Cultural Tapestry: Exploring World Traditions and Trends
Blending Traditions and Modernity
Delve into the fascinating world where timeless traditions intersect with contemporary innovations in Milan Weekly Magazine's Culture section. Here, we explore the rich tapestry of global cultures, showcasing how ancient customs are being reinvented in the modern era. From the revival of classical arts in new-age forms to the fusion of traditional cuisines with modern gastronomy, our stories capture the essence of cultural evolution. Join us in celebrating the diverse ways in which societies around the world are bridging the gap between their historic roots and the fast-paced changes of today, creating a dynamic, ever-evolving cultural narrative.
Reflecting Cultural Identities
Raffaele Tommaso, the dedicated Culture Section Editor, is deeply passionate about fitness, foreign languages, and music. These multidisciplinary interests have inspired him to explore and share the diverse ways in which lifestyle can be expressed—whether as modes of living in a city or as reflections of one’s personality and identity. Through this platform, he is committed to highlighting for readers the trends and nuances of the extraordinary journey that life offers to all.
Together with Raffaele Tommaso, Alptekin Top—holder of a degree in Political Science, International Relations, and Development Cooperation—is our other esteemed culture editor. His passions range from international affairs to cinema, from travel to music. In this section, he will guide us through these cultural and life topics, taking us on a journey to discover remarkable individuals or explore the nuances of films that may or may not have been recognized by critics.
THE ROOM NEXT DOOR: ALMODÓVAR’S AMBITIOUS, YET UNEVEN ENGLISH-LANGUAGE DEBUT
Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door (La habitación de al lado) marks his ambitious English-language debut but falters in delivering the emotional depth and narrative strength of his earlier works. While Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore shine with extraordinary performances, the film’s exploration of euthanasia feels restrained, with artificial dialogue and a lack of genuine reflection. A poignant quote from James Joyce—“... the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling, like the descent of their last end, upon all the living and the dead”—highlights the fleeting beauty of the film but also its inability to fully connect with its profound themes.
FILM REVIEW: THE SUBSTANCE
Coralie Fargeat's The Substance ambitiously critiques society’s obsession with youth and beauty but falters under the weight of its 141-minute runtime. While Demi Moore delivers a poignant performance as a fading actress turned to desperate measures, the film’s heavy-handed satire and caricatural elements dilute its impact. Despite moments of brilliance, it feels like a missed opportunity, with its thought-provoking themes undermined by uneven pacing and lack of narrative depth
Movie Review: Wicked – A Magical Journey to Oz
Wicked dazzles with breathtaking visuals, unforgettable music, and stunning performances. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo make a captivating duo, perfectly embodying Glinda and Elphaba. The film transports audiences to the magical world of Oz, delivering both charm and emotional depth. A magical experience worth experiencing.
ANGELINA JOLIE HONORED AT TORINO FILM FESTIVAL FOR “WITHOUT BLOOD”
Angelina Jolie was honored at the 42nd Torino Film Festival for her film Without Blood, which she wrote, directed, and produced. The movie, adapted from Alessandro Baricco's novel, explores themes of trauma and reconciliation, featuring Salma Hayek Pinault and Demián Bichir in lead roles. Jolie’s appearance and the film's critical reception highlighted the festival’s emphasis on impactful storytelling and international talent.
JUROR NO. 2 (2024) – A THOUGHTFUL COURTROOM DRAMA ON JUSTICE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Juror No. 2 delivers a compelling and introspective courtroom drama that examines complex themes of justice, accountability, and moral responsibility. Nicholas Hoult’s nuanced performance as a juror grappling with his possible role in a crime elevates the film, making it an emotionally charged exploration of the human condition. Clint Eastwood’s direction crafts a quietly gripping narrative that stands out for its thoughtfulness and depth, offering a refreshing change from today’s blockbuster-driven cinematic landscape.
ROME INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL XXIII EDIZIONE RIFF AWARDS
Con l’annuncio dei vincitori termina la XXIII edizione del RIFF – Rome Independent Film Festival diretto da Fabrizio Ferrari che, al Nuovo Cinema Aquila di Roma, dal 13 al 22 novembre, ha visto programmate oltre 80 opere molte delle quali in anteprima italiana, europea o mondiale e suddivise in 13 sezioni nazionali e internazionali: opere prime e seconde di lungometraggio, documentari, cortometraggi, film sperimentali e animazioni, soggetti e sceneggiature contraddistinte per l’originalità e l’innovazione dei contenuti e delle tecniche utilizzate.
‘Gladiator 2’ Review: A Spectacle Worth Watching, Though It Falls Short of Its Predecessor
Gladiator 2 delivers epic battles, stunning visuals, and a timeless tale of survival and destiny. Denzel Washington’s commanding performance and Ridley Scott’s masterful direction elevate the sequel, though it falls short of the emotional depth of the original. While it may not reach the heights of its predecessor, it remains a captivating and thoroughly enjoyable return to Ancient Rome. Fans and newcomers alike will find plenty to admire in this grand spectacle.
MISS WOMAN INTERNATIONAL 2025 SCEGLIE LE ISOLE CANARIE PER LA PROSSIMA EDIZIONE MONDIALE
Guido walter mariani stravolgerà ancora una volta lo scenario beauty e dei beauty contest, creando una finale paradisiaca in una delle isole più ambite al mondo Tenerife, citta premiata per il miglior clima al mondo vantando la stagione estiva per 365 giorni all’anno ed e proprio da qui che Miss Woman International by GWM HOLDING che ha deciso di aprire i nuovi uffici per il proprio team a Tenerife, in modo tale da gestire in maniera diretta tutta la parte organizzativa per il 2025.
MAXXXINE
"MaXXXine," the final installment in Ti West's trilogy, delivers an engaging yet flawed exploration of fame's dark side in 1980s Hollywood. Mia Goth's standout performance brings intensity to a story steeped in ambition and moral compromise. While the film's suspense is gripping, its overt violence and predictable conclusion prevent it from fully realizing its potential as a psychological thriller.
BLINK TWICE
"Blink Twice," directed by Zoë Kravitz, keeps the audience fully engaged with its fast-paced and dynamic storytelling. The film excels in showcasing the strength of female cooperation, featuring a talented cast with standout performances, particularly from Geena Davis. However, the rushed ending and overuse of shock elements slightly detract from the film's overall depth and impact.
CELEBRATING LATIN CULTURE: HIGHLIGHTS FROM LALIFF IN LOS ANGELES
Milan Weekly attended LALIFF, the Latino International Film Festival, in Los Angeles, in collaboration with Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Founded in 1997 by Edward James Olmos and his co-founders, LALIFF has been instrumental in discovering emerging Latino talent, premiering first films by directors like Guillermo del Toro and actors like Gina Rodriguez. The festival features a rich program of screenings and notable guests, with a lively atmosphere that celebrates Latin culture throughout the city.
LAWINEFEST CELEBRATE ALL THINGS WINE ALONG THE LONG BEACH WATERFRONT JUNE 1-2
Discover the best wine tasting event at LAWineFest 2024 on June 1-2 at Harry Bridges Memorial Park, Long Beach. Enjoy award-winning wines, craft brews, live music, and more.
JUNKYARD DOG (CHIEN DE LA CASSE) — A QUIETLY FEROCIOUS LOOK AT MASCULINITY
Junkyard Dog (Chien de la Casse) is a quietly intense exploration of male friendship and the complexities of masculinity set against the backdrop of rural France. The film shines with strong performances, particularly from Raphaël Quenard as the charismatic yet volatile Mirales, but struggles with pacing and underdeveloped character dynamics. While it doesn’t fully realize its thematic potential, Junkyard Dog offers a thought-provoking experience that lingers in its subdued atmosphere.
PITTI IMMAGINE: RAIMONDO ROSSI AKA RAY MORRISON NAMED AMONG TOP TEN MEN'S STYLE ICONS
At the prestigious Pitti Immagine, a biannual gathering of the fashion elite in Florence, Raimondo Rossi, also known as Ray Morrison, has been named as one of the top ten style icons in men's fashion.
CLAMOROSO ERRORE DELL’ARBITRO A MONTE CARLO ATP MASTER CHE REGALA LA VITTORIA A TSITSIPAS.
Nel tennis questione di attimi. È questione di piccole sfumature che vanno a incidere su delicati equilibri, quando si incontrano dei campioni agli ATP Masters. Questa volta, la partita si è giocata in un clamoroso errore del giudice arbitro. Quando Sinner si apprestava agevolmente a vincere l’ultimo set e stava prendendo il largo per quattro giochi a uno, grazie ad un doppio fallo di Tsitsipas nella semifinale del torneo di Montecarlo 2024, sorprendentemente l’arbitro chiama buona la seconda palla (chiaramente fuori), e anziché dare di Game a Sinner, rimette in gioco il greco.
MISS WOMAN INTERNATIONAL 2024 E’ SYDNEY – AUSTRALIA
Guido Walter Mariani riesce ad incantare ed unire il Mediterraneo con l’edizione internazionale di Miss Woman Beauty Contest. Una settimana all’insegna delle donne e della bellezza intitolata “The Woman Week”, 35 concorrenti sono salpate da Roma ed hanno continuato il proprio tour per Palermo, Malta, Barcellona, Marsiglia, Genova con ritorno a Roma, organizzando attività in ogni città in cui si è attraccato, tra shooting, passeggiate, interviste ed altro. MSC Crociere è stata determinante per la realizzazione di un evento così importante e caratteristico.
51° ANNIE AWARDS 2024: 'ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE' PREDOMINA CON 7 VITTORIE, TUTTI I DETTAGLI
Al 51° ANNIE AWARDS, 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' ha guidato la serata con sette premi, inclusa la vittoria come Miglior Film, segnalandosi come forte contendente agli Oscar. 'Blue Eye Samurai' ha dominato le categorie TV, evidenziando l'evento come celebrazione del meglio dell'animazione sia nel cinema che in televisione. Questo riassunto incapsula una notte di notevoli realizzazioni e riconoscimenti su larga scala, essenziale per appassionati di animazione e professionisti del settore.
51ST ANNIE AWARDS SHOWCASE: 'ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE' DOMINATES AMIDST DIVERSE ANIMATION HONORS
At the 51ST ANNIE AWARDS, 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' led the evening with seven awards, including Best Feature, signaling a strong Oscar contender. 'Blue Eye Samurai' dominated TV categories, highlighting the event's celebration of animation's best across film and television. This summary encapsulates a night of notable achievements and industry-wide recognition, essential for animation fans and professionals.
PITTI TASTE: A GASTRONOMIC ODYSSEY THROUGH TIME AND FLAVOR
Embark on a culinary journey through the historic streets of Florence with Pitti Taste—an annual celebration steeped in the richness of Italian gastronomy. Beyond the enchanting flavors and traditions, Pitti Taste stands as a vibrant platform where industry experts and Made in Italy luminaries converge to share their insights. Under the meticulous guidance of Roberto Ruta and Lisa Chiari, this event seamlessly intertwines history, culture, and innovation, promising an authentic and quality-driven exploration of Italy's culinary scene. The images we share offer a glimpse into the world of ten producers, each with a unique taste history that beckons to be discovered amidst the sea of high-quality exhibitors.
PERFECT DAYS - A CINEMATIC TAPESTRY OF MINDFULNESS AND FRAGILE BEAUTY
Explore the cinematic tapestry of Wim Wenders' 'Perfect Days,' a mesmerizing drama that skillfully blends realism with poetic nuances. Delve into the nuanced portrayal by Kōji Yakusho, earning him the Best Actor Award at Cannes, as he navigates the complexities of an introverted character. Uncover the film's symbolic reminders of mindfulness, intertwined with a mysterious past that adds depth to the narrative. 'Perfect Days' emerges as an ode to the curative power of mindfulness, inviting audiences to reflect on the beauty found in daily routines. With a bittersweet ending and a poignant musical backdrop, this cinematic journey deserves its solid 7 out of 10, leaving viewers captivated by the simplicity and complexity of existence.

