Netflix recently released a trailer for its upcoming competition series, “Squid Game: The Challenge,” based on the hugely popular scripted drama series that gained immense popularity in 2021. In the original “Squid Game,” fictional characters competed in high-stakes challenges for a substantial cash prize, with the twist being that losing a challenge meant losing their lives.
Now, real individuals will participate in challenges reminiscent of those in the original series, but without the life-threatening consequences. The winner stands to win a substantial prize of $4.56 million. Nevertheless, Netflix has faced significant criticism following the trailer’s release.
Numerous social media users have shared their opinions on the transformation of “Squid Game” into a real competition, with many arguing that Netflix has missed the fundamental message of the original series. Some users have pointed out that the original show aimed to portray the extreme measures desperate individuals would take for money, and they view this new iteration as contradictory to that message. Additionally, some are concerned that “Squid Game: The Challenge” could potentially tarnish their perception of the original Korean thriller.
Critics have focused their ire on the exploitative nature of the new series, drawing attention to the fact that the creator of the smash-hit show received relatively little compensation compared to the series’ value. Reportedly, Hwang Dong-hyuk received a lump sum, which he accepted since he had spent years trying to sell the show. In contrast, Netflix’s internal value increased by $900 million.
While some remain critical of Netflix’s decision to turn the series into a competition show, others are eagerly anticipating its release. What are your thoughts on Netflix bringing “Squid Game” to life with the new competition series, “Squid Game: The Challenge“?
