Netflix's flagship series "Squid Game" has concluded with Season 3, but fans are buzzing over a hint of an "American spin-off" featured in the final scene of the season, according to the Daily Mail on June 30 (local time).
According to the report, in the last scene of Season 3, released in its entirety on the 27th of last month, a new recruiter appears in the middle of a street in Los Angeles, proposing the game "Ddakji." This character is none other than Hollywood actress Cate Blanchett, who commanded attention with just a few lines, showcasing her overwhelming presence.
Following the release of this scene, speculation exploded among viewers worldwide, asking, "Is an American version of Squid Game being produced?" Some foreign media predicted that director David Fincher might be involved in the project, but Netflix stated, "Currently, there are no official plans for a spin-off."
The series creator, director Hwang Dong-hyuk, also clarified regarding Blanchett's grants, stating, "It was chosen not for promotional purposes, but to give weight to a scene." In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he said, "The story is completely finished. There is no need for a sequel."
However, the fan reaction was chilly. Many viewers expressed strong opposition, saying, "Adapting content that contains criticisms of Korean social issues and capitalism to an American style is a betrayal of its essence." Voices such as, "Why would they play Ddakji in the U.S.?" and "Stop Americanizing it already!" followed.
On social media, negative reactions continued, including comments like, "Squid Game USA? No thanks," "Does everything good have to be changed to American style?" and "They should rather create a Frontman prequel."
According to Netflix, Season 3 currently holds a score of 81% on Rotten Tomatoes and continues to perform well globally. Although the main series concludes with this season, which was personally wrapped up by director Hwang Dong-hyuk, the possibility of external expansion of the series still lingers.
[Photo] Netflix (captured from "Squid Game" video)
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