Overall Rating: A-
Embark on a captivating journey through time and destiny with “Faith,” also known as “The Great Doctor” (신의). This South Korean drama blends historical fiction with fantasy, creating a unique viewing experience that has garnered a dedicated fanbase. While some viewers have noted minor subtitle inconsistencies, the compelling storyline and stellar performances more than compensate, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of K-dramas, especially those who appreciate historical settings with a twist. Available for streaming on Viki, “Faith” invites you into a world where ancient Korea meets modern-day Seoul in an unforgettable fashion.
**Full show spoilers below. Proceed with caution if you wish to avoid spoilers.**
Image: A promotional poster for the Korean drama “Faith” featuring Lee Min Ho and Kim Hee Seon, highlighting the historical and fantasy elements of the series.
Ending and Reunion:
“Faith” delivers a satisfying happy ending, though some viewers might crave a slightly extended epilogue to fully relish the protagonists’ reunion. The conclusion leaves a warm feeling, affirming the enduring power of destiny and connection.
Character Deep Dive:
The drama is anchored by the exceptional performances of its lead actors:
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Choi Young (Lee Min Ho): Stepping away from his typical roles, Lee Min Ho embodies General Choi Young with depth and gravitas. A warrior of unwavering loyalty, haunted by his past, and guided by a strong moral compass, Choi Young is the quintessential hero. His seriousness is balanced by moments of unexpected humor, particularly his penchant for sleep, making him a relatable and compelling lead.
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Yoo Eun Soo (Kim Hee Seon): Kim Hee Seon portrays Yoo Eun Soo, a modern-day plastic surgeon who is unexpectedly transported to the Goryeo era. Eun Soo is the perfect foil to Choi Young’s stoicism. Her initial fish-out-of-water reactions evolve into resilience and resourcefulness. Despite being thrust into dangerous political intrigues and life-threatening situations, her intelligence and adaptability shine through. She brings a breath of fresh air and contemporary sensibility to the historical setting, making her journey all the more engaging.
The supporting cast, while slightly less developed than the leads, still contributes to the narrative:
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Queen Noguk (Park Se Young) & King Gongmin (Ryu Deok Hwan): Their storyline offers a glimpse into royal dynamics and political struggles. The bromance between King Gongmin and Choi Young stands out, adding emotional depth. King Gongmin’s character arc, though initially portraying him as weak, shows growth and maturity, albeit after a prolonged period of instability. Queen Noguk is depicted as gentle yet strong, though her character could have benefited from further exploration.
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Ki Cheol (Yu Oh Seong): The antagonist Ki Cheol evolves from a power-hungry villain to a more complex character driven by a desire to transcend worlds. His supernatural abilities, shared with Choi Young and a select few, add a mystical layer to the conflict, although the origins and nature of these powers remain somewhat unexplained.
Relationships and Dynamics:
“Faith” excels in portraying various relationships:
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Queen Noguk & Doctor Eun Soo: This unexpected female friendship is a highlight. Two women from different centuries find common ground and offer each other support and protection, showcasing a beautiful bond beyond time.
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King Gongmin & Queen Noguk: Their romance develops from a strained political alliance to genuine affection. The King’s initial coldness gives way to love and respect, and their evolving relationship becomes a poignant subplot, especially when they face political pressures that test their bond.
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King Gongmin & General Choi Young: A standout bromance, this relationship evolves from royal command to mutual respect and camaraderie. Their interactions, though lacking in overt humor, are filled with sincerity and loyalty, adding a layer of emotional resonance to the drama.
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General Choi Young & Eun Soo: The central romance is carefully developed. Starting from Choi Young’s initial “kidnapping” of Eun Soo to their growing reliance and affection, their relationship is built on loyalty and mutual respect. Eun Soo’s vibrant personality brings life to Choi Young’s serious world, while his unwavering protectiveness offers her security in a dangerous era. Their devotion is palpable, making their eventual reunion deeply satisfying, even if viewers might debate the practicality of Eun Soo leaving her modern life behind.
Strengths of “Faith”:
- Lee Min Ho’s Transformation: Witnessing Lee Min Ho in a role that diverges from his usual persona is a major draw. His portrayal of General Choi Young is both powerful and nuanced.
- Intriguing Time Travel Concept: The drama handles the time travel element with consistency and creativity, adding a layer of fantasy that enhances the historical narrative.
- Positive Relationships: The emphasis on supportive friendships and deep romantic bonds adds emotional richness and relatability to the story.
- Eun Soo’s Adaptation: Similar to “Outlander,” the drama realistically portrays Eun Soo’s journey as a modern individual navigating the challenges of the past, showcasing her resilience and intelligence.
Areas for Potential Improvement:
- Tone Balance: While the serious tone contributes to the drama’s intensity, injecting more levity could have broadened its appeal and prevented it from feeling slightly melancholic at times. A touch more humor might have elevated it from a good drama to an unforgettable one for some viewers.
Final Thoughts:
“Faith: The Great Doctor” is a highly enjoyable K-drama that successfully blends historical drama with fantasy and romance. While it might not reach the level of a flawless masterpiece, its strengths in character development, relationship dynamics, and engaging plot make it a recommended watch. For those seeking a drama with depth, compelling performances, and a touch of the extraordinary, “Faith” will not disappoint.
