Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 99

“The Platform 2” Debuts on Netflix: A Kafkaesque Horror Thriller with Profound Social Commentary

“The Platform 2” is a movie directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia starring Milena Smit, Hovik Keuchkerian, Natalia Tena y Óscar Jaenada.

Dive into the harrowing depths of “The Platform 2,” a nightmarish odyssey exploring themes of struggle, social justice, and religion across 333 torturous levels. This brutal allegory masterfully portrays life, social stratification, indoctrination, societal norms, and humanity’s ceaseless quest to quell an insatiable hunger. As the much-anticipated sequel to the 2019 Netflix hit, “The Platform 2” loses some of the original’s shock value but compensates with superior technical prowess and a well-crafted script, making it a worthy successor in a genre-defying cinematic landscape.

The film stands out at a technical level, showcasing the director’s adept use of cinematic tools to immerse the audience in a surreal, harrowing nightmare reflective of the human condition.

Plot Synopsis

The story plunges us into an unsettling experiment where prisoners inhabit various levels of a vertical prison. A platform laden with food descends from the top, requiring each level’s inmates to consume only their allocated portion. Defiance of this rule results in fatal consequences. With two prisoners per level spanning a total of 333 tiers, the system is designed to ensure equitable food distribution. However, the grim reality is that the food never reaches the lower levels intact. Who, then, dares to break the rules, disrupting this fragile ecosystem?

Film Overview

“The Platform 2” offers a terrifying yet poignant metaphor for social order and the inherent contradictions of the human psyche. It captures the absurdity and inherent selfishness within us all while critiquing the very structures that claim to ensure fairness but often result in glaring injustices. The concept remains as powerful today as it was in 2019, and director Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia reimagines the premise from scratch, making this sequel accessible to newcomers and veterans alike. While it might evoke memories of the cult classic “Cube” (1997), known for its groundbreaking impact on science fiction, “The Platform 2” transcends mere imitation. It offers deeper metaphorical insights and a more socially conscious narrative.

“The Platform 2” is grounded in a compelling script, co-written by Gaztelu-Urrutia, Pedro Rivero, Egoitz Moreno, and David Desola. Yet, the film’s true triumph lies in its meticulous editing, stunning visual effects, and immersive setting. The director’s unwavering commitment and visionary direction bring to life a nightmarish universe that extends beyond mere horror to serve as a profound metaphor for societal structures, human existence, and the eternal internal struggle of mankind.

While not universally palatable, “The Platform 2” is a thought-provoking film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. It’s a film that challenges perceptions and invites introspection, ultimately offering a memorable cinematic experience.

So, prepare yourself for a journey into the dark recesses of the human psyche and societal critique. “The Platform 2” is not just a film to watch but an experience to be savored and reflected upon. Enjoy the ride.

Where to Watch “The Platform 2”

Netflix

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“The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist”: A Halloween Delight for Kids on Netflix

This Halloween, Netflix introduces a charming 30-minute special titled “The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist.” Join the lovable band of animated thieves—Libo, the shark, the piranha, and the tarantula—as they embark on a whimsical heist in an old haunted mansion, encountering a slew of unexpected surprises along the way.

Anticipating the spooky season, Netflix rolls out a variety of Halloween-themed programs this month, much to the delight of horror aficionados. However, “The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist” stands out as a delightful treat for younger viewers. This lighthearted caper is poised to become a cherished classic in Netflix’s holiday lineup.

While the storyline may be simple and straightforward, fitting perfectly with the essence of Halloween specials, it’s bound to captivate the hearts of children. They are sure to enjoy this enchanting episode.

Where to Watch “The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist”

Netflix

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The Netflix series “Heartstopper” triumphantly returns for its third season

“Heartstopper” is a Netflix series starring Joe Locke and Kit Connor. It is created by Alice Oseman.

This unique show celebrates love in all its forms, revolving around a diverse group of young individuals navigating the tumultuous journey of sentimental initiation, each with their own distinct sexual orientations. Garnering widespread acclaim, the series offers a refreshing perspective on sexuality and relationships, highlighting the varied orientations prevalent today.

About the series

Are you in search of a thriller or a traditional romantic comedy? This innovative series defies conventional genres, steering clear of cinematic and television clichés to delve into the rich tapestry of diversity and, more specifically, teenage romance. “Heartstopper” is a heartfelt tribute to love, characterized by its tenderness, charm, and authenticity.

It doesn’t seek to win over every viewer, nor does it try. Instead, it targets a youthful audience eager to explore their emotions, feelings, and inner contradictions. The series is a genuine exploration featuring well-crafted characters, an engaging script, and a keen, intelligent perspective that resonates with the new generation.

“Heartstopper” stands out as a thoughtful and sensitive portrayal aimed at teenagers, offering a novel and nuanced view of sexual orientations and romance. This series is a must-watch, especially for the young at heart.

Where to Watch “Heartstopper”

Netflix

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Swedish Film “Trouble” on Netflix: A Delightful Blend of Comedy and Thriller

“Trouble” is a Netflix movie starring Filip Berg. With Amy Diamond and Eva Melander. It is directed by John Holmberg.

“Trouble” is a Swedish cinematic gem available on Netflix that masterfully intertwines the crime thriller genre with classic comedy. This film achieves an impressive balance, entertaining its audience while maintaining the gripping pace typical of thrillers. The success of this dual-genre approach is largely due to its clever, ironic script and a series of outlandish situations that keep viewers hooked from start to finish.

At the heart of “Trouble” is Filip Berg, who delivers a stellar performance reminiscent of a comic twist on the iconic “The Fugitive” (1993). His portrayal of the awkward protagonist, Conny, is both engaging and endearing. Although the film’s humor is sometimes silly, it is executed with such effectiveness that it enhances rather than detracts from the overall experience. We found ourselves thoroughly entertained.

Plot Summary

The story revolves around Conny, a hapless salesman who, by a stroke of bad luck, becomes embroiled in a murder case. Wrongfully convicted, he is sentenced to prison. However, to clear his name, Conny must escape from jail and gather the evidence necessary to prove his innocence. This premise sets the stage for a series of hilarious and thrilling escapades.

About the Film

“Trouble” thrives on its surreal humor, which, although occasionally absurd, is incredibly effective. The film draws viewers into its unique world with a light-hearted plot and a cast of charming characters. What makes this film stand out is its ability to push boundaries—combining elements of a murder thriller with humor, crafting a family-friendly yet crime-centered narrative. It taps into the very essence of comedy by disrupting our expectations and providing moments of relaxation and laughter when least expected.

The film excels in playing with the clichés of prison movies, thrillers, and family films, cleverly mocking them without descending into outright parody. The dialogues are a blend of silliness and intelligence, constantly navigating the paradox that underpins a good sense of humor. While it may not be the most exceptional thriller or the greatest comedy ever made, “Trouble” succeeds in entertaining and amusing its audience. Deep down, we can’t help but develop a fondness for Filip Berg’s portrayal of the charmingly foolish Conny.

Our Verdict

“Trouble” is a delightful mix of comedy and thriller that manages to infuse classic humor with a touch of surrealism. In the end, it stands out as a unique film that achieves a rare sense of originality. We thoroughly enjoyed it and believe it is well worth a watch for anyone seeking an entertaining and unconventional cinematic experience.

Where to Watch “Trouble”

Netflix

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“Chef’s Table: Noodles” Documentary Series on Netflix: A Gastronomic Journey for Pasta Enthusiasts

If pasta holds a special place in your heart, prepare to be enchanted by the captivating documentary series “Chef’s Table: Noodles” available on Netflix. Spanning four episodes, this series delves deeply into the realm of pasta, with a particular focus on noodles.

However, “Chef’s Table: Noodles” is not just your run-of-the-mill cooking show; it is a remarkable voyage that traverses the globe, exploring diverse recipes and culinary traditions, all through the lens of pasta. While pasta may seem like a straightforward dish, its popularity stems from its simplicity, yet it boasts a staggering complexity in terms of varieties and preparation methods. Thanks to Netflix, we can now embark on this delightful culinary adventure through these four enthralling episodes.

Each episode shines a spotlight on a distinguished chef who has devoted their life to the art of pasta-making. One chef crafts fresh handmade pasta, another specializes in dry pasta, while two remarkable women guide us into the enchanting world of oriental cuisine, showcasing their culinary prowess and the intricate preparation techniques behind their extraordinary dishes.

We are introduced to four exceptional chefs, each rooted in a different part of the world, yet all exuding a distinctly international flavor. The series features two Italian maestros, Evan Funke and Peppe Guida, a Chinese culinary artist from the Siam region, Guirong Wei, and a Vietnamese virtuoso, Nite Yun. These four culinary geniuses invite us into their kitchens, where they share not only their delectable creations but also their profound knowledge of pasta and the captivating stories of their lives.

About the Documentary

“Chef’s Table: Noodles” is a meticulously crafted documentary series, characterized by exquisite cinematography. Each of the four episodes is treated with exceptional care and tenderness, offering glimpses into the chefs’ places of origin, intimate kitchen interviews, and, most importantly, unveiling the secrets behind their culinary masterpieces.

Every chef has their own unique secrets and recipes, yet they all share a common thread: a deep respect for the cultural heritage that has elevated pasta and noodles to one of the most beloved ingredients worldwide. Despite its apparent simplicity, this versatile food can be transformed into a true delicacy.

Are you ready to uncover the wonders of this fascinating world? Tune in to Netflix starting this Wednesday and let “Chef’s Table: Noodles” take you on an unforgettable culinary journey.

Where to Watch “Chef’s Table: Noodles”

Netflix

The post “Chef’s Table: Noodles” Documentary Series on Netflix: A Gastronomic Journey for Pasta Enthusiasts appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.

“Chef’s Table: Noodles” Documentary Series on Netflix: A Gastronomic Journey for Pasta Enthusiasts.

If pasta holds a special place in your heart, prepare to be enchanted by the captivating documentary series “Chef’s Table: Noodles” available on Netflix. Spanning four episodes, this series delves deeply into the realm of pasta, with a particular focus on noodles.

However, “Chef’s Table: Noodles” is not just your run-of-the-mill cooking show; it is a remarkable voyage that traverses the globe, exploring diverse recipes and culinary traditions, all through the lens of pasta. While pasta may seem like a straightforward dish, its popularity stems from its simplicity, yet it boasts a staggering complexity in terms of varieties and preparation methods. Thanks to Netflix, we can now embark on this delightful culinary adventure through these four enthralling episodes.

Each episode shines a spotlight on a distinguished chef who has devoted their life to the art of pasta-making. One chef crafts fresh handmade pasta, another specializes in dry pasta, while two remarkable women guide us into the enchanting world of oriental cuisine, showcasing their culinary prowess and the intricate preparation techniques behind their extraordinary dishes.

We are introduced to four exceptional chefs, each rooted in a different part of the world, yet all exuding a distinctly international flavor. The series features two Italian maestros, Evan Funke and Peppe Guida, a Chinese culinary artist from the Siam region, Guirong Wei, and a Vietnamese virtuoso, Nite Yun. These four culinary geniuses invite us into their kitchens, where they share not only their delectable creations but also their profound knowledge of pasta and the captivating stories of their lives.

About the Documentary

“Chef’s Table: Noodles” is a meticulously crafted documentary series, characterized by exquisite cinematography. Each of the four episodes is treated with exceptional care and tenderness, offering glimpses into the chefs’ places of origin, intimate kitchen interviews, and, most importantly, unveiling the secrets behind their culinary masterpieces.

Every chef has their own unique secrets and recipes, yet they all share a common thread: a deep respect for the cultural heritage that has elevated pasta and noodles to one of the most beloved ingredients worldwide. Despite its apparent simplicity, this versatile food can be transformed into a true delicacy.

Are you ready to uncover the wonders of this fascinating world? Tune in to Netflix starting this Wednesday and let “Chef’s Table: Noodles” take you on an unforgettable culinary journey.

Where to Watch “Chef’s Table: Noodles”

Netflix

The post “Chef’s Table: Noodles” Documentary Series on Netflix: A Gastronomic Journey for Pasta Enthusiasts. appeared first on Martin Cid Magazine.

The Return of “Unsolved Mysteries” Volume 5: True Crime, UFOs, and Ghosts on Netflix

“Unsolved Mysteries” is a true crime and mystery series on Netflix.

If you haven’t yet discovered the captivating allure of “Unsolved Mysteries,” now is the perfect moment to delve into this engrossing series. Seamlessly blending true crime narratives with paranormal phenomena, this series offers a unique viewing experience for those who revel in the enigmatic and the unexplained. “Unsolved Mysteries” Volume 5 has made its highly anticipated return to Netflix, and it promises to deliver another round of enthralling content that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

This latest installment comprises four episodes, each brimming with mystery and intrigue. Viewers can expect to encounter a baffling murder set in a Cleveland park, a medium who purports to communicate with the beyond, unsettling cases of mutilation, and an intriguing UFO incident. Clearly, “Unsolved Mysteries” caters to a wide array of interests, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

About the Series

“Unsolved Mysteries” is a series that has expertly identified its target audience, understanding precisely what they seek. The creators have mastered the art of selecting compelling stories and presenting them with a veneer of authenticity that keeps viewers hooked. The series is characterized by its pervasive sense of uncertainty, its unresolved mysteries, and its relentless stream of unanswered questions. Whether or not one believes in ghosts, the series is presented in a manner that is both credible and highly entertaining.

From a production standpoint, “Unsolved Mysteries” is a top-tier series. The reenactments are crafted with a cinematic quality that often rivals feature films. The series boasts exceptional cinematography and meticulously executed editing. The sound design is equally impressive, enhancing the overall viewing experience with a cinematic flair.

It is undeniable that such series tend to polarize audiences. There are fervent fans who consume them avidly, akin to devouring a bowl of popcorn, and there are critics who dismiss them as mere sensationalist television, unworthy of being classified as true documentaries. Perhaps both camps have valid points. Even the most technically proficient production cannot entirely escape a certain inclination towards sensationalism, especially when dealing with gruesome murders and attention-grabbing UFO cases.

Nevertheless, it is irrefutable that “Unsolved Mysteries” is a well-crafted and thoroughly entertaining series. It is certain to once again captivate the fans of documentaries centered on unexplained mysteries. If you were a devotee of “The X-Files,” then “Unsolved Mysteries” is likely to be right up your alley.

Welcome back to the world of unsolved mysteries, now streaming on Netflix.

Where to Watch “Unsolved Mysteries”

Netflix

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Alexander Gray Associates at Frieze London: A Diverse Exploration of Materiality and Representation

At Frieze London, Alexander Gray Associates proudly showcases an array of recent and historical works by a distinguished roster of artists: Chloë Bass, Frank Bowling, Ricardo Brey, Bethany Collins, Melvin Edwards, Harmony Hammond, Kang Seung Lee, Steve Locke, Carrie Moyer, Ronny Quevedo, Joan Semmel, Hugh Steers, and Ruby Sky Stiler. These artists, though varied in their individual practices, are united by their innovative approaches to materiality and representation, pushing the boundaries of both form and concept.

For over fifty years, Frank Bowling has intricately woven personal and collective memory into his abstract works to reflect on Black identity. By continually refining his use of color, Bowling’s paintings, such as Sunrise (2020), conjure the luminous qualities of eighteenth-century English landscape painting while evoking the shimmering haze of the waterways in his native Guyana. Melvin Edwards, a longtime friend of Bowling, creates abstract sculptures that combine expressivity with modernist forms. In works like Combination (2005)—part of his ongoing series, Lynch Fragments—Edwards uses steel to reference both physical labor and racial violence, reconfiguring narratives surrounding the African Diaspora.

Joan SemmelSeated, 2024Oil on canvas40 x 40 in (101.6 x 101.6 cm)41 5/8 x 41 7/8 x 2 1/4 in framed (105.7 x 106.4 x 5.7 cm framed)

Chloë Bass, on the other hand, explores the potential of language to document the everyday. Her piece January 6th – 7th, 2020 (2024) comprises a pair of lamps inscribed with the artist’s recounting of those days’ events. The subtle shifts in the lamps’ intensity symbolize the passage of time, encouraging new ways of “seeing,” according to Bass. Contrastingly, Bethany Collins utilizes the material properties of paper to encode broader histories. In Old Ship XII (2023), Collins molds paper into a monument that pays homage to Black American history.

Both Joan Semmel and Carrie Moyer take bold approaches to color and form. Since the 1970s, Semmel has intervened in the art historical tradition of the nude. Her canvases, such as Seated (2024), celebrate color and flesh, taking her own body as the subject. Moyer’s playful compositions similarly emphasize sensory experiences. In Icy Hot (2024), she crafts an immersive, tactile surface evocative of the natural world. Ricardo Brey, too, commits to color, as demonstrated in his ongoing series of blue works, including Filtering of Lights (2023). His pieces intertwine the history of the monochrome with landscape.

Equally committed to the interplay of form and content, Harmony Hammond and Ruby Sky Stiler reinterpret painting through queer and feminist lenses. Hammond’s near-monochromatic paintings, like Lace II (2013), feature heavily worked, skin-like surfaces. By queering the modernist monochrome, these canvases ground abstraction in the body. Similarly, Stiler’s relief paintings challenge art historical archetypes. Works like Seated Blue Figure (with turquoise and red outline) (2024) juxtapose collaged female figures against fractal-like backgrounds, confronting the dichotomy between “woman as subject of painting versus creator of image,” as Stiler puts it. Ronny Quevedo’s multilayered drawings, such as el centro folklórico (2024), fragment and reassemble the abstract motifs of Pre-Columbian textiles. For Quevedo, collapsing the distinctions between past and present “gives life to an ancestry of abstraction and transformational figures.”

In contrast, Steve Locke’s cruisers paintings, including cruisers (lunch counter) (2024), use figuration to capture intimate moments between men. These compositions serve as meditations on the gaze, mapping the politics—and dangers—of desire. Hugh Steers’s Shadow Box (1991) also addresses the perils of desire, illustrating the unsettling psychic realities of queer men navigating a world indelibly altered by the AIDS epidemic. Finally, Kang Seung Lee recontextualizes visual materials tied to queer history and collective memory. In Untitled (Elysian 2) (2024), Lee reproduces seed pods and dried flowers collected from Elysian Park, a well-known queer cruising site in LA. By memorializing this flora, Lee states he “[creates] this space for bodily experience … through artistic labor that cannot easily be put into words.”

By uniting these diverse approaches to abstraction and representation, Alexander Gray Associates’ presentation at Frieze London highlights the expansive methods employed by these thirteen artists. Together, their works emphasize Lee’s belief that by “connecting different geographies and experiences … there is a possibility of creating new knowledge in [the] process.” The gallery’s selection underscores the dynamic and multifaceted nature of contemporary art, showcasing how these artists redefine the landscapes of materiality and representation.

Carrie MoyerIcy Hot, 2024Acrylic, fiber paste, magnum, and glitter on canvas72 x 50 in (182.9 x 127 cm)

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K11 Art Foundation announces London debut of K11 Salon during Frieze Week

Following its successful launch at Frieze Seoul, K11 Salon will return on Monday 7 October, with an event at Serpentine London, during Frieze Week. Presented by the K11 Art Foundation and Serpentine the panel discussion entitled Cosmics and Metabolism will further establish K11 Salon as a cutting-edge platform for exploring the future of digital and generative art.

Cosmics and Metabolism will examine the interconnected cycles of creation, decay, and renewal in both cosmic and earthly systems. Hans Ulrich Obrist (Artistic Director, Serpentine) and Xin Liu (artist-engineer and winner of the inaugural K11 Artist Prize 2024) will explore the parallels between art, architecture, and biological processes, highlighting how all systems exist in a constant state of flux. Liu’s work, which engages with themes of destruction and regeneration, resonates with the 1960s Metabolism architectural movement, which envisioned cities as organic, evolving entities. The conversation will also touch on Obrist’s 2011 publication with Rem Koolhaas, Project Japan: Metabolism Talks…, which documents the Japanese Metabolists’ vision of self-renewing urban environments.

K11 Salon brings together emerging and established voices to discuss the evolving relationship between art, culture and technology. The initiative launched with a two-day programme at Frieze Seoul in September 2024, featuring thought-provoking discussions with speakers such as Michael Govan (Director of LACMA), Mark Rappolt (Editor-in-Chief, ArtReview), and artists a’strict, Cheng Ran, and Philip Colbert.

As it expands into Europe at a pivotal moment for the art world – with further iterations set to be announced in the coming weeks – this flagship event reflects K11 Salon’s ambition to become a global talks programme, fostering deeper engagement with the digital and generative future of the creative industries.

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Open Eye Gallery presents their annual online festive exhibition On a Small Scale

Open Eye Gallery presents their much-anticipated showcase of perfectly post-able paintings in their  annual festive exhibition On a Small Scale, with all works exclusively available for purchase online. 

Throughout its 25-year history, this exhibition has become a celebrated feature of the Edinburgh art  calendar. Each year the Open Eye Gallery invites selected artists to submit unframed works in any  medium, that are either relative to another, larger body of work, or a one-off unique insight into  the artist’s practice. The only restriction being to limit dimensions to 15 x 21 cm, the classic  ‘postcard’ size. 

With around 200 invited artists, and approximately 500 works to choose from, this exhibition places  some of the most established names in Scottish art alongside artists at the beginning of their  careers, celebrating the scope of contemporary art in Scotland. 

With prices ranging from £200 to £1,000, this exhibition offers the perfect opportunity for anyone  looking to start or expand a collection of quality Scottish contemporary art. 

Open Eye Gallery comments, A much-loved highlight of the Edinburgh art calendar, this is an  exhibition we very much look forward to showcasing annually. After the decision to move the full  exhibition online 4 years ago, On a Small Scale has grown in popularity, not just at home, but internationally, allowing our clients the possibility to purchase and have these little gems shipped to  them in time for Christmas. 

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