Netflix's new Christmas movie, 'Hot Frosty,' is a satirical take on holiday films, featuring a snowman who comes to life to seduce a widow, drawing parallels to Jesus and critiquing societal issues like police overreach. The film blends traditional holiday themes with unexpected elements of eroticism and social commentary, raising questions about its deeper messages and the potential for leftist undertones in Netflix's holiday offerings.
Netflix's 'Squid Game' returns with a darker and more relevant second season, exploring themes of division and societal conflict. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk discusses the new season's focus on taking sides, inspired by global sectarianism and political polarization. The series, which became Netflix's most popular title, continues to delve into economic inequality and human conscience, with returning characters and new cast members. Season two is set to premiere around the 2024 U.S. presidential election, adding to its timely social commentary.
The year 2023 marked a significant period for film and television, reflecting the political and cultural turmoil of the times. Amidst ongoing wars, the COVID-19 pandemic, and rising reactionary forces, the entertainment industry faced its own battles with strikes by artists challenging the economic hardships and corporate dominance in the sector. Despite union efforts to suppress these movements, the struggle highlighted the need for a more socially conscious and critical artistic expression. Films and TV shows like "Oppenheimer," "El Conde," and "Succession" stood out for engaging with these issues, while the industry also faced criticism for its silence on the Gaza conflict and the celebration of less impactful works like "Maestro." The year was also characterized by a decline in employment within the industry and a potential reduction in content production, signaling a challenging future for film and television.
