Netflix Reality Show Is Dystopian
- Reed Hastings, the founder of Netflix, seems to have missed the irony of emulating the wealthy spectators from “Squid Game” rather than the desperate contestants.
- Netflix’s latest attempt to capitalize on the success of “Squid Game” is “Squid Game: The Challenge,” a competition series that lacks the social commentary and mass murder of the original show.
- “The Challenge” is part of Netflix’s strategy to turn their homegrown hits into lasting intellectual property, as the company lacks legacy franchises of its own.
- The new reality show copies the structure and look of the original “Squid Game,” recreating the colorful production design and childlike games, but without the deadly nature of the tournament.
Netflix Reality Show Is Dystopian
The latest move by Netflix to capitalize on the success of “Squid Game” raises questions about the company’s approach to brand-building and the impact on the original show’s themes.
Capitalizing on Success
Netflix’s “Squid Game: The Challenge” is part of a broader effort to capitalize on the popularity of the original series, with plans for immersive experiences and a second season in the works. However, the focus on brand-building may dilute the impactful social commentary of the original show.
Emulating the Original
“The Challenge” faithfully recreates the look and structure of “Squid Game,” but without the deadly consequences. This raises questions about the show’s ability to convey the original’s themes of inequality and exploitation in a meaningful way.