Theworlds most iconic board gameis getting a makeover reality TV style.
Netflix has officially secured the rights to turnMonopolyinto a massive reality competition.
Monopolypromises something entirely different.
Custom Image by Annamaria Ward
A month later, it was confirmedNetflix was the lucky winner.
The DunKings not-so-Happy Meal.
Netflix is known to go big with its production sets, so anentire mansion or hotel takeover is possible.
Image via Flickr
The inclusion ofCommunity Chest and Chance-like cardsalso seems likely, adding unexpected twists to the play.
A TV adaptation isnt the onlyMonopolyrevamp in the works.
Even before Netflix’s announcement, it was reported that afeature film is also underway.
That means not only is Netflix invested, butHasbro seems on a mission to refeshMonopoloyacross various formats.
Both shows have become hits by turning familiar concepts into social experiments with viral appeal.
Wheel of… theatre?
This is a chance for Netflix to go bigger.
Moreover,Hasbros history of adapting games for screensonly adds to theMonopolycompetitions potential.
The company has been behind multiple game-to-screen transitions,partnering with the likes of Lionsgateand The CW.
For example,Trivial Pursuitwas adapted into a game showa few years ago.
Hosted by LeVar Burton, it blended trivia with a giant, immersive board.
More recently,Scrabblewastransformed into a fast-paced wordplay showhosted byRaven-Symone.
WithMonopoly, we could seeproperty trading, rent collection, and Chance cardstransformed into team-based or individual challenges.
Auctions, negotiations, and betrayals can form the show’s emotional core.
Given its popularity, it’s no surprise thatMonopoly has also been adapted for TV before.
But it hasnt always been successful.
The show tried to stick closely to the board game.
This includes featuring a giant board and trivia-based property acquisition.
Despite the impressive set design, the show struggled to maintain momentum.
It was ultimatelycancelled after 12 episodes.
Hosted byBilly Gardell,the show had flashy visuals and big prizes.
However, it lacked the depth that fans of the game expected.
The connection toMonopolyfelt superficial.
In fact, the show ended up feeling more likeThe Price Is Rightthan one of economic warfare.
Some of the games most iconic features could become major obstacles on television if not handled carefully.
For one,Monopolygames are infamously long.
A single match can last hours, even days.
In television,pacing is everything.
If the reality showdrags or lacks momentum, it risks losing its audience.
In a high-pressure reality environment, wherecontestants may be living together for weeks, that tension could blow.
Sure, thats great for drama, but only if the production team knows how to manage it.
Otherwise, it could be a recipe for disaster.
That could meanlimiting the number of roundsper episode to keep the pacing tight.
Introducing Chance-style game changers could keep the game from feeling predictable and introduce exciting twists.
Its equally important thatNetflix stays faithful to the spiritof the game.
They need to present familiarMonopolyelements in a smart, visually exciting way.
The show will alsoneed impressive production design, considering Monopoly is all about property, power, and excess.
Viewers should feel like theyre watching a battle for wealth unfold on a luxuriousMonopolyboard come to life.
Or, at least it should.
But if any board game is ready for a reality show makeover, it’sMonopoly.
