Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Offbeat K-drama has murder, sex, social commentary.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Mask Girl
What's the Story?
Based on a popular webtoon, MASK GIRL is a K-drama about an insecure young woman who finds herself in a web of murder and reinvention after becoming an internet sensation. As a child, Kim Mo-mi (Lee Han-byeol) wanted to be in the spotlight as dance star, but as she got older she was considered too unattractive to pursue her dream. Now the 27-year-old quietly works in an office during the day, but dons a mask and dances in front of a webcam for adoring internet fans at night. But being a successful "camgirl" doesn't make up for the dissatisfaction Kim feels, and eventually her online persona collides with her real world in ways that cause her life to spiral down a dark and violent path.
Is It Any Good?
Smart and well-produced, the offbeat Korean satire offers some sharp commentary about the way society thinks about beauty, and the objectification and commodification of women. Kim Mo-mi's journey in Mask Girl is a bizarre and violent tale of reinvention and revenge that takes three actresses (Lee Han-byeol, Nana, and Go Hyun-jung) to tell it. But her story is also told from other cast member's point of view, creating a multiperspective narrative that's suspenseful and intriguing. Some folks may find it disjointed at first, but the overall series comes together and becomes easy to get caught up in.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the role media has in creating or reinforcing sexist beauty conventions. How does it affect the way women (and men) feel about themselves and their bodies? How can use media to challenge these standards?
What is the social commentary being offered about sexism and looks in Mask Girl? Are these messages universal, or do they apply mainly to Korean society and culture?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 18, 2023
- Cast : Lee Han-byu , Go Hyun-jung , 'Nana' Im Jin Ah
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Drama
- TV rating :
- Last updated : February 27, 2024
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