A gory new Korean drama series called Bargain has been making waves, with fans comparing it to the hit Netflix show Squid Game. The dark thriller premiered on Paramount+ recently and has already caught the attention of viewers.
From short film to thrilling TV series
Bargain is an adaptation of a 2015 short film, which received critical acclaim at the Mise-en-scène Short Film Festival in South Korea. The gritty series follows three individuals who are forced to work together to escape a ruined hotel after an earthquake. However, the plot takes a dark turn as the show delves into topics such as sex scams, violent crime, organ harvesting, and organised gangs.
A surprise success
The series director, Jeon Woo-sung, originally thought Bargain was complete as a short film and never expected the opportunity to turn it into a TV show. However, when a production company offered him the chance, he rewrote the script, which went on to win Best Screenplay at the Canneseries Festival this year. Jeon was surprised by the series's critical success, as he expected it to be more divisive.
Changes for a TV audience
In order to adapt the series for television, Jeon made significant changes to the characters and storyline. He aimed to make the protagonist, Noh Hyung-soo, more likable and relatable to the audience. Additionally, he added more details about Park Joo-young's background to foster better understanding among viewers. Jeon also wanted to make the villains more interesting and evoke a sense of compassion in the audience.
A metaphor for capitalism
The collapse of the motel due to the earthquake plays a significant role in Bargain and serves as a metaphor for capitalism. Jeon explains that he wanted to highlight the negative aspects of capitalism in Korean society and its effects, such as the patriarchy. He added that the building collapse reflects the idea that capitalism is on the verge.
Similarities with Squid Game
Many viewers have drawn comparisons between Bargain and Squid Game, and Jeon finds it interesting to see people discussing the similarities. He believes that both series reflect the current societal issues related to capitalism and survival in Korean society. While he drew inspiration from other films, such as 1917 and Birdman, he injected black humor into Bargain to balance out its dark tone.
Bargain is available to stream on Paramount+.
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