What's New is a recurring column that looks at the new films, music, books and DVD releases in and/or about Chinese mainland
New Film: Batman vs Superman - Dawn of Justice
There’s tons of intrigue behind DC’s massive follow-up to Man of Steel which lands a rare same-day US and China opening. Ben Affleck dons the Bat Suit as the Gotham Caped Crusader who travels to Metropolis to suss out this Superman guy. Batman’s just one of the numerous DC characters to make appearances in the film with the rebooted franchise debuts of Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash and Cybord. 300’s Zack Snyder directs. In theaters nationwide on March 25.
New Music: Black Kirin - National Trauma
Nanchang label Pest Productions are back to their dark ways releasing the debut disc by Black Kirin. Formed three years ago in Changchun, the symphonic folk black death metal band has ambitiously released English and Mandarin versions of National Trauma. Regardless of language, it’s a fascinating mix of downtuned guitars, guttural vocals and traditional Chinese opera sounds. Available at Pest Productions' Bandcamp.
New Music: William Gray - Flounce
The UK raised, Hangzhou based singer-songwriter has drawn “positive comparisons with Damon Albarn, Elliott Smith, Bon Iver and Badly Drawn Boy.” A former That’s contributor, he toys with electronics on his playful new release Flounce. Available at Bandcamp.
New Podcast: China History Podcast, Zhou Enlai Episode 7
We’re unabashed fans of Lazlo Montgomery’s China History Podcast, which just dropped Part 7 of their Zhou Enlai series. The PRC’s legendary first Premier helped stabilize the country’s foreign relation and this admittedly “longer than expected episode,” China History Podcast delves into his role in the Cultural Revolution, where he was the main driving force behind affairs of the state and a force protecting others from the wrath of the Red Guards. Available here.
New Short Story: Chronicles of the Ancient Village, by Na Zhangyuan
Every week, Paper Republic publishes an English translation of a Chinese short story as part of their efforts to increase links between China's literati and the English reading public. Nick Admussen translates this essay that previously appeared in Chutzpah magazine by Yi writer Na Zhangyuan. Chronicles of the Anicent Village pays tribute to the rich culture of the Yi minority who live in Vietnam, Thailand and Yunnan province, delving into how the old ways affect the modern community. Available at Paper Republic.
New TV: Daredevil, Season Two
There’s no escaping Marvel’s domination of pop culture these days with even Daredevil getting his shine. While the Ben Affleck starring film was a notorious bust, Netflix has found a winning formula with their reality drenched TV series. Season two was released last week and it’s a glorious binge watch with comic favorites like The Punisher and Elektra playing prominent roles. Although regulation ensures it will be some time before it legitimately lands on streaming services, the Netflix model of releasing an entire season at once means copies will be circulating around your local DVD store soon, if not already.
For past What's New columns, click here.
Have a tip about a new release? Get in touch at arts@urbanatomy.com with the subject 'What's New.'
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