Netflix’s adaptation of the hit series “Squid Game” is poised to hit screens with the premiere of “Squid Game: The Challenge” on November 22. This release coincides perfectly with Thanksgiving, allowing viewers to celebrate the holiday with a reality show based on a dystopian drama that starkly highlights the brutal consequences of late-stage capitalism. A heartwarming addition to the holiday festivities, to be sure!
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“Squid Game: The Challenge” will consist of 10 episodes, featuring over 450 contestants who will compete in events inspired by the original TV show, as well as some entirely new challenges. While there won’t be any bloodshed, the grand prize is an eye-catching $4.56 million, marking the largest payout in the history of reality television, according to Netflix.
The show pays homage to its source material with various references, including the iconic “red light, green light” doll and contestant costumes that mirror those from the series. The show’s shot composition and framing are also designed to evoke the same dystopian atmosphere.
Although we might not yet live in the capitalist dystopia depicted in the original Korean series, the production of this reality show generated headlines due to several contestants experiencing health emergencies from exposure to bitterly cold temperatures during one of the challenges. A producer revealed that some contestants were so determined to win the substantial prize that they endured hypothermia, leading to emotional and heart-wrenching departures.
In a little under a month, viewers will be able to witness real people enduring physical hardships for the slim chance of winning a life-changing prize. With odds of just 1 in 456, the competition promises a unique blend of suspense and drama. In comparison, other demanding reality shows like “Naked and Afraid” do not even offer a monetary reward.
Given that the original “Squid Game” is Netflix’s most-watched series, surpassing hits like “Stranger Things,” “Wednesday,” and “The Witcher,” the production of “Squid Game: The Challenge” was almost a foregone conclusion due to the immense popularity of the source material. It’s worth noting that fans of the series can also look forward to “Squid Game” season 2, though an official release date has yet to be announced.
