Spoiler Alert: Major Insights into the “Squid Game” Series Finale
If you haven’t watched the finale of "Squid Game" yet, be warned – this article contains significant spoilers! Now streaming on Netflix, the highly anticipated conclusion brings a whirlwind of emotions, especially through the character of Seong Gi-hun, portrayed by Lee Jung-jae. His ultimate sacrifice adds a poignant touch to an otherwise somber finale.
In a recent interview with Variety, Lee shared his thoughts on the finale, his discussions with creator Hwang Dong-hyuk, and his aspirations for Gi-hun’s daughter.
Reflecting on the Finale
Now that the finale is out for everyone to see, Lee Jung-jae acknowledges the mixed reactions from fans. “I believe the ending surprised many viewers, and I’ve been following all the discussions online,” he explained. Social media has been buzzing with varied opinions, and Lee is keen to hear what audiences think.
The Moment of Revelation
When asked about his initial reaction to learning how the series would conclude, Lee revealed, “I received the scripts for Seasons 2 and 3 all at once and read them the same day. I was genuinely shocked by my character’s fate.” He recalled probing Director Hwang about potential alternative endings, to which Hwang admitted he had considered different versions but ultimately felt that the chosen ending was the most fitting for the story.
Importantly, Hwang encouraged Lee to view Gi-hun’s sacrifice not merely as a loss but as a symbol of hope for humanity.
The Power of Gi-hun’s Last Words
One of the most impactful moments in the finale is Gi-hun’s last words, which are deliberately left unfinished. Reflecting on this choice, Lee noted, “Director Hwang and I discussed how the audience would react to Gi-hun’s incomplete sentence. It was designed to allow viewers to interpret the ending in their own way, letting them finish the thought based on their emotions and personal journeys.”
Challenges in Filming
Lee described the final scene as the most challenging to film. “I had been on a strict diet for 14 months leading up to that moment, losing about 10 kilograms to convey Gi-hun’s emotional and physical state,” he shared. The lengthy shooting process added to the difficulty, making the scene all the more crucial and demanding.
Hopes for Gi-hun’s Daughter
Looking ahead, Lee expressed his hopes for Gi-hun’s daughter. “In an ideal world, I’d love to see her take down the entire system behind the games. However, on a personal note, I hope she remains blissfully unaware of her father’s past and can lead a happy, stable life with her family.”
This insightful interview, conducted through an interpreter, has been edited for clarity.
Conclusion
“Squid Game” has left an indelible mark on its audience, and the finale is a testament to the complexity of its characters and themes. As we await further developments in this gripping saga, Lee Jung-jae’s reflections offer a deeper understanding of the narrative’s emotional weight. What are your thoughts on the finale and its implications for the future? Share your opinions in the comments!
