Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 94
October 18, 2024
“The Park Maniac” Movie on Prime Video: A Psychopath is on the Loose in Sao Paulo
“The Park Maniac” is a Brazilian thriller movie starring Silvero Perreira and Giovanna Grigio. It is directed by Mauricio Eça.
Prime Video brings us “The Park Maniac,” a gripping Brazilian thriller inspired by a true story involving a psychopath. While the film entertains, it doesn’t break new ground in the thriller genre or in cinematic conception. However, the production holds our interest more through the character of the journalist than through the psychopath, who notably deviates from the oft-used Hannibal Lecter archetype popularized by Hollywood.
In this respect, the film offers a more realistic portrayal, taking us deep inside the workings of a media organization, which proves to be its most intriguing aspect.
Plot Summary
In 1998, a young man brutally murdered several women in Sao Paulo. A young journalist breaks the story, beating her colleagues to the punch. Despite being sidelined due to her youth and inexperience, she decides to pursue the maniac of the park, embarking on a perilous quest that puts her own life at risk.
About the Movie
As a police thriller, “The Park Maniac” doesn’t bring anything groundbreaking to the table, but it achieves its goals effectively: offering a vivid portrayal of the world of print journalism in the late 1990s and presenting a much more realistic profile of a psychopath, far removed from Hollywood’s often novelistic prototypes.
“The Park Maniac” makes it clear from the outset who the murderer is, emphasizing his evident madness and rage. There’s no mystery about the culprit. Instead, the film focuses on the journalist’s efforts to carve out a niche in a world dominated by established reporters and highlights the struggles of youth to find their place.
Silvero Pereira delivers a commendable performance, but the movie belongs to the young actress Giovanna Grigio, who brings a powerful, coherent, and tension-filled portrayal to her role. She carries the weight of the story and the film, seizing this opportunity for international exposure.
The direction is solid, maintaining a good pace that captures the rhythm of the story without resorting to a series of dramatic twists. The film effectively builds tension within the newsroom and skillfully intertwines this with the pursuit of the culprit.
The film excels in editing, pacing, and music, resulting in an engaging movie about psychopaths that doesn’t aim to be just another horror story designed to scare us. Instead, it seeks realism and fidelity to the true events, steering clear of forced cinematic impact and allowing the story itself to take center stage.
With a compelling narrative and strong performances, “The Park Maniac” offers an absorbing look at the intersection of journalism and crime, making it a must-watch for fans of realistic thrillers.
Where to Watch “The Park Maniac”
“The Blue Cave” Movie on Prime Video: A Turkish Film that Strikes Straight to the Heart
“The Blue Cave” is a Turkish romantic movie starring Kerem Bürsin, Devrim Özkan, and Yüsra Geyik. it is directed by Altan Dönmez.
The thriving Turkish film and television industry seems to have based its success not only on quality but also on the appeal of its protagonists and the sentimentality of its narratives. “The Blue Cave” is one of those films specifically crafted for that segment of the audience seeking the romantic facet of existence. It is also a highly dreamy movie, one of reverie, discovery, and ultimately, a gaze into the heart.
Plot
Following a promise made to a woman he loved, a man ventures into a cave to embark on an inward journey that will lead him to remember his true self.
The Blue Cave –
Prime Video
About the Movie
“The Blue Cave” is not a film aimed at critics, nor is it one of those movies filled with subtlety in either its script or visuals. It clearly showcases its virtues and intentions without hiding them at any point. Do you enjoy sensitive cinema? Perfect, because “The Blue Cave” is a sensitive film that, without concealing it at any moment, avoids any subtlety and displays the protagonist’s arguments and feelings throughout.
Cinematically, the film features romantic music at all times and magnificent landscapes that seek an almost poetic extreme beauty to accompany the protagonist on his journey. It is a film that understands its audience, knows what they want, how they want it, and what narrative approach is appropriate. This narrative places all its strength in the sentiment, romance, and evolution of the protagonist.
“The Blue Cave” is a very television-like movie, in the sense that it openly displays its intentions and characters. It is a film about inner journeys, rebirths, and above all, love.
Our Opinion
It is not for all audiences and may not appeal to everyone, but it knows what to say and who its audience will be. It trusts this audience and gives them what they want: an appealing main character full of fears, very romantic, in a paradisiacal setting that will lead him to the depths of his being.
Where to Watch “The Blue Cave”
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” – Movie on Netflix: Where’s the Line Between Deception and Altered Reality?
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” is an Argentine film starring Leonardo Sbaraglia. It is directed by Diego Lerman.
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” is an unconventional and distinctive film that navigates the realms of drama and comedy while humorously posing fundamental questions: Does reality truly exist, or is it merely a construct of language and media fiction?
This film is entertaining, intelligent, and ironic, going far beyond the surface of its narrative. Leonardo Sbaraglia delivers a remarkable performance, embodying a complex and ambivalent character filled with doubts and excesses, yet grounded in reality.
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” is a unique and unusual movie that conveys more through irony than with grandiose effects.
A film that skillfully engages the audience, inviting them to ponder through humor.
The Man Who Loved UFOs –
Netflix
Plot
A television presenter who has just experienced an attack is tasked with investigating the remnants of a UFO sighting in the province of Córdoba, Argentina. Seizing this opportunity, he decides to bring the incident to national television, transforming the sighting into a spectacle.
About the Film
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” is a film brimming with intelligence and irony where nothing is definitive: Was the object really seen? Ultimately, it doesn’t matter because the film addresses something else entirely, turning into a metaphor for truth and the world of media.
Does the journalist reshape reality to his whims? Where is the boundary between spectacle and this altered reality?
The Man Who Loved UFOs” explores these questions, presenting a compelling narrative around a tormented character, leaving us to wonder if he’s insane or perfectly sane, if his eccentricities are part of his presenter persona, or if reality is something else altogether.
Sane or not, this presenter decides to turn the entire event into a spectacle, and the audience, complicit in the deception, begins to question what the film genuinely aims to achieve: posing fundamental and even transcendent questions.
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” isn’t a Hollywood blockbuster and, in this regard, also uses irony to create amusing and comedic situations.
Our Opinion
“The Man Who Loved UFOs” excels in one crucial aspect: it says a lot through irony and lets the audience determine where the truth lies, much like the presenter does with his fake news. It intelligently and humorously raises fundamental questions, leaving a lasting impression as a film that works both as a thought-provoking piece and as an entertaining experience.
With a blend of humor and depth, “The Man Who Loved UFOs” engages viewers in a unique way, encouraging them to reflect on the blurred lines between reality and fiction, all while delivering an enjoyable cinematic journey.
Where to Watch “The Man Who Loved UFOs”
“The Turnaround” – A Short Documentary on Netflix That Confronts Us with Reality
“The Turnaround” is a short film documentary directed by Ben Proudfoot and Kyle Thrash.
“The Turnaround” stands out as a unique documentary, from its inception to its execution. Is it a documentary about baseball? That might be the initial impression, but it is not merely about baseball. However, the sport significantly influences the life of a devoted fan featured in the film.
In Philadelphia, a local baseball team recruits a star player. The team appears doomed to failure, and they hope this acquisition will turn their fortunes around. Yet, nothing changes, and a seemingly endless streak of losses ensues, bringing an atmosphere of despair and defeat.
Parallel to this, the documentary follows the life of a fan whose existence seems to mirror that of the struggling player. This local supporter perceives his own life as an extension of his team’s failures. Nevertheless, he holds onto hope despite the continuous setbacks.
About the Documentary
“The Turnaround” is distinct, candid, and profoundly human. It portrays a man who regularly visits his therapist, seeking guidance and understanding in navigating life’s challenges. The narrative, however, extends beyond mere baseball talk to explore the deeper aspects of his life. He shares his story, emphasizing the significance of baseball but revealing the underlying essence: his lifelong struggles and efforts to cope since childhood, perpetually faced with difficulties.
These challenges have led him to dire circumstances, much like anyone else, even contemplating suicide. Yet, this fan perseveres, much like his team, striving to fight on and seeking support, particularly from his parents in this case.
“The Turnaround” is a documentary about life and overcoming adversities by any means necessary, showcasing the human spirit’s relentless drive to push forward. It presents a different perspective on reality, focusing not on the sport itself but on how, both on and off the field, the player and the fan battle to overcome an unspoken yet omnipresent problem.
This intimate and special documentary delves deeply into the human side of its subjects. At just twenty minutes in length, “The Turnaround” manages to be a poignant and significant piece available on Netflix. It is not just about baseball; it is about resilience, hope, and the relentless human spirit.
Where to Watch “The Turnaround”
“Happiness Is” on Netflix: A Romantic Comedy from South Africa
“Happiness Is” is a South African movie directed by Nthabiseng Mokoena and Naledi Ya Naledi starring Renate Stuurman.
“Happiness Is” debuts on Netflix today, bringing with it the charm and carefree nature of a straightforward romantic comedy that doesn’t aim to complicate life—for the characters or the viewers.
Plot Summary
The narrative centers on a woman nearing her 40th birthday whose life is in disarray. Her ex-partner has just embarked on a new relationship, her daughter has begun experimenting with lipstick, and she is struggling to keep up with her successful career. Amidst all this chaos, she encounters an attractive chef. As if this wasn’t enough, a group of friends unexpectedly crashes her home to celebrate her birthday.
About the Film
This film is a quintessential romantic comedy that adheres to the conventions of South African productions: simplicity, ensemble storytelling, romantic entanglements, and a tone reminiscent of a Hallmark movie. The characters are predominantly successful women who, despite their professional achievements, have yet to find love. Rest assured, romance will indeed unfold as the movie progresses.
“Happiness Is” adheres to the visual and narrative formulas we’ve seen for years in television. The film provides exactly what the audience anticipates within a successful and affluent setting. This tried-and-true formula, whether we like it or not, continues to be a hit: showcasing the lives of professionally successful individuals who are less fortunate in their personal lives. This time, we are treated to a romantic comedy, and in terms of the script, “Happiness Is” doesn’t aim to surprise us but rather to offer a pleasant, entertaining experience that allows us to unwind.
For those in search of a simple, television-style production featuring successful characters on a quest for personal love, “Happiness Is” is yet another option in Netflix’s diverse array of choices. The final verdict, of course, lies with the audience.
Where to Watch “Happiness Is”
October 17, 2024
“Brothers” on Prime Video – Movie Review: A Pleasant Family Heist Comedy
“Brothers” is a comedy movie starring Josh Brolin and Peter Dinklage. With Brendan Fraser and Glenn Close. It is directed by Max Barbakow.
“Brothers” is reminiscent of classic comedies from yesteryears, centering on a family of thieves reuniting after many years. The film is filled with amusing escapades and humorous situations, much like the type of comedy one would have rented from a video store without expecting to remember much about it later.
The movie boasts a strong ensemble cast who, by all appearances, enjoyed their time during filming. The actors seem quite at ease in their comedic roles, contributing to the film’s light-hearted nature, even if the jokes are somewhat simplistic.
The plot follows two brothers who were raised with little discipline after their mother left them in the care of their grandmother following a heist that forced her to flee. Years later, the family reunites to retrieve the stolen emeralds from that fateful robbery.
About the film
This heist comedy utilizes a formula that found relative success years ago. Here, director Max Barbakow revisits this formula with mixed results. Throughout the film, there’s a persistent feeling that it lacks any profound message, destined to be just another entry in the actors’ extensive filmographies. Despite this, the cast seems to have enjoyed themselves, and no one appears to have been significantly affected by the experience. “Brothers” meanders from one joke to the next, with an almost non-existent plot, focusing on delivering humorous scenes rather than maintaining any consistent rhythm.
If you enjoy movies with somewhat silly, nonsensical jokes that don’t require an Ivy League degree to understand, “Brothers” could be just another choice for you. The film doesn’t distinguish itself from the myriad of other comedies featuring somewhat forced humor made simply to entertain for a brief period.
The standout performance comes from Glenn Close, who plays the mother of the two brothers. She delivers a very entertaining portrayal. Special mention goes to Marisa Tomei, who always brings a delightful touch to her roles. In this film, she is particularly amusing and quirky, especially in her scenes with a gorilla companion.
Our opinion
Looking for a movie to take your mind off the world for a while? With no grand ambitions or intricate plots, “Brothers” is the kind of film that won’t leave a lasting impression. However, it might just offer the temporary escape you’re seeking.
Where to Watch “Brothers”
“Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance”: Animated Series on Netflix – Embracing the Spirit of the Original Manga with Cutting-Edge Visual Effects
“Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance” is a Netflix animation series directed by Erasmus Brosdau. It is written by Gavin Hignight.
Since its debut in 1979, the Gundam (ガンダムシリーズ) manga has spawned a multitude of animated series, each adhering to the core tenets of its original narrative: a militaristic dystopian future dominated by human-piloted robots known as “Mobile Suit Gundam.” Netflix’s new animated series “111111111111” stays true to the franchise’s legacy, while incorporating a key modern element—spectacular, state-of-the-art visual effects. Over the decades, animation technology has advanced significantly, and in “Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance,” fans are treated to next-generation effects paired with a storyline that remains deeply faithful to the original manga.
At the helm of this series is Erasmus Brosdau, a young German director who makes a grand entrance into the international scene through Netflix with this visually stunning piece of animation.
About the Series
“Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance” is pure science fiction and pure action, executed in a distinctly military style. This series is far from a fantasy; it is a science fiction war animation replete with intense battles, centering on military efforts to reclaim a base in Eastern Europe. The identities of the protagonists are clear—they are the “good guys”—and while they must operate without their impressive robots for a time, their marksmanship remains impeccable, as showcased in the series.
However, in “Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance,” the narrative takes a backseat to the true star of the show: the breathtaking animation. The visuals are reminiscent of a high-end video game, yet even more enhanced in terms of graphical fidelity. The series boasts a dynamic pace, intricate editing, and the production company, Bandai Namco (a name likely familiar to many), ensures that nothing detracts from the visual spectacle. This is not a series for philosophical musings or experimental cinema; it is a feast for the eyes, designed to deliver a purely visual experience.
While “Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance” may not appeal to purists or fans of 1990s animated series, its remarkable visual elements alone make it worth watching. It may not satisfy those seeking depth or narrative complexity, but for viewers looking for a dazzling display of modern animation technology, “Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance” delivers precisely that.
Where to Watch “Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance”
“Outside” – A Netflix Film: Just Another Zombie Movie?
“Outside” is a Netflix horror movie written and directed by Carlo Ledesma. It stars Sid Lucero, Beauty Gonzalez, Marco Masa, and James Blanco.
If you were born with an inherent fondness for apocalyptic zombie films, you’ve come to the right place. Unlike the isolated protagonists of these series and movies, you are certainly not alone; there is a legion of fans, and each year the film industry rewards their loyalty with a plethora of series, movies, animations, and books. “Outside” is yet another zombie film, this time hailing from the Philippines and brought to us by Netflix. As you may know, Netflix has made a significant investment in Philippine cinema, particularly excelling in the horror thriller genre with increasingly high-quality productions.
“Outside” is commendable in every aspect: it boasts impressive cinematography, well-developed characters, and a screenplay that skillfully leverages the strengths of its story to construct a compelling zombie thriller.
Outside – NetflixPlot Synopsis
A family travels to the ancestral home of the husband’s parents, only to discover their worst fears realized: the zombie epidemic, which is everywhere, has reached them as well. There is nowhere to hide, nowhere to escape; they can only wait for something to happen amidst the frustration, fear, and a disintegrating marriage.
About the Film
“Outside” stands out primarily for its solid screenplay and competent direction. However, it’s hard to avoid the sentiment of “yet another zombie movie,” as despite the commendable efforts of the filmmakers, this genre remains predictable in many ways. Nevertheless, this predictability seems to captivate audiences, and the productions continue to roll out with undeniable success, even garnering critical acclaim.
“Outside” does not feature visually striking treatments or memorable sequences that linger in the mind, but it is a good film that achieves its goals: telling an intimate story within an apocalyptic setting. In this sense, “Outside” innovates by presenting a marriage in crisis from which there is no escape. Divorce is not an option here, and the enforced coexistence adds a layer of tension. The film handles this aspect quite well.
Regarding the zombies, “Outside” does not offer spectacular effects or brutal action scenes, so it may not be among the favorites of hardcore genre enthusiasts. Despite its good cinematography and screenplay, it struggles to stand out in a genre crowded with titles and high-budget superproductions.
Our Opinion
While “Outside” is a well-made film with a strong screenplay and intelligent direction, it remains anchored within its genre and does not excel in terms of spectacle. However, it does shine when it comes to storytelling. This film represents another step forward for the Philippine film industry, which is gradually solidifying its reputation in the Asian cinematic world for its quality productions.
Where to Watch “Outside”
“The Shadow Strays” – Netflix Film: Action, Violence, Gangs, Vengeance, and an Abundance of Blood
“The Shadow Strays” is a Netflix thriller movie written and directed by Timo Tjahjanto starring Aurora Ribero, Hana Malasan, Kristo Immanuel, Andri Mashadi, and Ali Fikry.
Timo Tjahjanto returns to the realm of brutal and bloody action in this film that makes no pretense about its intentions. From the very first scene, it sets the tone for a spectacle filled with action, swords, gunfire, and, above all, an overwhelming amount of bloodshed.
If you are a fan of Asian-style brutal action, this film will undoubtedly cater to your tastes. However, be warned: it prioritizes well-choreographed action sequences over a compelling script.
Whether it’s literature or film, preferences vary greatly among audiences. With this in mind, the director has chosen to honor the segment of viewers who revel in brutal and ultra-violent action.
Plot
The narrative centers on a clandestine group that operates outside the law. These assassins are flawless in their execution, carrying out orders from various clans without asking questions. One of the female assassins decides to leave the group, but she soon finds herself a target amidst a war between mafia clans in Jakarta.
About the Film
“The Shadow Strays” has one commendable attribute: it doesn’t deceive anyone. It makes no attempt to appear as an art-house film and doesn’t aspire to change your life. It knows it is a piece of entertainment and consistently acts as such, targeting a specific audience and staying true to its objectives. These objectives are none other than delivering relentless and brutal action, providing one action sequence after another.
For many viewers, especially those who crave a solid storyline and script, the film may prove to be exhausting. “The Shadow Strays” consciously deviates from the path of narrative depth, choosing instead to focus on ultra-violent action and presenting a festival of decapitations, stabbings, kicks, punches, and gunfire.
This is not a film that revolves around its script. Characters are introduced in almost identical manners: a gallery of psychopaths who shoot at each other, with the heroine meting out justice in between. It’s one of those films featuring a lone woman against a thousand rival gangs, showcasing a choreography of violence and gunfire.
While the concept is not groundbreaking, “The Shadow Strays” aims to push it to the extreme, a fact we can appreciate. Thus, “The Shadow Strays” becomes a spectacle for a certain type of audience. However, for those who prefer intelligent dialogue and nuanced plots, it will likely be profoundly uninteresting. There’s no middle ground here; the director chooses his path and remains committed to it until the end of the film.
Our Opinion
The film is intriguing, brutal, and action-packed. It boasts excellent cinematic treatment, impressive editing, and high-quality sound. Visually, there is nothing to criticize about this well-crafted genre piece.
Where to Watch “The Shadow Strays”
The Art of Małgorzata Mirga-Tas: A Significant Exhibition at Tate St Ives
This fall, Tate St Ives unveils the first substantial UK exhibition dedicated to Małgorzata Mirga-Tas, an artist born in Zakopane, Poland. Raised in the Romani community of Czarna Góra, nestled at the base of the Tatra Mountains, Mirga-Tas continues to reside and work there. Her artistic narrative, deeply rooted in a feminist viewpoint and a continuous engagement with her community, actively confronts and subverts stereotypical portrayals of Roma people. She is widely recognized for her vibrant textile collages, meticulously crafted from materials and fabrics sourced from family and friends. The exhibition at Tate St Ives showcases over 25 pieces, including six brand new works displayed for the first time.
Mirga-Tas’s work highlights the quotidian experiences of her community— their relationships, alliances, and collective activities—by portraying those nearest to her, such as family members, collaborators, fellow artists, and activists. Often collaborating with other women, she constructs patchworks using materials like curtains, jewelry, handkerchiefs, shirts, and sheets, which she sews together to create what she refers to as ‘microcarriers of history.’ Additionally, she reinterprets historical artworks that have depicted Roma identity negatively, transforming them into dynamic images filled with strength and dignity. Her pieces blend realism with the creation of a visual lexicon of Romani culture, alongside abstracted scenes featuring figures and animals. The artist also revisits specific historical events, such as the Romani genocide during World War II, commemorating its victims through her work.
Małgorzata Mirga-Tas ‘Out of Egypt’ from the series ‘Out of Egypt’, 2021. © Małgorzata Mirga-TasNotably, Mirga-Tas is the first artist of Romani heritage to have her works acquired by Tate. All three of these works are featured in the exhibition. They include Sewn with Threads (2019) and My Mother (2019), which are part of a broader 10-piece series titled Roma Madonna (2016–2020). This series depicts scenes from the everyday lives of Roma women in Poland. Both works are freestanding, folding wooden screens with three double-sided fabric panels, constructed from vivid patchworks painted with acrylic. The Three Graces (2021) is also displayed for the first time since its acquisition by Tate. This piece is based on a photograph taken in the 1980s by the artist’s uncle, Andrzej Mirga, who was the sole Roma ethnographer in Poland at that time.
The exhibition also features six portraits from her 2022 series Siukar Manusia (translating to great or wonderful people), which portray first-generation Romani inhabitants of the Nowa Huta district in eastern Kraków. These portraits range from concentration camp survivors and activists to renowned musicians, created using textiles that were found or donated. Additionally, the show includes a piece from Mirga-Tas’s 2021 Out of Egypt series, initially presented as a series of six at the Arsenal Gallery in Bialystok. In these works, she draws inspiration from early-17th-century etchings, creating her own large-scale embroidered versions using objects and textiles from her community.
One of the exhibition’s highlights is a monumental fabric panel from the 59th Venice Biennale, where Mirga-Tas was the first Romani artist to represent a country. The piece, titled June 2022, is part of her series Re-enchanting the World. This panel is one of 12, each representing a month of the year and inspired by a fresco cycle at the Palazzo Schifanoia in Ferrara. It is accompanied at Tate St Ives by several other recent works and six newly created pieces, all making their debut at this exhibition.
This exhibition at Tate St Ives not only offers a comprehensive overview of Małgorzata Mirga-Tas’s artistic journey but also provides an insightful look into the rich cultural tapestry and historical narrative of the Romani community through her innovative and evocative textile art.
Małgorzata Mirga-Tas, ‘Sewn with Threads’ 2019. Tate. Exhibition view – I Have a Dream, Goteborgs Konsthall, 2023
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