A few things here. First is that it’s a Japanese based show which tend to be a little more dramatic than American shows. But more to it, Americans are far less likely to talk about their emotions. When you have people constantly open up and dramatic, it’s strange.

Also using flashbacks as a tool for characterization isn’t a new thing, especially when a set of characters are transported to a new place. Lost did this very effectively with half the show essentially being flashbacks.

Finally, this show is also different than battle Royale or squid game. The material it’s based off of came out before squid game. But while squid game is a critique on class, Alice in borderland explores themes of humanity and mortality.