Netflix's latest k-drama 'genius: make a wish' stares back on the alleged misrepresentation of Islamic beliefs

Netflix’s new fantasy k-drama ‘genius: make a wish’ came under intense criticism after its release, with viewers accusing the show of not respecting Islamic teachings and misrepresenting religious concepts. The controversy broke out shortly after the series was promoted, with many users on social media asking for a boycott. Reactions on social media ‘genius: make a wish’ The series, which centers around a mystical creature that gives wishes to a human protagonist, has been accused of having Iblis ‘romanticization’ – a figure in Islam related to the ultimate evil. Several viewers announced the use of the term of the show, claiming that it distorts the deep religious meaning for entertainment. One user wrote: “Barely 2 minutes after #Geniemakeeawish and I am supposed to sit through this. Why would they on earth take the entire IBLIS concept directly from Islam? Another message reads: “For all Muslims: a new k-drama genius, make a wish crossed the line. Coranic words turned.” Iblis’ romanticized. While the majority of reactions were critical, a few viewers tried to clarify the confusion. One user noted: “Since it is a complicated topic, but I would say IBlis & Genie is two different creatures. Iblis cannot give human wishes and not live in a lamp. Genie does not want to damage people and is created to serve people (sic).” Others have criticized Netflix for what they see as a pattern of cultural insensitivity. “I stopped watching K-dramas years ago BCZ. Social media is constantly flooding with reactions, with one comment summarizing the sentiment: “Look genius make a wish ep 1 without knowing the intrigue and controversies, and it’s really … bad … and as a Muslim, I’m really going out, because what the writer is? My religion is not your costume (sic).” Neither Netflix nor the program’s production team issued another official statement addressing the growing setback. However, the reception of the series has already elicited a greater debate on the portrayal of religion and cultural symbols in mainstream entertainment – and where the line must be drawn between creative freedom and cultural respect.