Squid Game has taken social media by storm – and for good reason. A suspenseful story following hundreds of cash-strapped individuals participating in mysterious children’s games in hopes of winning a huge cash prize? Count us in! Here are 5 reasons why the series is bound to become your next favorite.

5 Reasons You Need to Watch “Squid Game”

5. The Impressive Cast and Creator

The creator of Squid Game is director Hwang Dong-hyuk, who is well known for award-winning films like Silenced, Miss Granny, and The Fortress. He never fails to impress, no matter the genre; and his dedication to Squid Game can be seen in the fact that he had been planning it for over 10 years. In addition to the creator, talented and well-known actors Lee Jung-jae and Park Hae-soo lead the cast. Both are award-winning actors, who are able to portray a wide range of characters. With Lee Jung-jae, who has numerous box office hits under his belt, and Park Hae-soo, who continues to impress with every new role; the best director and the best talents come together in Squid Game.

4. The Suspense

It’s impossible for all 456 players to survive and win the prize, but the suspense of who will die next and how they will die create an exciting atmosphere full of tension and terror. While the players initially have no clue about the deadly stakes, they find out after the first game. The difference in how these players willingly partake in the games marks a stark difference with other survival genre films and series. You’ll definitely get absorbed in the story as you see the darker side of human nature. The unpredictable events contribute to the heart-pounding entertainment as you anticipate what will happen to everyone.

3. The Twists to Childhood Games

The games that the participants must play in order to survive are all childhood games. The juxtaposition of these games with the deadly results of losing is a stark contrast to the innocence and fun experienced during childhood. Many of the games are familiar ones you may have played before, but you may also learn more about some classic Korean children’s games. The relatability to the simple but fatal games adds a nice and unexpected twist in comparison to other survival genre shows. You’ll be able to reminisce about your favorite childhood games as you watch the players battle it out.

2. A Deeper Plot

On the surface, you might think that Squid Game has a simple plot. However, the series is actually a genius allegory that’s meant to represent contemporary society and the never-ending competition of capitalism. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk’s creative intent is to show the irony of how the good intentions of capitalism meant to help people live well and prosper can actually harm humans and result in a brutal competition. You’ll get a strong, hard look at human nature and how everyone reacts in situations where you cannot trust anyone. There’s plenty of symbolism and deeper connections to appreciate here.

1. The Characters

As mentioned earlier, there’s an extremely talented cast of actors portraying the various players and individuals in the series. Each of them has their own unique but desperate situations that lead them to get involved in the dangerous games. From gambling debt to needing to provide for their families, these characters come from all walks of life. Many of them experience an inward struggle as they come to realize that their opponents need to die in order for themselves to win the game. While you see them come to terms with this, you’ll get further immersed in their individual stories, get invested, and possibly cry… a lot. :p

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Have you watched Squid Game yet? Email me at angeline.wheninmanila@gmail.com or send me a direct message at When in Manila Angeline on Facebook. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com Community at WIM Squad! Join our WhenInManila.com community on Viber, as well!