Run for the Money (2022)

Exciting from start to end

I had not a great day at work and was looking for something entertaining. I checked Netflix, saw Run for the Money: Battle Royal on the home page, and ignored it. About an hour later I saw it again. I thought that Japanese guy looks just like Choi Min Ho. Turns out that Japanese wasn't Japanese, but it was Minho. I know about Minho's competitive streak and athleticism from his many guest appearances on Running Man so I decided to watch the trailer. Next thing I know I'm at the end of episode 1. Three hours after that, I'm done.

RFTM reminded me of an American reality show from about 10 years ago, that wasn't half as exciting. The concept was 29 celebrities are hunted for 3 hours or until they are all put in jail Each minute they remain uncaught money drops in the pot. They can win up to 5.04 million yen which is roughly $35,000 USD. Not bad for 3 hours work. They have timed missions which can help them add money quicker and lower the amount of hunters. Besides being physical, it's a psychological game. Who can be trusted? Who will betray? In some aspects it's a lot how Running Man used to be.

Over the years I've seen a few Japanese game/variety shows. I rarely stick with them. But this ...I would watch again. The short form made it more urgent. Also, the celebs were entertaining. It was obvious that being in front of the camera was nothing new to any of them. I'd seen a few of the actors and idols (well, I've heard songs by JO1). They were all entertaining and easy to like , even the Youtubers (ganbarre JinJin! "Run Kuro-san!"). I found myself rooting for quite a few by the end. I wish a few had more screen time, but like I said there was 29 of them. Many are dispatched rather quickly. The camera work and editing are extremely well done as is the video quality. Oh and the hunters, nothing to sneeze at. I really wish they had been unmasked at the end. Anyone that can run in dress shoes as fast as they were gets respect!

The music added to the tension. I know the outcome of everything, but if in the need of something amusing and competitive I wouldn't hesitate to re-watch RFTM. That's a a lot coming from me because I really don't re-watch.

Run For The Money is fast paced and marathon worthy. With only 4 - 60 minutes episodes, there's really nothing to lose.

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