Winners and Losers
MAHIMA KEDLAYA | NOV. 2, 2021 | ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Infiltrating the mind, perverting one’s memories of childhood games, and invoking a multitude of emotions, “Squid Game,” a nine-episode South Korean dystopian drama, has become the most-watched show on Netflix. The show’s disconcerting soundtrack, costumes, and scenery aids in its originality and thought-provoking commentary on socio-economic issues evident in all societies.
“Squid Game” portrays 456 players – all victims of societal injustice. Some are riddled with debt, unable to support their families, while others appear completely lost, grasping for any means to gain power in an unequal and unforgiving society. With hopes of winning a $38 million prize, the players are immediately enticed into a series of games, blinded by their desperation. Childhood games that seem to inspire nostalgia soon evolve into the haunting murder of hundreds. With each game, the number of players slowly dwindles down to one winning contestant. As the show develops, it becomes evident that its aim is not just to entertain, but to enlighten viewers on the harshness and indifference present in a materialistic society.
“I wanted to write a story that was an allegory or fable about modern capitalist society, something that depicts an extreme competition, somewhat like the extreme competition of life,” said Hwang Dong-hyuk, the show’s creator and director, in an interview with Variety.
This dystopian series has been compared to films such as “The Hunger Games,” as its anti-capitalist message is conveyed through the players’ challenges in the survival games. However, these players, driven by financial struggles, willingly waged their lives with the desire of potentially achieving economic liberation. Anticipating their horrific journeys, viewers are left in a state of restlessness and contemplation.
“I found it extremely fascinating that the players were given a choice and then purposefully returned to participate in the games,” said senior Nikhita Guhan. “I think this is very applicable to real life as many people are driven to distress and irrationality due to economic issues and class disparities.”
This depiction of economic and class issues highlights the increasing debt, income inequality, and worsening labor market caused by a detrimental financial crisis. It demonstrates a potential future for today’s money-oriented society as it reveals the corruption and unethicality embedded in daily life.
“Squid Game” also touches upon issues inherent in an unjust society. The elderly and women are immediately considered to be inferior, serving as burdens for the youthful male players. This gender inequality, specifically regarding the pernicious views held against women, is a very prevalent issue in society. This assumption of female inferiority has been facilitated by society as males continue to receive preference. The players’ constant reverence for masculine strength signifies the limited social mobility evident in most societies. This hypocrisy apparent in a game that claims equality is mirrored in society.
This Netflix drama’s portrayal of societal and economic tragedies can be considered a critical commentary on the injustices seen on a global scale. As economic turmoil and social inequality continue to devastate individuals, Squid Game remains a vessel for exploration and dissection of such issues.