Why do Netflix’s Korean films keep disappointing viewers?

Netflix’s Korean original films are facing a slump, as several highly anticipated releases have failed to meet expectations, drawing mixed reviews despite their large-scale productions, star-studded casting and ambitious storytelling. The latest example is “The Great Flood,” released on Dec. 19, which follows people fighting for survival inside a flooded apartment building after a catastrophic disaster. Marketed as a disaster blockbuster that blends science fiction elements with Korean sentiment, the movie shot to the top of Netflix’s global film rankings immediately after release but reactions have since split sharply. Critics say the film suffers from poorly connected plot devices, a weak link between its scenario and artificial intelligence concept, unbalanced character dynamics and an overly complicated narrative. The criticism adds to a series of recent disappointments. Other Netflix Korean originals released this year including “The Mantis,” “Love Untangled” and “Wall to Wall” briefly climbed the rankings before quickly fading from view. Though each film diffe