Alice in Borderland: Netflix’s most underrated series
On an ordinary day in my routine, I stumbled upon scenes of extremely charismatic characters in my Instagram feed. While social media tends to bombard us with random content based on algorithms and our consumption patterns, these characters were unlike any I had seen before. I was immediately drawn to the girl in the blue bikini with dreadlocks in her hair, and couldn’t help but wonder about the character with blond hair and a cold, apathetic demeanor in the face of danger. Intrigued, I decided to research who these people were, only to discover that they were characters from a Japanese series called “Alice in Borderland”.
As part of my job to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the audiovisual scene, I am extremely grateful to Instagram for indirectly introducing me to the series.
So, I embarked on the lethal and deadly games of the “Alice in Borderland” series and, within one week, I finished both seasons. I was thoroughly impressed with the series, as it speaks to more than just entertainment — it delves into our lives and our sense of purpose in our daily existence.
If you have never watched the series and are unfamiliar with the plot, here’s a quick synopsis: “Alice in Borderland” is a Japanese science-fiction thriller series that follows the story of Arisu (played by Kento Yamazaki), a young man who, along with his friends Karube and Chota, suddenly finds himself transported to a parallel world where they must compete in dangerous and deadly games to survive. The rules of the games are determined by mysterious cards that they must draw, and the consequences of losing are fatal. As they struggle to navigate this new reality and uncover the truth behind their situation, they encounter other players who are also fighting to survive. With each game becoming increasingly more difficult and deadly, Arisu and his friends must rely on their wit and skills to stay alive and unravel the mysteries of this dangerous world.
I must confess, when I read the synopsis, I was taken aback. At first, I wrongly assumed that “Alice in Borderland” was inspired by the recent success of “Squid Game”, but in fact, the series predates it, originating from a successful manga written by Haro Aso.
I won’t spoil you here, I won’t even narrate each episode for you, after all, I want you to have your own experience with the series. BUT, I can say that From the first episode, the series manages to pull you into a world of danger and suspense, leaving you breathless at every turn. The characters are complex, with each having their own struggles and motivations that drive the story forward. The series explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the human condition in the face of adversity, all the while keeping you on the edge of your seat. The visuals are stunning, with Tokyo serving as a beautiful backdrop for the deadly games that the characters must endure. Overall, “Alice in Borderland” is an intense and breathtaking adventure that is not to be missed.
Now, with that being said, let’s dive into the highlights of this incredible drama and explore why “Alice in Borderland” is one of Netflix’s most underrated series.
Characters
One of the things that sets “Alice in Borderland” apart from other series is its unique and complex characters. Unlike many shows where characters can be one-dimensional and predictable, each character in “Alice in Borderland” is multifaceted, with their own motivations, fears, and weaknesses.
Take for example Karube, a seemingly tough and fearless character who is revealed to have a softer side and a deep sense of loyalty to his friends. His loyalty is put to the test by fire in one of the games, which shows that, faced with the possibility of death, that insane and cruel universe forces us to put our hearts on a scale and prove our worth.
Then there’s Chishiya, who initially comes off as aloof and cold, but as the series progresses, we learn more about his past and the reasons behind his behavior. In the end, he too has to put himself through a trial by fire and face his failures and mistakes.
Or, we can talk about Tatta, the shy guy, is not the first person you would expect to stand out in the deadly games. However, as the series progresses, we see that Tata has a hidden strength and courage that lies beneath his shy exterior. Tata’s character arc is a testament to the idea that true heroism can come from unexpected places, and that even the quietest voices can have a powerful impact.
Alice in Borderland has a unique talent for making us care about even the most loathsome characters, such as Niragi. This militant serves as a powerful example of how a traumatic past can warp a person, without necessarily making them any more compassionate. Niragi’s hatred and anger fuel him through his time in Borderland, making him a formidable survivor.
Each character is faced with their own set of challenges in the games they play, forcing them to confront their weaknesses and questions about themselves. We can write a whole special post dedicated to each character, since, with them, we can learn a lot about the plot twist that we all have at some point in life in the face of challenges that challenge our nature and triggers imposed by society.
The philosophy behind borderland
What is most magnificent about the series is the fact that it is not about dangers, blood and challenges… but about life.
The primordial question of every human being is: Who are we? Where are we going? What is the meaning of life?
Perhaps, we will never have such answers, but one thing we know: Life is a game, and we must enjoy it intensely, enjoying our journey.
The characters are thrown into a situation where they must face challenges and make life-or-death decisions to survive. This metaphorical representation of life is used to make viewers question the value of their own lives and how they choose to live them.
Each game in Alice in Borderland has a different theme and purpose, but they all revolve around the idea of survival. The characters must confront their own weaknesses and motivations to succeed in these games. The stakes are high, and failure means death. This puts the characters in a position where they must either face their challenges head-on or give up and accept their fate. Those who manage to face their fears do not give up. At the same time, those who are grateful for life are not afraid of death.
Through the characters’ experiences, the series also raises questions about what it means to be grateful for life. Is it enough to simply survive, or should one strive for something more? Should one be content with what they have or continue to pursue their dreams and aspirations, even in the face of danger?
Alice in Borderland explores the concept that life is like a game. How do we approach the game of life? Is it about winning, losing, or simply enjoying the experience?
The idea of “live your life to the fullest until the very end” is also a powerful reminder that life is finite, and we should cherish each moment as it comes. In a way, the games in Alice in Borderland can be seen as a metaphor for the challenges we face in life, and how we choose to approach them. Do we want to survive at all costs, or do we want to find meaning and purpose in our struggles?
Ultimately, the series raises important questions about the meaning of life and the human condition. It challenges us to consider what is truly important in life, and how we can find happiness and fulfillment in the midst of adversity.
Breathtaking games — literally
It’s no joke — the games in Alice in Borderland are so intense that they can leave you breathless. The challenges are meticulously crafted, with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. The way the games are written and staged is so convincing that we often forget that it’s just a show. We find ourselves feeling the same emotions as the characters — the tension, confusion, despair, and even physical pain. It’s a testament to the incredible acting and storytelling that the series is able to create such a visceral experience for the audience.
The games in Alice in Borderland are like a rollercoaster ride that never stops. But what sets them apart from other games is the way they challenge not just the characters, but also the viewers. As we watch the games unfold, we can’t help but question our own morality and the value we place on life. Is it worth sacrificing others to survive? Or do we find meaning in the struggle for survival, even if it means risking everything?
The games are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the writers and directors. They take familiar concepts and elevate them to new heights, creating a truly unique and thrilling experience. And the attention to detail is impeccable — every game is meticulously crafted with its own set of rules, challenges, and consequences.
THE JACK OF HEARTS GAME
Alright, let’s talk about one of the coolest games in Alice in Borderland, the Jack of Hearts! You can find this game in the third and fourth episodes of the second season, and it’s called “Solitary Confinement.” Now, the difficulty of the game is determined by the suit and type of card, and the Jack of Hearts is no joke.
In this game, players are sent to Teio Prison and equipped with explosive collars. The goal is to guess the suit on the back of your collar, but here’s the catch: you can’t look at your own symbol! Even using a reflective surface is a no-go, as it’ll result in a game over. You have an hour per round to roam around and talk to your competitors, but you need to make sure to guess correctly at the end of each round.
If you fail to guess or get it wrong, BOOM — game over. But here’s where it gets even crazier: if the player with the Jack of Hearts dies, everyone else clears the game! It’s a thrilling game of survival that perfectly captures the essence of Alice in Borderland’s wild premises.
THE WITCH HUNT GAME
Now, let me tell you about the epic Ten of Hearts, aka the Witch Hunt game. The game started with poor Momoka’s body being found in the lobby, and she had been killed by a wicked witch. Talk about a rough day!
The Beach’s residents were then given the task of burning the suspected witch at the Fire of Judgement, but here’s the kicker — they were allowed to kill each other too! As you can imagine, things quickly spiraled out of control, and the once thriving community turned on each other faster than a pack of rabid dogs.
To make matters worse, The Beach’s military forces instilled fear into the remaining survivors, causing distrust and chaos to run rampant. Innocent people were thrown into the fire left and right, and nobody felt safe. It was like a scene straight out of a horror movie.
But here’s the plot twist — the witch was actually Momoka herself! All the players needed to do to clear the game was to burn her body and move on to the Second Stage. Crazy, right? Alice in Borderland always keeps you on your toes.
THE KING OF SPADES
You know who you don’t want to mess with in Alice in Borderland? The King of Spades. This guy is a total mercenary and his game is all about going on a massive shooting spree to take out as many players as he possibly can. Sounds fun, right? Except that you’re the one he’s shooting at!
Defeating the King of Spades is the goal, but he’s not exactly an easy target. The guy’s got endless ammo and a serious talent for marksmanship. He’s the kind of villain who keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering if you’ll make it through the game alive.
In my opinion, this was the most agonizing game in the entire series. Tears escaped my eyes — no kidding.
AMAZING CASTING
The casting of Alice In Borderland is truly remarkable, as each actor brings their own unique energy and personality to their respective roles.
Kento Yamazaki, in particular, shines as Arisu, the quick-witted and resourceful protagonist who is thrust into the dangerous world of Borderland. His performance perfectly captures Arisu’s charisma and determination, and he delivers some truly heart-wrenching moments as he struggles to survive in this brutal game; Yamazaki’s portrayal of Arisu is marked by his theatrical acting style, characterized by his expressive facial and bodily movements. His acting in Alice In Borderland demonstrates his impressive range and dedication to the craft.
Nijiro Murakami’s portrayal of Chishiya is simply outstanding. The actor has managed to bring depth and nuance to his character, making him one of the most compelling characters in the series. Murakami’s performance is a perfect blend of intensity and subtlety, bringing out the conflicted nature of Chishiya’s personality. His use of his eyes deep-expressions are incredibly effective, allowing him to convey a wide range of emotions without saying a single word. Despite not showing too much emotion, Chishiya manages to captivate the audience with his mysterious and enigmatic presence. Murakami brings a subtle intensity to the role that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what his next move will be. It’s no surprise that Chishiya has become a fan favorite, as Murakami’s performance is captivating and nuanced.
Riisa Naka’s portrayal of the Queen of Hearts was truly remarkable. Her performance as the villain was both captivating and chilling. She perfectly embodied the character’s insanity and Machiavellian nature, while also bringing a sense of charisma and theatricality to the role.
Naka’s portrayal of the Queen of Hearts was so convincing that it was easy to forget that she was acting. Her ability to switch between the character’s different personalities, from her calm and collected facade to her explosive and unpredictable moments, was truly impressive.
Dori Sakurada’s portrayal of Niragi was a standout performance. Sakurada’s transformation into the mean and insane Niragi was a notable departure from his previous roles. The character’s vile and gross demeanor was convincingly brought to life by Sakurada, making him both terrifying and fascinating to watch on screen. Niragi allowed him to explore a darker side of his acting abilities. It’s a testament to his talent that he was able to create such a detestable character that was still compelling to watch.
Overall, Sakurada’s performance as Niragi was a standout among the already impressive cast of Alice in Borderland. His commitment to the character’s disgusting behavior and mannerisms was a testament to his dedication to his craft as an actor.
Sho Aoyagi’s portrayal of Aguni is nothing short of impressive. Aguni is a character who is tough as nails, fiercely independent, and an expert in combat. Sho brings a level of intensity and physicality to the role that makes him convincing as a fighter, as well as a nuanced performer who can convey emotion and vulnerability when needed. Despite his gruff exterior, Aguni has a lot of depth as a character, and Sho does an excellent job of bringing this complexity to the screen. He has a commanding presence that makes him a force to be reckoned with, but also shows us glimpses of his inner turmoil and pain.
Aya Asahina’s portrayal of Kuina Hikari is…beautiful. Kuina is not only a fan favorite character, but also a groundbreaking one as a trans character in mainstream media. Asahina’s acting showcases the complexity of Kuina’s character, who is not only a skilled fighter but also struggles with her relationship with her parents and her own identity. Asahina brings a depth of emotion and authenticity to the role, allowing audiences to connect with Kuina on a personal level. Her performance is a testament to the importance of diverse representation in media and the talent of Asahina as an actress.
Tomohisa Yamashita’s acting as Kyuma in Alice in Borderland was exceptional, particularly for his bravery in doing nude scenes. He was able to portray the character’s charisma, making the audience love him. Despite being a ``villain`` as the “King of Clubs,” his portrayal was so convincing that viewers were saddened by his demise. Yamashita’s acting was a testament to his versatility as an actor, and his portrayal of Kyuma was a significant highlight of the series.
UNDERRATED?
There are several reasons why Alice in Borderland may be considered underrated compared to other popular shows. Firstly, the series is a Japanese production and may not have received as much promotion or attention in Western countries as shows produced in the United States or other English-speaking countries.
Secondly, the show’s level of violence and dark themes may not appeal to all viewers. Alice in Borderland features intense scenes of death and gore, as well as exploration of heavy topics such as isolation, trauma, and existentialism. While these elements make for a thrilling and thought-provoking viewing experience, they may not be suitable for all audiences. As we know, unfortunately, ``empty things`` often seem to please the ``mass audience`` more.
Finally, the show’s release timing may have impacted its popularity. Alice in Borderland was released on Netflix in December 2020, shortly after the massive success of the Korean series Squid Game. As a result, it may have been overshadowed by the hype and attention surrounding Squid Game.
Despite these factors, Alice in Borderland has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its gripping storyline, strong performances, and stunning visuals. It is a must-watch for fans of the thriller and sci-fi genres, and it deserves more recognition for its quality and impact.
And with that, we have reached the end of our Alice in Borderland journey. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just someone looking for a thrilling adventure, this series has something for everyone. The characters are a motley crew of misfits, villains, and heroes, each with their own unique quirks and personalities that will leave you rooting for them until the very end.
The series is a wild ride of suspense, action, and drama, accompanied by a killer soundtrack and breathtaking visuals. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you on the edge of your seat, gasping for air, and screaming for more.
Overall, Alice in Borderland is a true masterpiece that showcases the talent and creativity of Japanese audiovisual. It’s a series that will make you cry and cheer, and will leave a lasting impression on you for a long time to come. So buckle up, get ready to enter the Borderland, and let the games begin!
