7.6/10 – IMDb
83% – Rotten Tomatoes
Cast: Tao Tsuchiya, Kento Yamazaki, Nijiro Murakami, Aya Asahina
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Alice in Borderland is a Japanese science fiction thriller series based on the manga of the same name by Haro Aso. It was adapted into a live-action series by Netflix and premiered on December 10, 2020. The show quickly garnered a global audience with its gripping narrative, high-stakes survival games, and intense action sequences.
The story follows Ryohei Arisu, a young man who is aimless and disenchanted with his life in Tokyo. One day, he and his two friends, Chota and Karube, find themselves mysteriously transported to a deserted version of the city. They soon realize they are in a parallel dimension where they must compete in deadly games to survive. Each game is marked by a playing card, with the number and suit indicating the difficulty and type of game. As Arisu navigates this perilous world, he meets other survivors, including the skilled and enigmatic Yuzuha Usagi. Together, they strive to uncover the secrets behind their predicament and find a way back home.
Alice in Borderland explores themes of survival, friendship, and the human psyche under extreme stress. The series excels in its psychological depth, portraying how different characters cope with life-and-death situations. The games themselves are creatively designed, ranging from simple logic puzzles to intense physical challenges, each revealing more about the characters’ inner strengths and vulnerabilities.
The show’s pacing is brisk, with each episode leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. The narrative is tightly woven, ensuring that even the quieter moments contribute to character development or the overarching mystery. Visually, the series is stunning, making excellent use of Tokyo’s landscapes to create an eerie, dystopian atmosphere.
The cast delivers strong performances, with Kento Yamazaki (Arisu) and Tao Tsuchiya (Usagi) standing out. Yamazaki portrays Arisu’s transformation from a listless young man to a determined survivor with nuance and intensity. Tsuchiya’s Usagi is a compelling counterpart, bringing physicality and emotional depth to her role. The supporting cast also shines, adding layers to the complex social dynamics within the game’s world.
Alice in Borderland has been well-received by both audiences and critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the show boasts a high approval rating, with critics praising its thrilling plot, character development, and production quality. On IMDb, it holds a solid rating, reflecting widespread appreciation from viewers globally.
Alice in Borderland is a standout series that combines the best elements of science fiction, thriller, and psychological drama. Its intriguing plot, well-drawn characters, and high production values make it a must-watch. Whether you’re a fan of the original manga or new to the story, this adaptation offers a fresh and exhilarating viewing experience.
~ Subham Mukherjee
