This week, we explore a diverse range of stories: an 18-year-old painter from Gaza, Zohran’s documentary journey, anti-ICE art sleds in Minnesota, the allure of ‘Heated Rivalry,’ and the hidden history of reggaetón. Molly Fischer of The New Yorker delves into a filmmaker’s journey with Mamdani before his mayoral bid, capturing his motivations: ‘I kept asking him, ‘What’s going on? You’re working really hard. What are your ambitions?’’ Bacha shared. In September 2024, Mamdani revealed his mayoral aspirations to her in Astoria. Despite the cautionary tale of the 2016 ‘Weiner’ documentary, Mamdani pressed on, allowing Bacha to continue filming and capturing his evolving narrative.
In the realm of archaeology, Christian Thorsberg writes for Smithsonian about a remarkable discovery: archaeologists unearthed a basilica that aligns with 2,000-year-old designs by Roman architect Vitruvius. Officials, including Andrea Pessina, are confident it reflects Vitruvius’ work, noting its precision. Meanwhile, in the world of photography, a roll of undeveloped film from a second-hand camera revealed 70-year-old images of post-war Switzerland. Pesala Bandara reports for Peta Pixel on this fascinating recovery, which involved careful development to reveal scenes of a family and skiers, including those outside St. Moritz’s Badrutt’s Palace Hotel.
Turning to social justice, Pablo Meriguet in People’s Dispatch sheds light on the assassination of Honduran activist Berta Cáceres. A new report uncovers a network of corporate and political entities implicated in her murder, linked to the Agua Zarca project and involving the DESA company and the Atala family. Deborah Chasman of Boston Review interviews Robin D. G. Kelley, discussing the broader implications of policing and mass incarceration in the U.S., particularly in light of ICE’s actions.
Zoe Keziah Mendelson, in a Substack series, argues for deleting Instagram amid concerns over privacy and the platform’s political impact, noting its history of compliance with authoritarian regimes. Phillip Maciak explores the captivating storytelling of ‘Heated Rivalry,’ highlighting its emotional depth and the chemistry between leads Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, which has resonated with audiences. Lastly, a Minneapolis neighborhood’s anti-ICE art sled rally, featured in photos by Joe and Jen Photo in Racket, offers a glimpse of joy and community spirit.
