Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 84

“The Merry Gentlemen” – A Romantic Comedy on Netflix… Featuring Handsome Shirtless Guys

“The Merry Gentlemen” is a Netflix romantic comedy starring Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray. It is directed by Peter Sullivan.

Today, Netflix adds another romantic comedy to its lineup, this time making a significant contribution to the field of philosophy (disclaimer: we’re being ironic): it brings us a group of handsome men performing striptease acts.

Don’t expect anything that would offend the most traditional families: “The Merry Gentlemen” is the quintessential romantic comedy for the holiday season, perfect for watching, smiling, and then forgetting about within five minutes.

Plot

After being let go from a show in New York, Ashley returns to her hometown for Christmas. There, she discovers that her parents are struggling financially with the bar they’ve owned for years. To help them out, she decides to put together a dance show featuring attractive, shirtless men, and enlists Luke, a blonde and muscular guy with whom she falls madly in love.

About the MovieIf you’re a fan of romantic comedies, you’re going to enjoy “The Merry Gentlemen.” However, you have to be a die-hard fan of the genre, because otherwise, you’ll find it to be an utterly generic film that brings nothing new to the table. Its highest aim is to adhere strictly to the genre’s conventions: offering no originality, giving the audience all the expected holiday clichés, and incorporating the theme of male striptease in the vein of Full Monty or Magic Mike.

But don’t expect Steven Soderbergh’s touch here; instead, we have a family Christmas story that, despite flaunting certain “naughtiness” in its plot, never strays from its familial core.

Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray make an incredibly charming and attractive pair of would-be lovers, but the standout performance comes from Maxwell Caulfield. He plays the mature man who joins the group of young dancers, adding a quirky element to the mix.

Aside from that, you’ll find humor that is more or less family-friendly and nothing that will make you love Christmas any more than you already do: it’s classic and lacks any novel elements. It’s a blend of two genres that, while it could have been more daring, chooses to remain on the more traditional and family-oriented side of the holiday season.

Our Opinion

Watch, smile moderately, and then quickly and effectively forget.

Where to Watch “The Merry Gentlemen”

Netflix

Netflix introduces “GTMAX,” a French film that explores motorcycles, heists, and sibling loyalty

“GTMAX” is a French movie directed by Olivier Schneider starring
Ava Baya, Gérard Lanvin, and Riadh Belaïche.

“GTMAX” is a highly traditional thriller centered around motorcycles and a family’s deep passion for these machines. This film tells a classic story more about familial love than speed, focusing on character-driven narratives rather than action sequences. However, everything revolves around the captivating world of motorcycles, which, for some, is a way of life.

Plot Summary

A young man tries to make a living as a motocross racer, while his sister assists with mechanical tasks. The racing team is family-owned, and they face financial struggles to keep their business afloat as larger brands with superior motorcycles dominate the races. To help out, the siblings get entangled in a criminal network involving thefts and high-speed getaways on motorcycles. At the heart of this, there’s an extraordinary bike, both sturdy and fast, the GTMAX.

About the Film

“GTMAX” leans more towards a family drama than a traditional heist thriller. It’s the tale of a family trying to survive through their business, coping with the loss of their mother, and a father striving to hold the family together. It’s also about the profound bond between a brother and sister. On the flip side, the criminals, with their rather stereotypical profiles, serve to anchor the film’s thriller aspect and keep the audience hooked.

Netflix has a wide array of movies about motorcycles and speed, and “GTMAX” ranks decently in terms of narrative and cinematography, as well as its script, which is well-paced. It might not offer the high doses of spectacle that some viewers crave, as three-quarters of the film focus more on dialogues than on deadly, high-speed chases. Nevertheless, it tells a compelling story, particularly the parts dealing with family and the emotional aftermath of losing their mother.

Our Opinion

“GTMAX” features well-defined characters in a story that, although it promises more speed, adrenaline, and youthful chaos than it delivers, compensates with a well-told tale about loss and family bonds. It won’t be remembered for its spectacular elements or its storyline, which tends to be overly generic, but it stands out for its emotional depth and character development.

While “GTMAX” may not be the most thrilling film about motorcycles and speed to grace Netflix, it offers a touching narrative about a family’s struggle and the enduring love between siblings. This film strikes a balance between family drama and crime thriller, making it a worthwhile watch for those who appreciate well-developed characters and heartfelt storytelling.

Where to Watch “GTMAX”

Netflix

“Interior Chinatown” Premieres on Disney+: A Stylish Dramatic Comedy

“Interior Chinatown” is a hulu series starring Jimmy O. Yang with Ronny Chieng and Chloe Bennet.

Arriving on Disney+ today is “Interior Chinatown,” a dramatic comedy with a unique flair: entertaining and innovative, seamlessly blending reality and fantasy with great skill.

Today, Disney+ introduces a novel series, “Interior Chinatown,” to audiences worldwide. Adapted from Charles Yu’s book, this series stands out as it tells the story of a waiter aspiring to become an actor who unexpectedly finds himself entangled in a police investigation—mirroring the type of cases he dreams of portraying on screen but now finds himself dealing with in real life. The series masterfully navigates the divide between the real world and fiction, constantly breaking this barrier through daydreams and imaginary moments that morph into reality, complemented by strong direction and a script that deeply explores the characters’ inner lives. This show brings a refreshing, stylish, and original concept to the screen.

Plot

Willis Wu is a young man who dreams of becoming an actor but currently works as a waiter in a restaurant. His life takes a sudden turn when he gets involved in a fight at the restaurant and receives a visit from a police officer investigating a case related to Willis’s brother.

Interior Chinatown — “Translator” – Episode 106 — There’s something very wrong with this place. Uncle Eugene Wong (Archie Kao) and Willis Wu (Jimmy O. Yang), shown. (Photo by: Mike Taing/Hulu)

About the Series

This show offers a clever parody of the film-within-a-film concept, or in this instance, television. “Interior Chinatown” is both original and amusing while also tugging at the heartstrings. The series deftly navigates the line between the real and the surreal, turning fantasy into reality and transforming the grim aspects of life into a captivating television spectacle. “Interior Chinatown” presents itself as an action series on the surface, a comedic detective show, yet it harbors a biting commentary on life, particularly in Chinatown. It balances sadness with melancholy, humor with realism, and sorrow with joy in a masterful blend.

“Interior Chinatown” gives the impression of being filmed on a movie set, intentionally incorporating unrealistic elements to remind viewers that they are watching a television show. At certain moments, however, it shifts, becoming more realistic, somber, and tinged with a hint of bitterness. Nonetheless, the series shines through its comedic elements, action sequences, and the martial arts fantasy of the main character. Particularly entertaining are the augmented reality scenes, which further transport the character into a world that extends beyond the bounds of reality.

Our Opinion

“Interior Chinatown” is a series rich in style and personality, offering something refreshing and different. It is one of those shows that captivates the audience by intertwining a profound narrative with lighthearted and enjoyable moments. This comedy manages to present itself as just that—a comedy—while also serving as a satire on escaping the mundanity of daily life. The series hooks the viewer with its compelling story, blending deep, meaningful content with carefree, humorous elements, making it a standout addition to Disney+.

With its unique blend of elements and engaging storyline, “Interior Chinatown” extends beyond a mere television series, offering a reflective yet entertaining escape from the ordinary.

Where to Watch “Interior Chinatown”

Disney+ and hulu

New Steel Wire Sculptures by Pamela Merory Dernham

Pamela Merory Dernham has always drawn inspiration from the human form. Her latest pieces take this form in two distinct directions: one as a reference to the landscape, and the other as an interactive presence that directly engages the audience. Although rooted in the human figure, her steel wire sculptures are moving towards greater abstraction. The forms are pared down to the essentials, expressing themselves through gesture alone.

The artist holds a Master of Fine Arts from the California College of the Arts (CCA). She is an active participant in the Pacific Rim Sculptors Group and has also contributed to the Alumni Council of CCA.

Dernham’s work has been widely exhibited in California, featuring in both solo and group shows at venues like the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, the di Rosa Preserve, California College of the Arts, the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art, and JAMES BACCHI CONTEMPORARY in Palm Springs.

“Vignettes III”, 2024.  Painted steel wire on wood panel, 26 3/4″ H x 31 1/4″ W x 4” D

Photography Exhibition: “The 80s: Capturing Britain” at Tate Britain

Tate Britain proudly presents “The 80s: Photographing Britain,” a groundbreaking exhibition that examines the decade as a crucial period for the art of photography. Featuring nearly 350 photographs and archival materials from the era, the exhibition delves into how photographers used their cameras to respond to the significant social, political, and economic changes around them. Through their lenses, the exhibition explores how photography became a powerful tool for social representation, cultural celebration, and artistic expression during this important and creatively rich time.

This exhibition is the most extensive to date in examining the evolution of photography in the UK during the 1980s. Showcasing over 70 photographers and collectives, it highlights a generation that engaged with new ideas and practices in photography, ranging from well-known figures to emerging talents, including Maud Sulter, Mumtaz Karimjee, and Mitra Tabrizian. The exhibition features images taken across the UK, from John Davies’ post-industrial landscapes to Tish Murtha’s portraits of youth unemployment in Newcastle. Significant developments are explored, from advancements in color photography to the influence of cultural theory by scholars such as Stuart Hall and Victor Burgin, and influential publications like Ten.8 and Camerawork, which fostered new debates about photography.

The exhibition introduces viewers to Thatcher’s Britain through documentary photography that captures some of the most turbulent political events of the decade. History comes to life with striking images of the miners’ strikes by John Harris and Brenda Prince; anti-racism demonstrations by Syd Shelton and Paul Trevor; photographs of Greenham Common by Format Photographers; and projects addressing the conflict in Northern Ireland by Willie Doherty and Paul Seawright. Photography that documents a changing Britain and its growing inequalities is also presented, including Anna Fox’s images of corporate excess, Paul Graham’s observations of social security offices, and Martin Parr’s satirical views of Middle England. These are displayed alongside Markéta Luskačová and Don McCullin’s portraits of London’s vanishing East End and Chris Killip’s depictions of the transient ‘sea-coalers’ in Northumberland.

A series of thematic displays examine how photography became a compelling medium for representation. For Roy Mehta, Zak Ové, and Vanley Burke, who depict their multicultural communities, photography offers a platform for the people around them, while John Reardon, Derek Bishton, and Brian Homer’s Handsworth Self Portrait Project 1979 provides a joyful space for community self-expression. Many Black and South Asian photographers use portraiture to challenge marginalization against a backdrop of discrimination. The exhibition highlights photographers like Roshini Kempadoo, Sutapa Biswas, and Al-An deSouza who experiment with imagery to explore diasporic identities, and artists like Joy Gregory and Maxine Walker who use self-portraiture to celebrate Black beauty and femininity.

Against the backdrop of Section 28 and the AIDS epidemic, photographers also use their cameras to assert the presence and visibility of the LGBTQ+ community. Tessa Boffin subversively reimagines literary characters as lesbians, while Sunil Gupta’s ‘Pretended’ Family Relationships 1988 juxtaposes portraits of queer couples with the legislative language of Section 28. For some, their work reclaims sex-positivity during a time of fear. The exhibition highlights photographers Ajamu X, Lyle Ashton Harris, and Rotimi Fani-Kayode, who each focus on Black queer experiences and challenge stereotypes through powerful nude studies and intimate portraits. It also showcases how photographers from outside the queer community, including Grace Lau, were invited to depict them. Known for documenting fetishist sub-cultures, Lau’s series Him and Her at Home 1986 and Series Interiors 1986 tenderly capture members of this community defiantly continuing to exist.

The exhibition concludes with a series of works that celebrate countercultural movements throughout the 80s, such as Ingrid Pollard and Franklyn Rodgers’s vibrant documentation of underground performances and club culture. The show highlights the emergence of i-D magazine and its impact on a new generation of photographers like Wolfgang Tillmans and Jason Evans, who, with stylist Simon Foxton, pioneered a cutting-edge style of fashion photography inspired by this alternative and exciting wave of youth culture. This period reflects a new vision of Britain as it approached the dawn of the 1990s.

The Korean reality show “Zombieverse” returns for its second season: zombies, lots of zombies

“Zombieverse” is a reality show series created by Park Jin-kyung and Moon Sang-don.

“Zombieverse” is a unique Korean reality show that simulates a zombie outbreak in Korea. In the first season, we saw the impressive resources behind this production as it took us on a thrilling journey through Seoul, placing the participants in extreme situations.

In this second season, titled “New Blood,” the survivors from the first season are moved to Jeju Island (Korea), where a shelter awaits them. They will be joined by new participants and once again face the supposed zombie infestation that has spread across Korea.

Some of the participants believe in zombies while others remain skeptical, but all of them will undergo this experiment with cameras following their every move. They will need to work together, confront dangers, and constantly escape threats in another adventure that will take them to various locations, making them feel as if the world has indeed been overtaken by a dreadful outbreak.

An original, fun, and entertaining reality show that combines survival elements with touches of humor and a bit of horror.

There’s something for everyone on Netflix.

Enjoy!

Where to Watch “Zombieverse”

Netflix

Great Wall Wonders You Didn’t Know

When discussing the Great Wall, we often focus on its vast expanse and impressive construction, yet there are several lesser-known aspects that enrich its history. Surprisingly, the Wall is not a single, unbroken structure but a series of walls built by various dynasties over different periods. The earliest sections date back to the 7th century BC, reflecting the long and complex history of this monumental endeavor.

Beyond its defensive role, the Great Wall was integral in managing the movement of people and goods, especially along the Silk Road. Its function extended to regulating immigration and emigration, securing the transport of goods, and even controlling the spread of ideas and culture. The Wall effectively facilitated the exchange between regions within China and neighboring territories.

Many people believe the Great Wall can be seen from space with the naked eye, but this is a misconception. Despite its immense length, the Wall’s construction materials and design make it blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, rendering it nearly invisible from low Earth orbit. Astronauts have confirmed that without aid, such as powerful cameras or telescopes, spotting the Wall from space is highly improbable.

Another interesting detail about the Wall is its construction method. Workers used locally sourced materials, which varied according to the region. In mountainous areas, they primarily utilized stone, while in plains and desert regions, they often used rammed earth or bricks. This approach not only reduced transportation costs but also allowed the Wall to harmonize with its environment.

Moreover, the Wall’s defensive features were sophisticated and multi-functional. Some sections included double and even triple walls to create additional barriers against invaders. The use of smoke signals and fire beacons provided an early warning system that allowed messages to be relayed quickly over long distances. This method of communication was pivotal in coordinating defenses and mobilizing troops.

One intriguing aspect of the Great Wall is the labor force that built it. Contrary to the belief that only soldiers constructed the Wall, it was actually built by a diverse group of laborers, including peasants, criminals, and captured enemies. The massive scale of this project required immense manpower, and it’s estimated that hundreds of thousands of workers contributed to its construction over the centuries.

The Wall’s influence on local communities was profound. Villages and towns often sprang up near its base, benefiting from the increased security and trade opportunities it provided. The Wall also impacted agriculture, as it helped protect farmlands from raids, enabling more stable and prosperous farming conditions.

In some sections, the Wall features inscriptions and carvings left by those who built or guarded it. These markings offer a glimpse into the lives and thoughts of the people who spent significant portions of their lives on the Wall. They serve as historical records that add depth to our understanding of this grand structure.

Lastly, the Great Wall has faced significant challenges over time, from natural erosion to human damage. In modern times, efforts to preserve and restore the Wall have been undertaken, ensuring that this iconic symbol of China’s heritage continues to stand. Conservation projects are ongoing, highlighting the importance of maintaining such an important historical site for future generations.

Each of these rare facts underscores the complexity and significance of the Great Wall beyond its well-known reputation as a massive fortification.

Great Wall of China

Concealed Structures

Guard towers, for instance, were strategically placed at regular intervals along the Wall to serve as lookout points and communication hubs. These towers provided soldiers with vantage points to spot advancing threats and send alerts across the length of the Wall. These guard towers were distributed methodically along the Great Wall to maximize defensive coverage.

In addition to guard towers, the Wall also featured strategic passes or fortresses that were crucial for controlling access. Among the most important were the Juyong, Daoma, and Zijing passes, which were located close to Beijing. These passes played significant roles in the Wall’s defense strategy, serving as strongholds and gates for managing troop movements.

There are even tales of secret passages and hidden towers, although many remain undiscovered and are subjects of speculation. Such hidden elements added an extra layer of security, allowing troops to move stealthily or retreat if necessary.

Folklore and Myths

The Great Wall has inspired numerous stories and legends over the centuries, each adding to its allure and mystique. One of the most famous myths is that of Meng Jiangnu, a tale that speaks of love and sorrow. According to the legend, Meng Jiangnu’s husband was forced to work on the Wall and tragically died during its construction. Stricken with grief, she wept so bitterly that a section of the Wall collapsed, revealing his remains. This poignant story highlights the emotional toll the construction of the Wall had on the people of China and continues to be a popular tale that evokes empathy and sadness.

Another widespread myth involves the Wall’s supposed supernatural powers. Some stories suggest that the Wall is imbued with a protective spirit that guards it from harm and ensures its endurance through the ages. This belief underscores the cultural and spiritual importance of the Wall, reflecting the deep connection the Chinese people have with this monumental structure.

In addition to these human-centered stories, there are also legends of mythical creatures associated with the Wall. These creatures, often depicted in ancient Chinese art and literature, were believed to inhabit the areas surrounding the Wall and protect it from evil spirits. One such creature is the dragon, a powerful symbol in Chinese mythology that is said to have flown over the Wall, offering its protection and strength.

There are also stories of secret passages and hidden chambers within the Wall, adding an element of mystery and intrigue. While many of these passages remain subjects of speculation, they contribute to the sense of wonder surrounding the Wall. These hidden elements were believed to serve as escape routes or secret meeting places, allowing for stealthy movements and clandestine operations.

The Great Wall’s role in popular culture extends beyond folklore and myths. It has been featured in numerous films, books, and even video games, each interpretation adding a new layer to its mystique. These modern stories continue to captivate audiences, illustrating the enduring fascination with this ancient structure.

Additionally, the Wall has become a symbol of resilience and strength, often referenced in literature and speeches as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles. Its sheer size and the effort required to build it serve as a testament to human ingenuity and determination.

Another fascinating aspect is the Wall’s influence on local superstitions. In some regions, people believe that touching the Wall can bring good luck or that it has healing properties. These beliefs are a testament to the Wall’s powerful presence in the collective consciousness of the people who live near it.

The Wall has also inspired numerous ghost stories. Some locals believe that the spirits of those who perished during its construction still haunt certain sections. These ghost stories add an eerie dimension to the Wall’s rich tapestry of legends, making it a source of both fascination and fear.

Lastly, the Wall’s historical significance has given rise to various theories and speculations about its true purpose. While its primary role was defensive, some believe it also served as a monumental project to unify the nation or as a demonstration of the emperor’s power. These theories add depth to our understanding of the Wall, inviting us to consider its multifaceted significance.

In conclusion, the Great Wall is not just a physical structure but a repository of stories, myths, and legends that continue to captivate and inspire. These tales, whether rooted in historical events or born from the imagination, enrich our understanding of the Wall and enhance its mystique. Through these stories, the Wall transcends its role as a mere fortification, becoming a symbol of cultural heritage, human endurance, and timeless wonder.

The Role of AI and VR in the Next Generation of Video Games

With rapid technological advancements, AI and VR are transforming the face of the video gaming industry in ways that, until recently, had been the stuff of science fiction. These technologies are no longer experimental tools; they are now fast becoming key components central to the gaming experience, shaping the fundamental ways in which gamers will continue interacting with video games and the ways they immerse themselves in their experiences. This evolution crosses into genres, from story-driven games to chance-based formats like slots, giving players experiences that are simultaneously more customized, interactive, and visually appealing.

AI: Bringing Smarter Interactions to Life

Artificial intelligence in video games has already played a significant role and is becoming increasingly sophisticated. AI used in modern games helps in the making of more intelligent NPCs to respond appropriately to whatever the player does, thus creating a dynamic and lifelike world. AI-driven NPCs adapt to a player’s style by changing their behaviors and strategies in real-time.

AI can make gaming experiences in slots and other games of chance more personalized, as it would analyze players’ behavior and suggest a certain theme or even bonus rounds according to their taste. Currently, AI also extends its capabilities to such areas as game design: with its help, developers can construct real-world environments, story variations, and even procedural content that keeps players hooked.

A good example can be observed in open-world games: AI will be able to build landscapes and scenes while the player’s progress evolves to offer updated content without requiring manual updates. In multiplayer games, the experience can also be improved using AI-powered moderation tools that detect and limit improper behavior.

VR: Stepping into Immersive Worlds

Virtual reality introduces full immersion into gaming through virtual worlds. With VR headsets and equipment, players get to see a game from the first-person perspective something traditional screens cannot match in terms of realism and engagement.

In VR, one is not a viewer; instead, one is an actor, enabled to change things around, zoom into objects for a closer view, and feel part of the story. Such a platform has proved to be transformative in adventure games and simulations where immersion by a player is all-important.

Slots, as well as most casino games, are just getting VR versions so people can enjoy the feel of the casino while sitting in their own homes. Visualize standing on a virtual casino floor, reaching out to any machine, picking up any slot desired, touching other virtual patrons, and all this from within a VR headset. Combine the thrills of classic slots with the social and immersive features of a live casino environment.

The Power of AI and VR Combined

AI and VR develop huge synergies, amplifying gaming to a whole new level. AI enables the creation of VR worlds to become even more responsive and realistic, adapting in real-time to a player’s choices, making it unique for that player. For example, AI can analyze the players’ preferences and adjust the VR environment to introduce encounters, challenges, or visual elements that best correspond to each player’s style and preference. In competitive games, the AI avatars can replace absent players, which are gamers who cannot be there during that session.

With VR, players relate even more to characters and settings, hence having much richer cooperative or multiplayer experiences. The combination of AI and VR elevates single-player campaigns and enhances the multiplayer environment to become more interactive.

Real-World Applications and the Future of AI and VR in Gaming

While there are a few innovative uses of AI and VR within existing games, there is still a great deal of room for evolution. Now, VR development continues with the integration of haptic feedback systems sure to let players feel the impact of their actions within the game, a physical sense of immersion.

Meanwhile, AI evolves into advanced machine learning techniques, and NPCs become even more adaptive, learning from every move of a player. A mix of AI and VR could soon create gaming experiences in which the line between real life and the game will be blurred even further. AI enables real-time data analysis by aggregating player data to dynamically adjust gameplay. Such a feedback loop would tell developers what keeps players interested and, thus, how to tune the elements of the game to enable hyper-personalized, interactive games.

In Closing

With the integration of AI and VR together in video gaming, the games will be much more interactive, smart, and realistic than ever. As these technologies continue to evolve, they could even take us deep into worlds where everything becomes possible: where players can explore, learn, and interact.

Everything from adaptive NPCs and realistic VR environments to personalized game suggestions is continuing to rewrite what is possible within games through the ongoing advancement of AI and VR. This most definitely crafts the next generation in the universe of video gaming with an amalgamation of technologies that promise a future whereby the gaming world itself becomes as dynamic and responsive as the players.

“Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale” – A Netflix Documentary about Actress Nayanthara

“Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale” is a Netflix documentary about actress Nayanthara, and her recent marriage to filmmaker Vignesh Shivan. It is directed by Gautham Menon.

Nayanthara, the daughter of a military officer and a teacher, has become an iconic figure and a legend in Bollywood since she started her acting career as a child, almost by chance. Her journey has been rapid and filled with success. Now, Netflix presents a documentary that delves into her private life and marriage to filmmaker Vignesh Shivan.

About the Documentary

“Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale” is a traditional documentary that combines two viewpoints: a retrospective of her career and her wedding to Vignesh Shivan. The actress opens up her private life for the cameras, and the documentary includes some exclusive footage of the wedding.

“Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale” steers clear of controversy and portrays the actress’s life as she wishes: wonderful, human, and full of emotion. Fans of the actress, who number in the thousands and regard her as a media sensation in Bollywood, will surely appreciate it. The documentary offers an idealized image of the actress, supported by testimonials from those who know her, the filmmaker who discovered her, some close associates, and, of course, the actress herself, who shares her beginnings and wedding preparations.

As always, Netflix offers a diverse and unique array of content. This time, we have the chance to get close to the life of an Indian star who invites us into her world.
Enjoy.

Where to Watch “Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairy Tale”

Netflix

Stelio Savante, Starring In Amazon MGM Studios ‘Sarah’s Oil’ And Pinnacle Peak Picture’s ‘Between Borders’, Signs With Harter Allen Agency in the UK

Multilingual South African actor and producer, Stelio Savante, who has a SAG Award cast nomination for playing Steve in Ugly Betty, has signed with London based Harter Allen Agency for representation in Europe and the Middle East. Savante recently wrapped key roles in three upcoming films, all based on true stories; Sarah’s Oil, Between Borders, and Hazel.

Sarah’s Oil, directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh, is an Amazon MGM drama starring Zachary Levi, Naya Desir Johnson, Sonequa Martin Green, Garret Dillahunt, Bridget Regan, Kenric Green, Adyan Copes, Stelio Savante and Mel Rodriguez. The film will be released in theaters on December 25, 2025.

Between Borders, directed by Mark Freiburger, stars Elizabeth Tabish, Patrick Sabongui, and Stelio Savantewith Michael Paul Chan, and Elizabeth Mitchell. The drama is scheduled to release on January 26th in theaters nationwide, through Fathom events.

Survival thriller Hazel, directed by Daniel Bielinski stars Madelyn Dundon, Stelio Savante and Laurie Fortierwith Genevieve Bielinksi, Xavier Bielinski, David Reardon, Timothy Goodwin, Franni Rae Cash Cain, and Todd Terry filling out the lead ensemble.

Savante, also known as ‘Ajax’ in the Call Of Duty video game series and ‘Moses’ in the historical world-wide hit biblical series The Chosen,  is 140 international credits into his 4th decade as an actor. He is a prolific product of leading, large supporting, & recurring roles in television, independent, & international theatrically released studio features that have accumulated almost $400million in world-wide box office.

His most recent credits include Fresh Kills directed by Jennifer Espositostarring opposite Annabella Sciorra & Domenick Lombardozzi, the animated seriesCaptain Fall for Netflix, and in the psychological thriller Nefarious opposite Sean Patrick Flanery.

His producing credits include What Remains starring Cress Williams, Kellan Lutzand Anne Heche (STARZ and Gravitas Ventures), comedy Angry Neighbors (Lionsgate) starring Frank Langella, Bobby Cannavale, and Ashley Benson, football dramaUnder The Stadium Lights (SABAN)starring Laurence Fishburne, and Summer Of Violence, released by Quiver Distribution, directed by Nicki Micheaux, nominated as Best Narrative Feature at the Austin film festival.

He continues to be represented by Opus Entertainment, Exclusive Artists Agency in New York and Los Angeles, VOX, and Beverly Hills attorney, Kevin Mills of Kaye & Mills.

​The Harter Allen Agency was founded by Simon Allen. The agency’s clients have appeared in Oscar and BAFTA award winning films, as well as dramas from the UK to Hollywood and on stage in The West End, at The National Theatre, and for The Royal Shakespeare Company.