Unanswered questions and cliffhangers: Squid Game Season 2

 Dr Ramandeep Mahal reviews 'Squid Games Season 2'

The first season of Squid Game, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, was a cultural phenomenon that deftly explored human nature, class conflict, and the consequences of desperation. It was a moment that captured the zeitgeist, drawing viewers into its shocking, anxiety-inducing narrative. After a three-year wait, Squid Game Season 2 has finally arrived on Netflix, continuing the story with seven gripping episodes.

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The new season picks up where the first left off, reuniting us with familiar characters and introducing new ones, all with their sights set on revenge against the creators of the twisted games. To fully grasp the events of Season 2, it’s essential to watch Season 1, which laid the groundwork for much of the unfolding drama. While the sequel doesn't quite match the groundbreaking impact of its predecessor, it still delivers a highly entertaining experience.

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The first episode is particularly strong, reintroducing Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), who is now determined to use his prize money to track down the founders of the Squid Games. Season 1 which ended with Gi-hun dyeing his hair red and confronting the mysterious salesman (Gong Yoo). Season 2 continues his pursuit, delving into his mission to dismantle the organization. This season is packed with twists and open threads, leaving viewers with plenty of unanswered questions and a cliffhanger ending that is, for some, a letdown.

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One of the standout moments occurs when Gi-hun confronts the salesman and engages in a deadly game of Russian Roulette. This scene underscores the cult-like devotion to the games, a theme that remains under-explored but brimming with potential.

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The season’s new characters add depth and intrigue. Notably, the primary antagonist, the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), takes on a more active role, even becoming a participant. His interactions with Gi-hun are charged with tension, as he seeks to understand him on a deeper level. Thanos (Choi Seung-hyun), a failed rapper with a drug-fueled recklessness, is another fascinating addition. His fearless antics and antagonistic behaviour make for compelling viewing, though his unexpected death feels abrupt. Hyun-ju (Park Sung-hoon), a transgender ex-soldier, elicits both empathy and admiration, while No-eul (Park Gyu-young), a guard who fled North Korea, brings an additional layer of emotional complexity. Her story of loss and resilience is one of the season's highlights. Other memorable characters include a mother and her gambling-addicted son, vulnerable young women, ex-Marines, and even a crypto influencer, all thrown into the chaos of the games.

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The production value of Squid Game Season 2 is exceptional. The settings are both magnificent and eerie, with the multi-coloured staircase once again serving as a striking visual centre-piece. The design and cinematography elevate the series, creating an atmosphere of dread and anticipation that perfectly complements the narrative.

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While Season 2 doesn’t quite reach the heights of the first season, it offers plenty of suspense, character growth, and shocking twists to keep viewers engaged. The introduction of new characters enriches the story, and the series successfully builds anticipation for future installments. The cliffhanger ending may frustrate some, but it ensures that the story remains open for further exploration.

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Overall, Squid Game Season 2 earns an 8/10 for its riveting narrative, compelling characters, and stunning production design. It’s a must-watch for fans of the series, though it leaves room for improvement in addressing the unanswered questions and themes introduced.