Netflix's latest sci-fi thriller, Human Vapor, has captivated audiences just days after its release, with fans calling it a must-watch series that deserves as much attention as the platform's recent Harlan Coben adaptations. Despite not yet cracking the top 10 most-watched series on Netflix, those who have binged the eight-episode show insist it merits recognition.
What is Human Vapor About?
The series, a collaboration between Japanese and Korean creatives, reimagines Toho's iconic 1960 film of the same title with a fresh original narrative. The synopsis reveals that when a guest commentator swells and explodes during a live television broadcast in an unprecedented crime, the world is plunged into shock. Orchestrating this horrific murder is a figure who appears to vanish without trace: the Human Vapor. With nobody able to determine his true identity, this mysterious individual proceeds to announce and carry out a succession of targeted assassinations, evading identification and intensifying nationwide terror with each baffling attack.
Creative Team Behind the Series
The series was penned by Yeon Sang-ho, who also acted as showrunner. Yeon previously created the cult hit Train to Busan. The streaming giant describes the production as a collaboration between leading Japanese and Korean creatives, uniting to reimagine the classic film.
Fan Reactions and Ratings
While Human Vapor hasn't garnered as many reviews as another recently launched thriller, the latest Harlan Coben series I Will Find You, it holds a slightly superior rating on IMDb. It has yet to accumulate sufficient professional critiques to receive a Rotten Tomatoes score. Nevertheless, fans have immediately praised it and encouraged others to give it a watch. One viewer posted on the Netflix subreddit: 'I just completed this series! Absolute gem of a series. I am amazed to see literally no one mentioning this! It is rare to get this good of a series. Got too hooked and binged it in one night.'
They continued: 'It was solid from start to finish. Every department has done a solid job on their work (acting, VFX, music, cinematography etc). There is literally no bad episode in this one. All 8 episodes are just that good. My favourite is definitely ep 2 (10/10). Guys give this a try, you won't be disappointed. A solid - 9/10 from my side. Close to perfection.'
Another viewer concurred, sharing: 'Absolutely phenomenal, one of best in this year! Human Vapor was riveting! This conspiracy mystery thriller had substantive depth and it featured nuanced complicated characters. What an excellent cross collaboration of Korean and Japanese creative minds. One of my favourite new shows of the year. I really hope Netflix keeps doing collaboration with Toho and makes more bangers like this one!'
Human Vapor is streaming on Netflix.
