Overview
The reviewer found Squid Game Season 3 disappointing overall, citing lack of payoff, unresolved storylines, and weak character arcs, though some moments and subplots were praised for their emotional impact.
Unresolved Storylines and Weak Payoff
- Season 3 fails to answer or resolve key plot threads set up in previous seasons.
- The detective’s arc is especially unsatisfying, with his lengthy search for the island and brother leading to no significant outcome.
- Supporting characters like Captain Park and the detective’s brother receive minimal development or closure.
- Investigation and rebellion subplots contribute little to the main narrative.
Character Arcs and Development
- Several characters receive little payoff despite significant buildup, such as Dieho and Minsu, whose resolutions feel abrupt or pointless.
- The mother-son subplot in the hide-and-seek game is highlighted as emotionally effective and true to established dynamics.
- Hyonju’s death and Nocule’s redemption arc are cited as standout moments.
- Many eliminated characters lack depth or audience investment, weakening the season’s emotional stakes.
Execution of Games and Set Pieces
- The hide-and-seek tag game is praised for tension and character-driven storytelling.
- The jump rope game and final Squid Game are criticized for lacking impact due to uninvested or underdeveloped players.
- The final confrontation and sacrificial ending are viewed as conceptually strong but poorly executed, with pacing and logic issues.
Portrayal of VIPs and Antagonists
- VIP characters are criticized for cartoonish dialogue, lack of depth, and unfulfilling screen time.
- The main antagonist’s (Inho) unmasking and backstory reveal are considered shallow and anticlimactic.
Positive Elements and Emotional Highlights
- Some character moments, such as the mother-son dynamic and Nocule’s storyline, are described as effective and emotionally resonant.
- Early episodes of the season and the execution of the tag game stand out as high points.
Final Scene and Setup for Future Content
- The post-credits scene teases an American Squid Game spin-off but is met with little enthusiasm from the reviewer.
Decisions
- Ji Hun sacrifices himself to ensure the baby wins the final game.
Recommendations / Advice
- Focus on tighter narrative resolution and deeper character payoffs in future seasons or spin-offs.
- Reduce screen time for caricatured antagonists unless their role is expanded meaningfully.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- What will the American Squid Game spin-off entail, and will it address prior criticisms?
- Will unresolved character arcs from Season 3 be revisited in future content?