Squid Game Reboot Should Learn From Stephen King’s The Long Walk

Although the future of the Netflix Squid Game reboot still remains uncertain, it could potentially learn a lesson or two from a new Stephen King movie if it sees the light of day. Squid Game season 3 ended with a massive cliffhanger that paved the way for an American reboot, but Netflix, so far, has made no confirmations about the franchise’s return.

Considering Squid Game‘s virality and success on the streamer, it is only a matter of time before it returns to Netflix in some capacity. Since season 3 marked the end of the Netflix Korean show‘s run, any potential extensions of the franchise will likely mark the inception of a whole new narrative in the world setup by the original show.

After Squid Game season 3’s ending scene, which hints at the existence of an American version of the titular games, it is hard not to believe the show will return as an English reboot. David Fincher is also rumored to be attached to the project. Regardless of what the future holds for reboot, it should learn a lot from a new Stephen King film.

The Long Walk Sets The Perfect Blueprint For The Potential American Squid Game Reboot

A closer look at the adaptation of Stephen King’s The Long Walk reveals how it is similar to Squid Game in more ways than one. Especially when the rules of the games central to both the movie and the show are considered, it is hard not to notice several overlaps and thematic parallels.

In both The Long Walk and Squid Game, only one character can win the central game. The winner in both is also promised freedom and wealth, but at a terrible cost. However, what makes The Long Walk feel more immersive and deeply emotional is its emphasis on the internal lives of its characters.

Although Squid Game, too, did a good job of developing its characters in its earlier arc, the show seemingly lost its way after season 1 and became more about spectacle. Unlike Squid Game, which tried to elevate the stakes with each new game, The Long Walk kept things simple by driving its narrative with a simple walking survival game.

The Long Walk resonated with viewers because it spent long stretches on the conversations between its characters, highlighting all the acts of kindness and moments of vulnerability that made them human. It perfectly adapted Stephen King’s book and magnified how even the smallest connections can become lifelines in a situation that demands the gradual loss of self.

While Squid Game‘s focus on spectacle made its game increasingly fun, the potential reboot cannot tread the same path. It must etch its own identity in the franchise, and it can only achieve that by taking the same approach as The Long Walk.

By Following The Long Walk, The Squid Game Reboot Can Avoid The Korean Show’s Season 3 Mistakes

Squid Game season 3 was met with immense criticism because its story and ending felt rushed. Many character beats were abruptly closed without giving audiences the pay-off they were expecting after investing hours on the series. By focusing more on character arcs and giving every main character a well-rounded closure, like The Long Walk, the Squid Game reboot can elevate itself above the original.

Only time will tell how the potential reboot will turn out. However, it has the opportunity to riff on the Korean show’s brilliant ideas and storytelling foundations, while still improving on the elements that eventually weighed the original down. By being more like Stephen King‘s The Long Walk, the Squid Game reboot could become way more than a typical survival thriller.