‘Physical: 100’ Influenced by ‘Squid Game’? PD Reveals Reason for Creating the Netflix Show
"Physical: 100" PD Jang Ho Gi spoke about his thoughts production of the hottest survival competition of 2023 after the Netflix tv show gained the attention of viewers.
Besides sparking curiosity among local viewers, the nine-part episode show is a huge hit globally after enting Netflix's top 10 worldwide tv shows.
In a report cited by Flix Patrol, a streaming data aggregator platform, "Physical: 100" is currently in fifth place, topping countries like Hong Kong, Kuwait, Singapore, South Korea, Qatar, and New Zealand.
Moreover, netizens are also hyping up the participants on social, showing the popularity of the show's fan favorites.
In a report obtained by a media outlet, PD Jang spoke about the details during the pre-production and also address how it was similar to the hit Netflix series "Squid Game."
PD Jang Ho Gi Shares Thoughts on 'Physical: 100' Being Labeled as the Real-Life 'Squid Game'
"Physical: 100" made its debut on January 24 and has been receiving positive reactions from viewers.
Seeing the intense, and thrilling challenges, others call it as a real-life "Squid Game."
In an article cited by the British daily newspaper, The Guardian, the Netflix show is deemed as "Squid Game meets Gladiators" noting that the "challenges are grueling" while the participants were "near-superhuman" adding that the show itself "looks like a dystopian thriller."
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While some compared it to the Lee Jung Jae starred K-drama, PD Jang revealed that he "planned it before watching Squid Game."
As for the concept behind "Phyisical: 100," he shared that he wanted to highlight the strength of humans
"Physical:100" is about human strength," he said, adding "I wanted to try something new rather than categorizing it into a specific topic."
Moreover, he sees Netflix as "a big stage" for a director and wanted to "challenge myself" by creating an interesting concept.
PD Jang on the Massive Success of 'Physical: 100'
Besides sharing the inspiration behind the survival tv show, the producing director also discussed the overwhelming support that the show has been receiving since the pilot episode.
He confessed that before the show's premiere, he was "nervous and anxious" about how the international viewers will perceive it.
"I am grateful that I got good results, such as being in the top 10," he added.
In addition, BTS' Jungkook also gave the show a major boost after he shared in his livestream that he is also watching the show.
The Netflix reality show features 100 participants from different fields as they battle out and survive the grueling challenges.
"Physical: 100" cast includes professional athletes, soldiers, YouTubers, fitness enthusiasts, and more.
Interestingly, the show offers 300 million won or about 250,000 USD as a cash prize for the "final physique standing."
