Squid Game” became a popular series in the U.S. and around the world for its commentary on capitalism and its gory nature where competitors put their lives on the line by playing children’s games.
The series became so popular that an American reality show spin-off was created called “Squid Game: The Challenge” where 456 players compete in games inspired by the original show (minus the deaths of course) for the chance to win $4.56 million.
From the moment Reed Hastings tuned into an earnings call wearing a green-and-white tracksuit,
Netflix’s latest answer to an enduring problem. Without legacy franchises of its own, the relatively young company has to work overtime to turn its homegrown hits into durable wells of IP. “Squid Game” itself will get a Season 2 at some point next year, also helmed by Hwang, but brand-building has no time for quality control. “The Challenge” itself is just one part of a multi-pronged attempt to capitalize on the “Squid Game” phenomenon; next month, L.A.-area fans can enroll in “Squid Game: The Trials,” where they can pay for the privilege of pretending to debase themselves for a slim chance at erasing their debts. Reality TV and immersive “experiences” are cheaper and faster to whip up than a scripted production, and both help to feed the beast over the long wait.
Someone had the bright idea, and someone else gave it a green light, and once upon a time I decided I liked television enough to spend my professional life watching and reviewing it, so here we all are. After eight episodes of fake death, real tears and more green tracksuits than anyone could keep track of, I must beg you not to watch "Challenge." Don't hate-watch it. Don't watch it out of curiosity. Don't give validation to this exploitative, unentertaining drivel that showcases real human suffering more than anything remotely amusing.
Though it might not be life-or-death (despite multiple players using this exact phrase), “Squid Game: The Challenge” builds a tight, compelling competition, and one that viewers will have to watch week-to-week (a five-episode premiere, four episodes the week later, and finale the week after that). And credit to Netflix for knowing exactly what they’re doing; don’t be surprised if you start a “Squid Game” rewatch immediately after this one.
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