For those yet to dive into the captivating world of K-dramas, prepare to be amazed. Korean TV dramas offer a unique viewing experience, with episodes stretching to an hour or more and typically unfolding within a single season of 16 to 30 episodes. This structure allows for tightly woven narratives, compelling characters, and satisfying conclusions, setting them apart from the often-extended storylines of American television series. If you’re seeking a drama that masterfully blends history, romance, and a touch of the fantastical, look no further than Faith: The Great Doctor.
Set against the backdrop of 14th-century Goryeo, Korea, during the era of Yuan Dynasty influence, Faith: The Great Doctor introduces us to King Gongmin and Queen Noguk as they journey back to their kingdom after years of political maneuvering in China. Escorting them is the Woodalchi, an elite royal guard led by the stoic and battle-hardened Captain Choi Young. Their journey takes a perilous turn when an ambush leaves Queen Noguk critically injured. Desperate, a royal advisor recalls a legend of a mystical gateway to heaven, where a legendary doctor vanished long ago, rumored to possess miraculous healing abilities.
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Seeking this extraordinary healer, Choi Young ventures through the gateway, which astonishingly transports him to modern-day Seoul. This “heaven” is revealed to be a bustling metropolis, and in a stroke of fate, Choi Young stumbles upon a medical convention filled with plastic surgeons. Impressed by her quick thinking and medical expertise during a crisis, he “recruits” Dr. Yoo Eun-soo, a skilled plastic surgeon, to return with him to Goryeo and save the Queen.
While the initial episodes playfully explore the culture clash between modern Seoul and ancient Goryeo, Faith: The Great Doctor quickly evolves beyond the fish-out-of-water trope. The narrative deepens, focusing on the intricate political landscape of the Goryeo court, the threats against the King and Queen, and the burgeoning romance between Choi Young and Yoo Eun-soo amidst the chaos.
Faith: The Great Doctor boasts exceptional production values, akin to a feature film, from its captivating opening episode to its poignant finale. While the pacing may slightly decelerate towards the end, the drama remains intensely character-driven, punctuated by thrilling action sequences. The characters are richly developed; even if initial impressions are mixed, by the 24th episode, they will feel like cherished companions. The subtle use of magic within the storyline adds an intriguing layer without overshadowing the core elements of character development and action.
The series evokes comparisons to Outlander, sharing the premise of a modern woman transported to the past who finds love with a warrior. However, Faith: The Great Doctor distinguishes itself with a more enchanting and tender romantic narrative, prioritizing emotional depth over gratuitous violence.
Initially, Dr. Yoo Eun-soo, portrayed by Kim Hee-seon, might seem somewhat immature for her age. Yet, Kim Hee-seon’s performance grows in nuance and depth, particularly in the latter half of the series, as her character blossoms through her connection with Choi Young. Choi Young, played by the charismatic Lee Min-ho, known for his role in Boys Over Flowers, embodies the stoic warrior burdened by duty. His portrayal of a “faithful servant” is compelling, revealing a soul weary from years of conflict and moral compromises made in service to his rulers. This internal conflict adds a profound layer to his character, resonating with viewers who appreciate nuanced portrayals of duty and sacrifice.
The journey to bring Faith: The Great Doctor to the screen was not without its challenges, facing production delays and changes in lead actors. Lee Min-ho stepped into the role of Choi Young and delivered a remarkable performance. Although slightly younger than initially envisioned for the character, his commanding screen presence and portrayal of a world-weary warrior are undeniably captivating. Ryu Deok-Hwan delivers an equally impressive performance as King Gongmin, capturing the essence of a ruler grappling with power and vulnerability. The dynamic between King Gongmin and Choi Young is a compelling aspect of the drama, arguably as captivating as the central romance. Furthermore, the tender relationship between the King and Queen adds another layer of emotional resonance to the series.
At its heart, Faith: The Great Doctor is a beautiful love story, filled with both humor and deeply touching moments. By the end, you’ll find yourself wholeheartedly invested in the relationship between Yoo Eun-soo and Choi Young, recognizing how they complete each other’s worlds.
Finally, a special acknowledgment to the soundtrack of Faith: The Great Doctor. The main theme is particularly memorable, echoing the grandeur and adventure reminiscent of the Pirates of the Caribbean score, further enhancing the drama’s immersive quality.
