Latest news with #Frontman
Forbes
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
The ‘Squid Game' Season 3 Ending Was A Mess
Squid Game Squid Game has ended its run with a season 3 finale that served as a second half of season 2, more or less, the overly-large season covering a single game split in two. While there were certainly good moments in the season, episode 2, for instance, was one of the best in all three seasons of Squid Game; once we made it to the end, it was just…not a good finale, and the entire thing very much felt like it was not supposed to exist, a product of Netflix trying to milk the popular series when it should have been a one-off. What went wrong? (Spoilers follow) The turning point was the birth of the baby. The CGI baby who was, admittedly, halfway decent CGI, but still, a CGI baby that then had to be carried through the games as another player because the idiot VIPs thought it would be funny. This totally changed Gi-hun's mission, which was already sort of neutered after his failed rebellion as he had given up his ultimate goal of taking down the Frontman and the games. The end here was all over the place. In a bout of incredibly bad timing, Gi-hun opts to jump off the final tower to follow the rules of the game and save the baby, first A) assuming these insane game operators will actually do anything kind with the baby (who they were willing to let die thirty seconds earlier) and B) give it billions in prize money. Squid Game The timing is poor because just minutes later, the Coast Guard and the detective arrive to storm the place, meaning if this did not happen coincidentally that close together, Gi-hun probably could have escaped with the baby if the Frontman hit the button to let them down, which seems like something he would do at that point. But the show wanted to get that Gi-hun sacrifice in there despite it meaning practically nothing. The Frontman ends up giving this completely random baby to his brother, along with the baby's cash because well, the baby had to go somewhere since the final four episodes were based around it. I am fundamentally okay with the Frontman surviving all this, but I can't believe we got through this entire series without a single one of those deeply annoying, horrifyingly cruel VIPs getting killed. We were waiting the entire series for that, and they just…disappear in the end. I guess maybe they got blown up? We have no idea. The Cate Blanchett cameo was the cherry on top. I suppose the idea here was to cast a recognizable actor in that role as they did on the Korean side, but it certainly was a bizarre moment to see a hugely recognizable Western actress in the last moments of the show (the only other Western actors being the abominable VIPs). As of now, there is no confirmed American spin-off coming, but obviously, that seems like something Netflix would do. Who knows if they could rope Cate Blanchett into an entire series? But the point is, the games didn't end anyway, so all of this was pointless and just left open-ended for more seasons someday or spin-offs. I thought season 3 started strong, but it was ultimately a thrown-together mess by the end where everything jumbled together and little made sense. It also negated the entire arc of Gi-hun within minutes, which was a terrible end to his character. What a nightmare. Follow me on Twitter, YouTube, Bluesky and Instagram. Pick up my sci-fi novels the Herokiller series and The Earthborn Trilogy.
The Review Geek
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Review Geek
Squid Game Season 3 Review – Does the finale bring back Season 1's charm?
Episode Guide Episode 1 -| Review Score – 3/5 Episode 2 -| Review Score – 3.5/5 Episode 3 -| Review Score – 3.5/5 Episode 4 -| Review Score – 3.5/5 Episode 5 -| Review Score – 3.5/5 Episode 6 -| Review Score – 3/5 After Squid Game pushed the K-drama genre to new heights of fame, it was renewed for two more seasons to wrap up the story. Following a lacklustre Season 2 which acted more like a transition between the first and the final season, Squid Game Season 3 aired in June 2025. And it gave us all the greatest hits from twisted mind games and betrayals to even scarier death games and a showdown of epic proportions. The K-drama begins with Seong Gi-hun, a desperate debtor who promises to turn his life around when he gets the chance to win over 45 billion won in a series of children's games. However, what he doesn't know is that he and over 450 other players will have to compete in life-threatening games. Squid Game Season 3 picks up right after the previous season, with the remaining players of the second game getting disheartened by their failed rebellion. As they are forced to continue playing the games, there is further discord among the players. Jun-hee seems to have given up while Gi-hun turns his anger towards Dae-ho. Geum-ja appeals to the players' humanity while the Frontman continues to taunt Gi-hun. The games get deadlier and the players struggle to survive. And in the outside world, Jun-ho and Choi Woo-seok continue to search for the Squid Game's island, unaware that there is a traitor in the midst. The series is as star-studded as it can get, and brings back Season 2 faces like Lee Jung-jae, Wi Ha-joon, Lee Byung-hun, Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Gyu-young, Park Sung-hoon, Lee Jin-wook, Yang Dong-geun, Kang Ae-sim and Jo Yu-ri among others. It is helmed by director Hwang Dong-hyuk who also worked on the previous two seasons, so the final season is definitely in safe hands. Squid Game Season 3 brings back some of the charm of the first season. Each episode gets better than the last as the writer concocts riskier death games, absurd logic of the greedy players and the desperation of the dwindling rebels. It also has time to rehash Season 1's themes, such as faith in humanity vs man's selfish nature, and the financial and mental divide between the rich and poor, by making the VIPs more active participants. Apart from these recurring themes, there are several callbacks to the first season as well such as the inhuman VIPs enjoying the games, In-ho trying to convince Gi-hun of Chairman Oh's beliefs and even a deja vu of the iconic marble game involving shocking betrayals and deaths that prove that plot armour was never a thing in this show. Every episode is packed to the brim with thrilling plot twists, heartwrenching moments, and the bright and cheerful aesthetics of the Squid Game building, now stained with blood and hopelessness. The credit also goes to every single member of the cast as they pull out all the stops for the finale. Special shoutout to Kang Ha-neul, who may be known for his goofy roles, but portrays the complex Dae-ho so well that we cannot hate the character even if we want to. Kang Ae-sim's Geum-ja facing the biggest betrayal during one of the games will bring everyone to tears. But it is Yim Si-wan who steals the show in the end with Myung-gi's quiet scheming. To match Squid Game Season 3's wickedness, the action gets gorier, the props get creepier and there is an overall sense of suffocation even when a game is set on towers. The eerie, discordant string music continues and the drama even expands on the VIPs' world with miniatures of the games and extravagant outfits. But by the time we reach the end, we realise that there is no big bang that the show should have wrapped up with. We'll try our best to stay spoiler-free but since Squid Game is literally about death games, can you really be mad at us for mentioning that people die? Anyway, we don't have a problem with anyone dying; we know what we signed up for. The problem is the pace at which everyone is killed off in Season 3. By the end, since not many important characters survive, the show is left to pick off the extras. And so their deaths don't have any impact. It doesn't help that the novelty is gone as well. The reason why Season 1's ending packed an emotional punch is that viewers are left to believe that there will be multiple winners in the final game. When Sae-byeok and Sang-woo are killed, we are in for a shock, surprised at how Season 1 could top the emotional charge of the marble game. So, when Season 3's final game uses the same formula, it is not a surprise anymore. Seasons 2 and 3 also fail to be as satisfactory as Season 1 because they have extremely high ambitions which are never met. By being greedy like the billionaires of Squid Game, Netflix ruins the perfect legacy of what could have been a one-hit wonder.
Korea Herald
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Leaked set photo, new games, and a baby's cry: What to expect in season 3 of 'Squid Game'
Frontman's next move, whether the games will finally come to an end remain key questions 'Squid Game' wraps up with the release of its final season this Friday, closing out a franchise that redefined global streaming hits when it debuted in 2021. Season 1 saw cash-strapped players fight to the death in twisted children's games, with Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) emerging as the lone survivor. Instead of escaping with his prize of 45.6 billion won ($33 million), he returns in Season 2 to end the games, only to be captured by masked guards before he can succeed. As the third season approaches, here's a breakdown of what to expect, based on teasers and key spoilers already circulating. One of the biggest threads heading into the finale is whether Gi-hun can finally put an end to the Squid Games — the deadly games orchestrated for the entertainment of the ultra-wealthy. According to creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, this season is designed to challenge viewers with philosophical questions. 'In today's capitalist society, where excessive competition and the constant stimulation of human desire lead to feelings of frustration and defeat, can we, as humans, create a better future?' Hwang said during a June 9 press conference. 'Can we offer the next generation a more sustainable world?' Whether Gi-hun can break the cycle and forge a new path, or be consumed by the very system he's trying to destroy, will be at the heart of the finale. Fans can also expect a fresh lineup of high-stakes children's games. Past seasons featured Korean staples like the dalgona candy challenge and the titular squid game. Season 3 trailers tease even grander set pieces, such as a maze-like arena where contestants seem to face off head-to-head, and a massive jump rope led by the returning Young-hee and her newly revealed male counterpart, Chul-soo. Observant fans speculate that new games might include monkey bars, chess, or Korea's traditional yut game, based on background artwork spotted on the dormitory walls, echoing the hidden clues from the first season. Another storyline to watch involves Jun-hee, a pregnant contestant who miraculously made it to the final stretch. The teaser for the new season ended with the chilling sound of a baby's cry, prompting theories about whether she gives birth mid-game, and what it could mean if new life enters a competition to the death. Then there's the game master Frontman, played by Lee Byung-hun. In the second season, he infiltrates the game in disguise, ostensibly to test Gi-hun, before ultimately crushing the rebellion and revealing his true identity. Despite this, the character has shown flickers of empathy, and the actor has teased a complex arc involving his conflicting loyalties. Will Frontman stay loyal to the system or help bring it down? Whether he doubles down or flips sides remains in play. And thanks to a now-infamous behind-the-scenes leak, fans are also watching for a possible return of Squid Game participant Kyung-seok (Lee Jin-uk), believed to be dead after being shot by Park Gyu-young's character in Season 2. A now-deleted photo Park posted on her social media shows a man who looks like Lee resting beside her in a pink guard suit, sending fans into a frenzy. Fans are now speculating whether Kyung-seok survived or has been repurposed into the system.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Squid Game Season 3 leak sparks frenzy days before release — Is this 'dead' character making a comeback for the finale?
Squid Game season 3 leak: The end is near for Squid Game, the breakout Netflix phenomenon that reshaped global television when it exploded onto screens in 2021. With the release of its final season this Friday (June 27), fans are preparing to say goodbye to the twisted, high-stakes world of childhood games turned deadly. And from the looks of it, the finale is going out with a bang. After two seasons of deadly games, masked guards, and heartbreaking deaths, the story is back to where it began, with Gi Hun, played by Emmy winner Lee Jung Jae. He survived Season 1 and walked away with 45.6 billion won (around $33 million), but instead of enjoying the money, he returned in Season 2 to try and stop the games for good. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned, and by the end of the season, Gi-hun was caught before he could take the system down. Squid Game season 3: Gi Hun vs the Games Season 3 promises to answer the big question: can Gi Hun really dismantle the Squid Games? Series creator Hwang Dong Hyuk hinted at deeper philosophical questions in the final instalment. 'In today's capitalist society, where excessive competition and the constant stimulation of human desire lead to feelings of frustration and defeat, can we, as humans, create a better future?' he asked during a press conference on June 9. 'Can we offer the next generation a more sustainable world?' As Gi Hun stares down the very machine that tried to consume him, viewers will be watching to see whether he can break the cycle or be broken by it. Deadlier games, new faces Squid Game Season 3 isn't just about ideology; it's also teasing some of the most intense games yet. Early trailers reveal chaotic new arenas, including a massive maze-like battleground and a terrifying oversized jump rope challenge, this time led by Young-hee and her newly revealed male counterpart, Chul Soo. Eagle-eyed fans have been dissecting teaser frames for clues, suggesting possible new challenges based on traditional Korean games like yut, monkey bars, or even chess. These guesses stem from blink-and-you'll-miss-it artwork shown on the dormitory walls, reminiscent of the visual breadcrumbs laid throughout Season 1. A Baby in the Games? Squid Game Season 3's shocking twist One of the most buzzed-about characters this season is Jun Hee, a pregnant contestant who defied all odds to reach the final rounds. The trailer ends with the unmistakable sound of a baby crying, sparking wild theories about whether she actually gives birth mid-game. Could the presence of a newborn shift the emotional core of the show? And what happens when new life enters a space designed entirely around death? Viewers will be watching closely to see how Squid Game navigates this harrowing twist. Frontman's loyalty in question Another major plotline centres around the enigmatic Frontman, portrayed by Lee Byung Hun. After going undercover in Season 2 to squash a brewing rebellion, he revealed his identity and reaffirmed his position in the power structure but not without showing glimpses of inner conflict. Lee has teased a more complicated arc in the final season, hinting at the possibility that Frontman may be wavering in his loyalty to the system. Will he betray the elite organisation he helped enforce? Or double down on the brutality to keep the order intact? Leaked clues a shocking return And in classic Squid Game fashion, a major twist may already be in play thanks to a now-deleted behind-the-scenes photo. Actor Park Gyu Young, who plays Kang No Eun in the show, briefly posted a shot of herself beside a man believed to be Lee Jin Wook — aka Kyung Seok — who was presumed dead after a gunshot wound in Season 2. What's more noticeable is he was wearing a pink guard uniform. Now, fans are wondering: did Kyung Seok survive? And if so, has he become part of the very system he once fought against? With Squid Games season 3 just days away, fans are dissecting every clue. Whether Gi Hun finds justice or falls victim to the same ruthless game, it's sure this season is going to have everyone talking. For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.
Korea Herald
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Leaked set photo, new games, and a baby's cry: What to expect for 'Squid Game' 3
Frontman's next move, whether the games will finally come to an end remain key questions 'Squid Game' wraps up with the release of its final season this Friday, closing out a franchise that redefined global streaming hits when it debuted in 2021. Season 1 saw cash-strapped players fight to the death in twisted children's games, with Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) emerging as the lone survivor. Instead of escaping with his prize of 45.6 billion won ($33 million), he returns in Season 2 to end the games, only to be captured by masked guards before he can succeed. As the third season approaches, here's a breakdown of what to expect, based on teasers and key spoilers already circulating. One of the biggest threads heading into the finale is whether Gi-hun can finally put an end to the Squid Games — the deadly games orchestrated for the entertainment of the ultra-wealthy. According to creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, this season is designed to challenge viewers with philosophical questions. 'In today's capitalist society, where excessive competition and the constant stimulation of human desire lead to feelings of frustration and defeat, can we, as humans, create a better future?' Hwang said during a June 9 press conference. 'Can we offer the next generation a more sustainable world?' Whether Gi-hun can break the cycle and forge a new path, or be consumed by the very system he's trying to destroy. Fans can also expect a fresh lineup of high-stakes children's games. Past seasons featured Korean staples like the dalgona candy challenge and the titular squid game. Season 3 trailers tease even grander set pieces, such as a maze-like arena where contestants seem to face off head-to-head, and a massive jump rope led by the returning Young-hee and her newly revealed male counterpart, Chul-soo. Observant fans speculate that new games might include monkey bars, chess, or Korea's traditional yut game, based on background artwork spotted on the dormitory walls, echoing the hidden clues from the first season. Another storyline to watch involves Jun-hee, a pregnant contestant who miraculously made it to the final stretch. The teaser for the new season ended with the chilling sound of a baby's cry, prompting theories about whether she gives birth mid-game, and what it could mean if new life enters a competition to the death. Then there's the game master Frontman, played by Lee Byung-hun. In the second season, he infiltrates the game in disguise, ostensibly to test Gi-hun, before ultimately crushing the rebellion and revealing his true identity. Despite this, the character has shown flickers of empathy, and the actor has teased a complex arc involving his conflicting loyalties. Will Frontman stay loyal to the system or help bring it down? Whether he doubles down or flips sides remains in play. And thanks to a now-infamous behind-the-scenes leak, fans are also watching for a possible return of Squid Game participant Kyung-seok (Lee Jin-uk), believed to be dead after being shot by Park Gyu-young's character in Season 2. A now-deleted photo Park posted on her social media shows a man who looks like Lee resting beside her in a pink guard suit, sending fans into a frenzy. Fans are now speculating whether Kyung-seok survived or has been repurposed into the system.
