewers can look forward to cozying up with the enigmatic Commander Adam Dalgliesh for a series of perplexing new cases that promise to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Set against the backdrop of 1979 Britain, on the cusp of Margaret Thatcher’s rise to power, the third season of “Dalgliesh” plunges viewers into a world of intrigue and suspense. The incomparable Bertie Carvel, known for his captivating performances in “The Crown” and “Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell,” reprises his role as the titular detective, bringing depth and nuance to the character that has captured the imaginations of P.D. James fans for decades.

This season, Commander Dalgliesh faces three distinct and highly sensitive cases, each more complex than the last. From the hallowed halls of a scandal-ridden seminary to the opulent chambers of a politically besieged wealthy family, and finally to the ominous corridors of a nuclear power station plagued by a series of killings, Dalgliesh’s keen intellect and unwavering determination will be put to the ultimate test.

The first mystery, “Death in Holy Orders,” premiering on December 2nd, sees Dalgliesh navigating the treacherous waters of religious politics and long-buried secrets. As he peels back the layers of deceit surrounding a bloody murder, viewers will find themselves questioning the sanctity of even the most revered institutions.

In a thrilling twist, the second mystery, “Cover Her Face,” not only presents Dalgliesh with a new puzzle to solve but also marks Bertie Carvel’s directorial debut. This double treat for fans premieres on December 9th, offering a unique glimpse into Carvel’s artistic vision both in front of and behind the camera.

The season culminates with “Devices and Desires,” launching on December 16th, where the shadow of nuclear threat looms large over Dalgliesh’s investigation. This final mystery promises to be a heart-pounding race against time, with stakes higher than ever before.

Returning to the fold are the brilliant Carlyss Peer as Detective Chief Inspector Kate Miskin and the charismatic Alistair Brammer as Detective Sergeant Daniel Tarrant. Their chemistry with Carvel’s Dalgliesh adds layers of complexity to the investigations, creating a formidable team that viewers will root for with every twist and turn.

This season boasts an impressive roster of guest stars that reads like a who’s who of British television. Anton Lesser, known for his work in “Endeavour,” brings his gravitas to the screen, while Lloyd Owen of “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” fame adds a touch of epic drama. The talented ensemble also includes Claire Goose, Liz White, and Adam James, each bringing their unique flair to the intricate narratives.

Behind the scenes, the creative forces are equally impressive. Helen Edmundson returns as lead writer and executive producer, ensuring the continuation of the show’s sharp, intelligent storytelling. The addition of writers Colette Kane and Kam Odedra promises fresh perspectives on James’s beloved mysteries.

As the nights grow longer and the desire for compelling television intensifies, “Dalgliesh” stands ready to satisfy the cravings of mystery enthusiasts and drama lovers alike. With its blend of historical setting, psychological depth, and nail-biting suspense, the third season is poised to be the most enthralling yet.

Mark your calendars and prepare to be transported to a world where every shadow holds a secret, and every clue could be the key to unraveling a masterfully crafted mystery. “Dalgliesh” returns exclusively to Acorn TV this December, promising to be the perfect companion for those long winter evenings when nothing beats a good detective story.

Don’t miss out on this televisual feast – your appointment with Commander Dalgliesh awaits!

Kate Shepherd’s “ABC and sometimes Y”: A Geometric Odyssey

Kate Shepherd’s upcoming solo exhibition at Galerie Lelong & Co., New York, promises to be a captivating exploration of space, color, and form. Titled “ABC and sometimes Y,” the show unveils a fresh collection of paintings, sculptures, and watercolors that push the boundaries of Shepherd’s long-standing engagement with abstraction and perspectival space.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is a large-scale, site-specific wall painting that dominates the main gallery space. This installation showcases Shepherd’s mastery in creating illusory depth through the clever use of overlapping shapes and varied color tones. As visitors move through the space, they’ll experience a dynamic interplay between the artwork and its environment, with the horizontal scale of the mural engaging viewers both spatially and temporally.

Shepherd’s signature enamel and oil paintings on aluminum panels offer a different yet equally compelling visual experience. These works feature diagrammatic configurations of linear forms, rendered in thin black and white lines against reflective surfaces. The color palette ranges from soft pastels to vibrant yellows, each hue carefully chosen to evoke specific emotional responses to the compositions. In some pieces, Shepherd introduces a new element by dividing the background into two tones, adding another layer of complexity to the pictorial field.

The exhibition also presents a series of watercolors that demonstrate Shepherd’s ability to create a sense of movement and dynamism through the use of contrasting tones in monochromatic planar shapes. These works hint at the artist’s background in figurative painting, with their attention to naturalistic gravity and credible space.

Perhaps the most striking evolution in Shepherd’s practice is evident in the large-scale painted plywood sculptures dispersed throughout the gallery. These three-dimensional pieces bring the artist’s linear constructions into physical space, offering a tangible manifestation of the forms explored in her paintings. The sculptures, which maintain the thin profile characteristic of Shepherd’s work, create an intriguing dialogue with the two-dimensional pieces on display.

As viewers move through the exhibition, they’ll encounter a cohesive body of work that demonstrates Shepherd’s ongoing innovation within her established artistic language. The interplay between color, form, and space challenges perceptions and invites contemplation, making “ABC and sometimes Y” a must-see event for art enthusiasts and critics alike.

Kate Shepherd’s “ABC and sometimes Y” opens at Galerie Lelong & Co., New York, on Thursday, December 12, 2024.

A Culinary Journey Across Continents: “Chef’s Table” Returns to Netflix for Season 7

“Chef’s Table” is a gastronomic series created by David Gelb.

Netflix’s beloved gastronomic odyssey, “Chef’s Table,” is back with its seventh season, promising to tantalize viewers’ taste buds and broaden cultural horizons. This isn’t just another cooking show; it’s a visual feast that takes audiences on a mouthwatering expedition through the kitchens of four exceptional restaurants spanning the United States, Spain, and Mexico.

The show’s magic lies in its ability to weave together the threads of culinary expertise, personal narratives, and cultural heritage. Each episode is a carefully crafted tapestry, showcasing not just the food, but the stories and traditions that shape each dish. The cinematography is nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping shots that capture the essence of each location and close-ups that make you feel as if you could reach out and taste the creations on screen.

This season’s lineup features five remarkable chefs: Nok Suntaranon, Kwame Onwuachi, Ángel León, Norma Listman, and Saquib Keval. Each brings their unique background and culinary philosophy to the table, creating a diverse and captivating viewing experience.

Nok Suntaranon

In Philadelphia, Thai-born chef Nok Suntaranon opens the doors to her kitchen, where traditional Thai flavors are elevated to fine dining status. Her vibrant personality shines through as she demystifies the art of Thai soup-making, proving that luxury can be found in the most humble of ingredients.

Kwame Onwuachi

New York City’s culinary scene takes center stage with Kwame Onwuachi’s “Tatiana”. Onwuachi, with roots in the Bronx and Nigeria, crafts dishes that are a testament to the melting pot that is New York. His creations are a bold fusion of street food grit and haute cuisine finesse, mirroring the city’s dynamic spirit.

Ángel León

The series then whisks viewers away to the sun-drenched shores of Puerto de Santa María in Cádiz, Spain. Here, Ángel León, known as the “Chef of the Sea”, demonstrates his innovative approach to seafood. León’s dishes are a love letter to the ocean, showcasing his deep respect for marine ecosystems and his ability to transform the fruits of the sea into culinary masterpieces.

Norma Listman & Saqib Keval

The final stop on this gastronomic tour is Mexico City, where chefs Norma Listman and Saquib Keval have created a unique culinary fusion. Their restaurant is a vibrant celebration of Mexican and Indian cuisines, two rich culinary traditions that find common ground in bold flavors and complex spices.

“Chef’s Table” goes beyond mere food porn; it’s a cultural exploration that uses cuisine as a lens to examine history, tradition, and innovation. While the show certainly whets the appetite, it also feeds the mind, offering insights into the ways food shapes and is shaped by the communities it serves.

As the credits roll on each episode, viewers are left with more than just cravings. They carry with them a deeper appreciation for the power of food to tell stories, bridge cultures, and create unforgettable experiences. Season 7 of “Chef’s Table” reaffirms the show’s status as a must-watch for food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Where to Watch “Chef’s Table”

Netflix

“Our Little Secret”: Lindsay Lohan Returns to Netflix for Christmas (with a Romantic Comedy)

“Our Little Secret” is a Netflix romantic comedy starring Lindsay Lohan and Ian Harding. With Kristin Chenoweth, Jon Rudnitsky, and Dan Bucatinsky.

Our beloved Lindsay Lohan is back for Christmas in one of those movies created just for her, where her presence and essence are noticeable from the start: a romantic comedy with a twist that, while family-friendly, has a slightly daring touch.

“Our Little Secret” is a family Christmas romantic comedy that, with good production and perfect script execution, leaves no trace while fulfilling absolutely all the premises of the Christmas movie formula.

Plot

After a tumultuous separation, Avery and Logan reunite at a Christmas dinner, both with different partners who also have past romantic histories.

About the Movie

“Our Little Secret” is one of those films created with the firm purpose of making its main star shine. And that star is none other than Lindsay Lohan, who executes her role to perfection: charming, daring, and modern. The problem: we’ve been watching this same movie for Christmas for three years (that I can remember), and all three with Lindsay Lohan as the protagonist in more or less similar circumstances and in respective romantic comedies.

That said, if you’re a fan of the former Disney child star, you won’t be disappointed, because she’s present in all situations and is the protagonist of all the entanglements. The plot is not a surprise, the main character is not a surprise, and neither is it a surprise in terms of narrative or character construction.

“Our Little Secret” is a movie that delivers exactly what’s expected of it, no more, no less. It neither disappoints nor excites nor stands out among the productions created specifically for these dates close to Christmas. Lindsay Lohan, an experienced and good actress, plays the role she knows, with a mix of sophistication and classicism, with a daring touch while remaining traditional.

Alongside her, Ian Harding is an actor who knows how to play his part: accompanying the star and facilitating the protagonist’s shining moments. As is usual in romantic comedies, there are good supporting actors who fulfill their function: some jokes to liven up the main plot.

Regarding the plot, “Our Little Secret” knows how to play with the passage of time (a fundamental theme in Christmas movies) but, despite its attempt to sell us a different romantic comedy at the beginning, it soon returns to the traditional, which is nothing other than what is expected in these cases.

Another romantic comedy to forget? We very much fear so, although it has good production and the classic touch of the most traditional Hollywood, despite this traditional Hollywood having long since passed on to a better life.

Our Opinion

A movie that Lindsay Lohan fans will enjoy and that gives us exactly what we expect from a Christmas movie. Without surprising, fulfilling the script, and offering a good Christmas product.

Where to Watch “Our Little Secret”

Netflix

Julian Charrière’s “Solarstalgia” Debuts at ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art

French-Swiss artist Julian Charrière presents his first solo exhibition in Scandinavia, “Solarstalgia,” at ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art in Denmark. This exhibition marks a significant moment in contemporary art’s engagement with environmental issues.

Born in 1987, Charrière has established himself as a central figure in the international art scene. His work is characterized by an activist and scientific approach, exploring the evolving relationship between humanity and nature.

“Solarstalgia,” a play on the concept of solastalgia, addresses collective anxiety about environmental change and ecological collapse. The exhibition transforms the museum space into a darkened, marsh-like environment reminiscent of Carboniferous era swamps, highlighting the millennia-long process of organic matter transformation into fossil fuels.

The exhibition features several large-scale installations that underscore humanity’s exploitation of ancient landscapes. Key works include “Panchronic Garden” and “An Invitation to Disappear,” alongside new commissions. These installations invite viewers to project themselves into endangered ecosystems, potentially fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.

Visitors will find themselves immersed in a scenography that bridges past and present. The exhibition connects primordial forests with contemporary palm oil plantations, and juxtaposes fossilized sunshine extracted from coal pits with modern energy concerns. This temporal dissonance serves to emphasize the long-term consequences of human actions on the environment.

“Solarstalgia” forms part of ARKEN’s exhibition trilogy NATURE FUTURE, which examines the intricate relationships between humans, nature, and technology. This context amplifies the relevance of Charrière’s work within broader discussions of environmental art and ecological awareness.

It is worth noting that the exhibition employs strong flashes of light, darkness, and fog to create its immersive environment. Visitors are advised to enter at their own risk, as these elements may affect the viewing experience.

Julian Charrière: “Solarstalgia” will be on view at ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art, Ishøj, Denmark, from November 28, 2024, to April 20, 2025.