Squid Game -- a new survival-genre series on Netflix -- reached No.1 in no time after its recent release. In the nine-episode South Korean series, 456 desperate contestants in dire need of money receive a mysterious invitation to join a game. As they are locked in a secret location and compete in a game to win 45.6 billion won (1.3 billion baht), they soon realise that the consequence of losing each mini-game is death.
Such a storyline reminds viewers of 13 Beloved, a 2006 award-winning Thai horror comedy film starring Krissada Sukosol Clapp. Directed by Chukiat Sakveerakul, the film tells the story of a desperate office man led through progressively challenging, degrading, and dangerous stunts by mysterious callers from an underground reality game show. At the end of the game, he can win the grand prize of 100 million baht in exchange for other people's lives, or his own.
Squid Game has become such a big hit especially on social networks that characters' outfits have become available for sale online. But in terms of the series itself, Squid Game is a fresh take on the survival genre. Here's why.\
It's all about choices
In Squid Game, the players choose to participate in the games. In any other survival flick, the choice isn't an option due to external factors. While Squid Game participants are initially unaware that losing results in death, they play more games even after knowing this fact. This choice reflects the utterly desperate situations they are in.
Deeper themes
On the surface, Squid Game is very thrilling as the games take place and more contestants are killed. However, the bloodshed serves a purpose and highlights the deeper messages of the series. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk has talked about how the series is an allegory for modern capitalist society as depicted by extreme competition. Beyond the excitement, there's a philosophical factor to it and actual depth.
Childhood games
Another difference is the use of childhood games. While many survival genre shows focus on mind games or require physical prowess, the games in Squid Game are more relatable. Even if players haven't played all of the games before, the rules are pretty easy to understand. With no need to be confused over the games, the audience can focus on other interesting facets of the series.
Unique aesthetic
Many survival genre shows rely on visual effects, especially if it's dystopian or set in a harsh environment like the ocean. Squid Game, however, utilises large-scale sets that are colourful and reminiscent of enormous playgrounds. The masked workers' bright pink suits, the players' green tracksuits, and the pastel-toned settings add a unique visual appeal. All of the vibrant colours and giant settings make for a one-of-a-kind backdrop for the deadly children's games.
