This is something I’ve noticed recently on Netflix — a recurring phenomenon that also stands out in Season 2. Real life is metaphorically depicted. This show does the same. Those who initially plead “don’t kill us” are the same ones who, once they see the money, swear to kill the opposing team. A man who simply wants to live his own life, to become a woman — a trans individual — displays a strong sense of masculinity when things regress to Maslow’s first level. It beautifully portrays how people, throughout their lives, build new layers, but once the plot boils down to survival and self-interest, those layers get stripped away.
It also reminds us of an unfortunate truth — money is often more important than human life. The world is a dark place, and we need to acknowledge that. Systems of “kill to survive” and “you’re either the hunter or the prey” still operate globally, even if the methods have evolved.
Aside from that, the show uses the journey of a character trying to change the system as a metaphor for anarchy. But just like in the real world, there’s an undeniable truth — some people are simply born with advantages due to family and financial background, and this cycle continues. Yes, there are many cases where someone born into poverty becomes rich, but it usually doesn’t last long. Even if the system seems to shift for 100–200 years, in the long run, it’s an unbreakable structure. The collapse of the capitalist system seems nearly impossible, and unfortunately, people live within the limits of their family conditions and environment. Rising above that is rarely possible.
Another point that caught my attention was how the show highlighted an LGBT character with emotional depth. It was refreshing to see Netflix shift its perspective in this production, rather than pushing constant LGBT propaganda as they often do.
Finally, the metaphors of civil war and revolution were also used effectively. The line “You are not my enemy” serves as a powerful example of the revolution metaphor.