MGM+ has decided to revive the epic story of The Magnificent Seven, producing a new version in the format of an eight-episode miniseries. This work, based on the classic film from 1960 and, in turn, on Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai (1954), aims to offer a deeper and more nuanced narrative than previous adaptations. Leading the project will be Tim Kring, known for his work on the series Heroes, who will serve as showrunner. A western that has already been done many, many times The remake promises a different approach by focusing on the personal background of each […]
MGM+ has decided to revive the epic story of The Magnificent Seven, producing a new version in the format of an eight-episode miniseries. This work, based on the classic film from 1960 and, in turn, on Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai (1954), aims to offer a deeper and more nuanced narrative than previous adaptations. Leading the project will be Tim Kring, known for his work on the series Heroes, who will serve as showrunner.
A western that has been made many, many times
The remake promises a different approach by focusing on the personal background of each of the seven mercenaries. The story will follow a group of experts hired by a village of Quakers, harassed by a ruthless landowner. As the mercenaries integrate into the community, they will have to face the complex morality of violence, questioning whether it is justifiable to use it to protect a pacifist faith community.
Although the basic argument will remain true to previous versions, the characteristic development proposed by this series could provide greater depth to the characters. MGM+ had already explored the realm of remakes before, with the recent adaptation of Robin Hood, which suggests that the company is willing to take risks in the reinterpretation of classics, even when previous versions are relatively recent, such as the film directed by Antoine Fuqua in 2016, which featured a renowned cast including Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt.
This series adds to the rich history of The Magnificent Seven, which has left its mark on cinema with several films and a television series that aired in the 1990s. The expectation is that this new approach will not only revitalize this well-known narrative but also bring a new layer of complexity, inviting viewers to reflect on the ethical decisions of its characters.
For many years it seemed that the western was the genre of our parents, if not our grandparents. A genre that was an American thing, that our elders liked out of pure nostalgia, and that didn’t have much to contribute to the present. Of course, we were wrong. There are excellent westerns out there and in fact, it is still possible to make good westerns. There is nothing in the setting that is unrepeatable today and, due to its characteristics, it fits perfectly with our chaotic present of wild capitalism. Kurt Sutter, creator of Sons of Anarchy, knows this well, who, with […]
For many years it seemed that the western was the genre of our parents, if not our grandparents. A genre that was an American thing, liked by our elders out of pure nostalgia, and that didn’t have much to contribute to the present. Of course, we were wrong. There are excellent westerns out there and in fact, it is still possible to make good westerns. There is nothing in the setting that is irreproducible today and, due to its characteristics, it fits perfectly with our chaotic present of wild capitalism.
Kurt Sutter, creator of Sons of Anarchy, knows this well, who, with his new series, The Abandoned, wants to show us that the western can be used to tell stories that resonate with today’s audience. And, moreover, to do it on the favorite platform of many: Netflix.
A western driven by two exceptional actresses
The Abandoned is set in 1850 in Oregon. There, a group of people live peacefully without any kind of conflict.But that doesn’t make for any kind of story, and that’s why something happens: a corporation arrives seeking to take over their lands. This causes the locals to organize under the auspices of two families dominated by two powerful matriarchs who will define the events from then on for the control of their town. By fair means or foul.
Closely following the structure and tone of Sons of Anarchy, Sutter’s intention is to create a western that exploits all the clichés of its stories. The violence, family ties, individuals and their infrafamilial groups against society, and the clash between capitalism and community. In this case, it is led by two well-known actresses: Gillian Anderson and Lena Headey.
In fact, all the critics who have been able to see the series already highlight that they are the true driving force of the series. These two actresses with more than accomplished careers prove to be the true heart and soul of The Abandoned, carrying the narrative of the series on their shoulders in a way that only two absolutely exceptional actresses like them could do. Making the series an absolute must-watch for any fan of these two actresses, that is, anyone who knows them.
It is no less true that the general opinion among critics is that the series is, at the very least, uneven. Even if the lead actresses are absolutely superb and the narrative works, its violence and schematic nature ultimately take a toll. Resulting too artificial for some critics.
One of the reasons cited that may have caused this is that its creator, Stutter, left the series before the completion of its first season. Although his reasons have not been clarified, whether it was due to creative differences with Netflix or because he wants to focus on his directorial debut in film with This Beast, still without a release date, everyone acknowledges that what is clearly missing here is what is very evident in his great works, such as Sons of Anarchy or The Shield: a certain moral ambiguity in his characters and greater depth in the events of the plot.
Does that mean that Los abandonados isn’t worth it? Not at all. As we have pointed out, its leading actresses make any series they appear in essential, and even if it’s just an echo, Stutter is always a mark of quality. It may have been able to be more, but it is also true that many critics believe it is a good series despite everything. Even if not at the level of what they expect from the creator of Sons of Anarchy.
If you’re curious to see the series, it’s already available on Netflix. There are ten episodes, a second season has not been confirmed, and without its showrunner, it seems doubtful that there will be one. So it seems like a perfect plan to enjoy a series that, even if it’s not the best that its creator has offered us, is a more than worthy curiosity in the current streaming catalog.
The western genre, traditionally narrated from male perspectives, has faced significant challenges in its evolution, limiting diversity in stories and characters. However, independent cinema has begun to offer new narratives, allowing works like First Cow to rethink the conventions of the genre. This film, directed by Kelly Reichardt, has been recognized as one of the best in recent times, bringing a unique and authorial approach to the narrative of the western. An excellent example of slow cinema, set in the American Northwest during the 19th century, First Cow tells the story of a cook and a fugitive of origin […]
The western genre, traditionally narrated from male perspectives, has faced significant challenges in its evolution, limiting diversity in stories and characters. However, independent cinema has begun to offer new narratives, allowing works like First Cow to rethink the conventions of the genre. This film, directed by Kelly Reichardt, has been recognized as one of the best in recent times, bringing a unique and authorial approach to the narrative of the western.
An excellent example of slow cinema
Set in the American Northwest during the 19th century, First Cow tells the story of a cook and an Asian fugitive who seek to thrive through an unconventional business centered around cooking. Throughout the story, Reichardt explores unusual masculinities for the genre, offering a new dimension that challenges traditional stereotypes of the western.
The film not only stands out for its innovative storytelling but also for its visual style, which falls within the ‘slow cinema’ school. This approach allows viewers to contemplate subtle details and experience the story at a leisurely pace, thus challenging the expectations of an audience more eager for rapid narrative development. In this sense, the narrative becomes a means to explore the complexities of rural life in the United States, areas that are often absent in typical cinematic narratives.
First Cow reinforces the possibilities of independent cinema, offering a critique of capitalism in an ingenious way, where the outsider is embodied by a cow and the main threat is presented in the context of a latent social conflict. Through a careful and eloquent representation of human realities, Reichardt’s work stands as a testament to the narrative richness that cinema can offer beyond the established conventions of the past.
Armie Hammer is about to return to the big screen with the release of Frontier Crucible, a western based on the novel Desert Stake-Out by Harry Whittington. The film, scheduled for release in the United States in just over a month, is about a former soldier who is forced to team up with three outlaws, as well as a woman and her husband, to survive in 1870s Arizona. A western tinged with virulent accusations This project marks Hammer’s third pending release since he was accused of sexual harassment and rape in 2021, […]
Armie Hammer is about to return to the big screen with the release of Frontier Crucible, a western based on the novel Desert Stake-Out by Harry Whittington. The film, scheduled for release in the United States in just over a month, is about a former soldier who is forced to team up with three outlaws, as well as a woman and her husband, to survive in 1870s Arizona.
A western tinged with virulent accusations
This project marks Hammer’s third pending release since he was accused of sexual harassment and rape in 2021, which resulted in his removal from several productions, some even in post-production. The controversy surrounding the actor has sparked a debate about cancel culture and its implications in the entertainment industry.
Frontier Crucible will be directed by Travis Mills and will feature a prominent cast that includes well-known actors such as William H. Macy and Patrick Jane. The production is led by Dallas Sonnier, who defends the casting of Hammer, arguing that he has built his career on producing independent male-driven films and believes that the actor deserves another chance in the industry.
Despite the growing anticipation surrounding the movie, a release date for Spain has not yet been confirmed, leaving fans wondering if Frontier Crucible will end up on a streaming platform. In the meantime, interested parties are encouraged to watch the movie’s trailer for a first look at this ambitious production.
Amid the controversy and Hammer’s return, the film industry continues to grapple with the search for justice and the reintegration of artists who have faced serious accusations.
Kathryn Bigelow, a renowned American director, has made a mark in the thriller genre thanks to her distinctive style that fuses atmosphere and tension. Although her work has been praised for creating provocative entertainment, she has also faced criticism for the alleged lack of substance in her stories. However, her ability to address violence and power dynamics in her plots has earned her a prominent place in contemporary filmography. One of the most outrageous vampire movies in history One of her most emblematic works, Near Dark (1987), has been considered […]
Kathryn Bigelow, a renowned American director, has made a mark in the thriller genre thanks to her distinctive style that blends atmosphere and tension. Although her work has been praised for creating provocative entertainment, she has also faced criticism for the alleged lack of substance in her stories. However, her ability to tackle violence and power dynamics in her plots has earned her a prominent place in contemporary filmography.
One of the most badass vampire movies in history
One of her most emblematic works, Near Dark (1987), has been considered a cult film that established Bigelow as a relevant filmmaker. In this film, the American director blends genres such as horror, western, and neo-noir, constructing an intriguing narrative in a rural setting of the United States. The plot revolves around a young cowboy who, drawn to an outsider, becomes a vampire, leading to an exploration of dangerous communities and complex family relationships.
Bigelow, along with her co-writer Eric Red, uses classic elements of the vampiric canon to weave a story that is set within a hierarchical social system, with dynamics of ‘found family’ that evoke her work in portraying bodies of power and security forces. Moreover, her successful collaboration with the soundtrack of Tangerine Dream gives the film an electrifying atmosphere that revitalizes horror through the prism of 80s neo-noir.
Currently, Night Travelers is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Filmin, making it an ideal option for genre enthusiasts during the Halloween season. Its relevance endures despite the passage of time, highlighting Bigelow’s ability to tell captivating stories that transcend their era.
Cinema has shown throughout its history a plethora of villains that have left an indelible mark on the collective memory, and among them stands out Sentenza, the character played by Lee Van Cleef in the classic The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Released in Spain on August 7, 1968, this film directed by Sergio Leone eventually became a benchmark of the western genre, despite an initial critical reception that was not entirely favorable. An absolutely despicable villain, Sentenza, also known as “the Bad,” is a relentless villain whose coldness […]
Cinema has showcased a plethora of villains throughout its history, leaving an indelible mark on collective memory, and among them stands out Sentenza, the character played by Lee Van Cleef in the classic The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Released in Spain on August 7, 1968, this film directed by Sergio Leone eventually became a benchmark of the western genre, despite an initial critical reception that was not entirely favorable.
An absolutely despicable villain
Sentenza, also known as “the Bad,” is an unrelenting villain whose coldness and cruelty define much of his character. His relentless and meticulous search for a Confederate treasure makes him a memorable antagonist who faces Blondie, the “Good,” and Tuco, the “Ugly.” Van Cleef’s performance is noteworthy, not only for his piercing gaze and unmistakable “eagle nose,” but also for the construction of a character who lives without compassion or remorse.
Throughout his career, Van Cleef had to tackle complex personal issues, including a significant alcohol addiction. However, Leone’s vision allowed him to become a relevant actor, elevating his career and improving his personal life through stable partnerships that continued in Italy. The collaboration between the two was crucial, as it not only led him to obtain larger roles but, strategically, Leone involved his family to help manage his addictions during filming.
Over time, Sentenza has been relegated to the category of cultural icon. His legacy extends beyond the film itself, solidifying him as one of the most remembered and emblematic villains in the history of cinema. Through his unparalleled cruelty and meticulous character, Van Cleef left a mark that still resonates in the film industry and in the minds of fans.
Clint Eastwood, at 95 years old, continues to leave his mark on the world of cinema with his latest work as a director, Jury No. 2, scheduled to be released at the end of 2024. For more than six decades, Eastwood has been considered the ultimate gunslinger and a pioneer among modern action stars. His rise to stardom began in the 1960s with the iconic Dollar Trilogy directed by Sergio Leone, which includes unforgettable films like A Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More, and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. A movie that is not understood that […]
Clint Eastwood, at 95 years old, continues to leave his mark on the film world with his latest work as director, Jury No. 2, scheduled to premiere at the end of 2024. For more than six decades, Eastwood has been considered the ultimate gunslinger and a pioneer among modern action stars. His rise to stardom began in the 60s with the iconic Dollar Trilogy directed by Sergio Leone, which includes unforgettable films such as A Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More, and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.
A movie that is hard to understand why it was rejected
Despite his success, Eastwood made difficult decisions that have marked his career. Shortly after his collaboration with Leone, the director offered him an important role in another western. However, the actor decided to turn down the offer, fearing being typecast in a single type of role. This refusal affected his relationship with Leone, which was only reconciled shortly before the director’s death in 1989.
Ironies of fate, the movie in which Eastwood chose not to participate, Once Upon a Time in the West, has established itself as one of the best in the western genre. According to SensaCine readers, it ranks sixth on their list of the best westerns of all time, with a rating of 4.2 out of 5. The story, which features a mysterious character known as Harmonica, was ultimately played by Charles Bronson, who also became an icon of the genre.
This year marks the 55th anniversary of “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” a film that, although without Eastwood’s participation, has remained a classic. His legacy as an actor and director lives on, challenging the conventions of cinema and paving new paths for future generations of filmmakers.
Stephen King, the famous author known for his horror works, has once again influenced the film and television industry by recommending the movie Bone Tomahawk, directed by S. Craig Zahler and released in 2015. Despite being a low-budget production, costing 1.8 million dollars, the film has received critical acclaim for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of western and horror. A perfect combination of western and horror, Bone Tomahawk tells the tense story of a small town in the West that sees its peaceful existence altered […]
Stephen King, the renowned author known for his horror works, has once again influenced the film and television industry by recommending the movie Bone Tomahawk, directed by S. Craig Zahler and released in 2015. Despite being a low-budget production, costing 1.8 million dollars, the film has received critical acclaim for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of western and horror.
A perfect combination of western and horror
Bone Tomahawk tells the tense story of a small town in the West that sees its peaceful existence disrupted by the arrival of a stranger. The plot thickens with the disappearance of the sheriff’s deputy, the doctor’s daughter, and the stranger himself, who are believed to have been captured by a tribe of Native Americans known for their cannibalistic practices. The main cast features well-known actors such as Kurt Russell, Patrick Wilson, and Matthew Fox.
Despite its cinematic quality, Bone Tomahawk did not achieve commercial success in theaters, but it stood out in the home market, gaining cult status among film enthusiasts. Stephen King, who seems to have taken a while to discover the film, was very impressed with Zahler’s work and recommended it to his followers on Twitter, although his original tweet was deleted after he left the social network. However, his message continues to resonate, turning the recommendation into a topic of interest for his fans.
John Wayne, recognized as one of the greatest stars of western cinema, has left a deep mark on the self-image of the United States. His film The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance stands out as a powerful exception within his filmography, distancing itself from the simplistic conservatism that characterized many of his works. This late western, directed by John Ford, not only captures the visual essence of the genre but also addresses complex themes that resonate with the concerns of American society. A film that transcends what you might expect from a western The narrative revolves around the […]
John Wayne, recognized as one of the greatest stars of western cinema, has left a deep mark on the self-image of the United States. His film The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance stands out as a powerful exception within his filmography, distancing itself from the simplistic conservatism that characterized many of his works. This late western, directed by John Ford, not only captures the visual essence of the genre but also addresses complex themes that resonate with the concerns of American society.
A movie that transcends what you can expect from a western
The narrative revolves around Senator Stoddard, played by James Stewart, who begins to reminisce about his days in the chaotic town of Shinbone. His friend, the tough rancher Tom, brought to life by John Wayne, and Stoddard share a special connection: both have been in love with the same woman, Hallie, portrayed by Vera Miles. Together they must unite to confront the feared outlaw Liberty Valance, embodied by Lee Marvin. This blend of drama and tension among the characters offers a nuanced look at human relationships and moral dilemmas.
Ford invites reflection by presenting a critique of the simplified perception of violence and the figure of the gunslinger. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance not only challenges the glorification of violence but also highlights the complexity of interpersonal relationships, questioning the truth in an environment where sensationalist narratives often prevail. Through picturesque cinematography and a melancholic narrative, the film establishes a dialogue between everyday life and the brutality faced by its characters, making it a masterpiece of cinema that remains relevant today.
Viewers can enjoy this remarkable film on the Movistar Plus+ platform, where one of the most impactful stories of classic cinema is brought to life.
The series 1923, a prequel to Yellowstone, has made history not only for its narrative but also for its remarkable production budget. With an approximate cost of 22 million dollars per episode, 1923 far exceeds the 15 million dollars per episode spent on the eighth season of Game of Thrones, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. This rise in costs is surprising, given that 1923 is a western that relies less on computer-generated visual effects. Yellowstone aims to be the most expensive television franchise in history Since its premiere in 2022, […]
The series 1923, a prequel to Yellowstone, has made history not only for its narrative but also for its remarkable production budget. With an approximate cost of 22 million dollars per episode, 1923 far exceeds the 15 million dollars per episode spent on the eighth season of Game of Thrones, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. This rise in costs is surprising, given that 1923 is a western that relies less on computer-generated visual effects.
Yellowstone aims to be the most expensive television franchise in history
Since its premiere in 2022, the popularity of Yellowstone and its derivatives has led Paramount to invest nearly 500 million dollars a year in this franchise. However, this amount is expected to decrease in 2025, given the conclusion of 1923 and Yellowstone. Despite these changes, it cannot be denied that Yellowstone has revolutionized the western genre in the last decade.
Taylor Sheridan, the creator behind the series, has established himself as the main architect of content for Paramount, or SkyShowtime in Spain, developing new narratives that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. In 2024, new seasons of Mayor of Kingstown, Tulsa King, Lioness, and the latest installment of Yellowstone will be released, all under his creative direction.
In addition, Sheridan will be in charge of future promising releases such as Landman, starring Billy Bob Thornton and Demi Moore, which is scheduled to premiere in November 2025. Another series on the way is The Madison, which features a star-studded cast, including Michelle Pfeiffer and Patrick J. Adams. For fans of this universe, all episodes are available on SkyShowtime, ensuring that the franchise continues to capture the audience’s attention.
