Numerous Netflix fans have been left unimpressed after the platform shared the first look at Squid Game: The Challenge, a reality show where people battle for money much like the popular fictional series. The show will transform the South Korean thriller into the biggest reality competition ever, the streaming service says.
While the reality version of Squid Game won't have the same life and death consequences, there is still a lot to lose. Netflix says 456 players will compete to win $4.56million (£3.65million) - the largest cash prize in reality television history.
Netflix says the show will work via a series of games, where "each player will be pushed to their limits." And "forced to ask themselves just how far they'll go to win, with opportunistic alliances, cutthroat strategies and timely betrayals to follow."
In a post on Twitter, Netflix shared a sneak peak of the upcoming reality series. But not everyone was excited to see Squid Game be turned into a real-life show.
Bobothedamnfool replied: "Everyday I'm reminded that the point of the show flies over people's head." Meanwhile, a user on YouTube called Ferchyzcv wrote: "Netflix missing the point of their own show! Lol." Alexjowanovitz2501 echoed: "Congrats! Y’all missed the whole point of the show."
Some were more interested in a trailer of Squid Game season two coming out. Onionhaseyeo3207 penned: "Eagerly waiting for season 2, hopefully it's worth the hype!" Abrahamgonzalez8935 exclaimed: "I want my season two!!!!!!!!!!!"
However, others were more positive and are looking forward to it arriving on Netflix later this year. Cvhlaw added: "Looks incredible. Can't wait to watch!"
Maker456 put: "This is super crazy show lol Can't wait!" MoeedAhmed-fq3jk admitted: "Excitement is on high level." Rowoon934 typed: "Although it’s a game , I still feel so bad and terrified."
Squid Game: The Challenge controversy
Squid Game creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has previously addressed concerns around The Challenge, with many saying it goes against the message of the series which, Hwang had described as a "fable about modern capitalist society."
He explained: "I know that there are some concerns of taking that message and creating it into a reality show with a cash prize. I would say that reproductions of such efforts are going to bring new meaning to the [entertainment] industry, and I hope that this is going to be a great new direction for the industry overall."
The production of The Challenge has been mired in controversy in recent months, with Rolling Stone magazine speaking to contestants about their experiences. They revealed they allegedly experienced "inhumane" conditions, results were "rigged" and that people were genuinely willing to die for the life changing amount of money.
When Squid Game: The Challenge will be released
According to Netflix, Squid Game: The Challenge will premiere on the streaming platform in November 2023. The 10-episode competition was filmed in the UK at Cardington Studios, a former RAF base in Bedfordshire.
