Unpacking the Significance of Thanos in Squid Game
Hwang Dong-hyuk, the mastermind behind Squid Game, had a compelling rationale for naming a new character Thanos, the infamous figure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This character made his first appearance in season 2, portraying a charming yet naive rapper with a vivid personality.
Each player in Squid Game presents distinct traits and stories; however, Thanos stood out due to his intriguing career background, distinctive hair color, and peculiar name. While some might presume that his name was inspired merely by his purple hair, the reality behind the choice is both thoughtful and strategic.
The Thought Process Behind Thanos’ Name
In an interview with Still Watching Netflix on YouTube, Hwang revealed the true intention behind Thanos’ unusual name. Reacting to various TikTok videos related to his show, he explained that he did not design the character solely for a South Korean audience, but aimed for Thanos to resonate on a global scale:
The reason I named the character Thanos… It doesn’t really suit a rapper as a name, was to design him to be a character fans worldwide could love. But I am so grateful he is getting this much love.
Thanos’ Unique Characterization
As a rapper, it was natural for Thanos to favor using his stage name over more conventional identifiers such as his legal name, Choi Su-bong, or his assigned game number, 230. The choice of a unique name not only differentiates him from typical South Korean names but also ties his character to the popular MCU, potentially increasing his appeal.
Thanos is played by T.O.P. (Choi Seung-hyun), a noted Korean rapper, which adds authenticity to the role. Interestingly, one of Thanos’ standout features is his propensity to speak English frequently. Unlike the affluent VIPs from the first season, whose English is marked by business sophistication, Thanos’ English reflects a desire to integrate into the international community. This adds complexity and vulnerability to his character, highlighting the disparity between power dynamics and personal struggles.
The Impact of Thanos’ Name Choice
The decision to link Thanos to a well-known superhero character proves to be a brilliant narrative strategy. Initially perceived as a ruthless competitor, Thanos reveals a multilayered persona full of compassion and emotional depth. He grapples with personal loss and seeks guidance through supernatural signs, drawing parallels to both the villain from the MCU and his own intricate storyline within Squid Game.
This connection enriches Thanos’ character arc and enhances the overall viewing experience. It goes beyond superficial similarities to explore deeper themes of empathy and moral complexity—an aspect that resonates well with audiences globally.
To delve deeper, you can view the interview on Still Watching Netflix on YouTube.
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