Since it’s release, Netflix’s dystopian drama “Squid Game” has quickly become one of the most talked about TV shows around the world.

I went into the show expecting another TikTok trendy series, decent enough to where I wouldn’t want to click away but nothing of note. Boy was I wrong- “Squid Game”  has an intriguing plot and is wrought with moments that had me biting my nails and covering my eyes. Cliffhangers and plot twists at every turn had me coming back again and again to binge the one hour episodes.

Since it’s release only a few weeks ago, the Netflix original has quickly shot to the top, becoming the most watched show on the streaming service in 90 countries. Not only has the Korean drama dominated the charts, the series has become an internet sensation.

It’s no wonder the show’s rise to popularity happened so fast, as new TikTok trends and memes inspired by the episodes have gone viral these past weeks. Despite its mature rating and unrelenting violence, “Squid Game” has received outstanding reviews from critics and audience members alike.

The new Korean drama follows a group of indebted contestants who are gathered to compete in children’s games for the chance of receiving a life-changing sum of money. Not long into the first challenge- a game of red light, green light- do the players realize the stakes are deadly. The show has scenes I couldn’t look away at, and characters so lovable I grieved their death in real time. One of the most memorable episodes to me, episode six, delivered a heart-wrenching and gut-punching performance with impeccable acting that had me believing every second. Netflix’s “Squid Game” delivers a shocking story full of plot twists and suspense, bound to leave viewers racing to the next episode.

Netflix showed me an astounding script complemented by remarkable acting, while illustrating the complex nature of the human condition when faced with the challenge of survival. Past the brutal nature of the show, “Squid Game” provided a jarring commentary on capitalistic society and the greed that accompanies it.

Wrought with emotion and action, its no doubt “Squid Game” will be the show of the year.