[HanCinema's Drama Preview] "Save Me"

South Korea was shaken quite badly by last year's political scandal and the absurd nature of its cult element has been widely discussed. It is only a matter of time before Dramaland takes a bigger dive into the dark side of religion after occasionally dipping its toes in it and "Save Me" might take that plunge.

Premise

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Four young men struggling to get by in their challenging lives reunite with an old acquaintance who asks for their help. The woman and her family are being held captive by a religious cult. The four young men band together in order to save her and expose the cult's true face.

The Worrying

Lead Actors

The two leads are what originally put me off this series, as my experience with them has been quite negative. While I enjoy Ok Taecyeon and Seo Yea-ji's work choices, both have been barely watchable on the acting scale for me. Admittedly, my experience is limited and I so I hope that both have improved enough to carry what seems like a challenging work.

Unknown Writer/s

With a cast which I cannot yet trust carrying a fresh premise for Korean drama in a channel rarely stepping outside of their crime-related comfort zone, a writer without a track record is yet another worrying unknown. Quite a lot of articles and some databases have two writers on board, but it will be a challenge regardless and I hope they are up for it.

The Reassuring

Cult Theme

The topic of religion's darker underbelly has been rarely featured in Korean drama. The mudang case in "God's Quiz" and the "exorcist" in "Vampire Detective" are two examples. The industry has received pressure from the censorship body acting on complaints from religious groups in the past and so I understand their hesitation. Even so "Save Me" is here, it is fresh and exciting.

Citizen's Arrest

Crime shows often rely on the suspense and action of the chase, which is for the most part handled by law enforcement. This is why most leading characters in such shows are detectives, prosecutors and other members of the law. A series where rescue is the focus and struggling young adults the heroes is a welcome change and frankly a more suspenseful approach.

Closing Thoughts

I always try to curb my expectations when a drama's promotion and premise are exciting. I know better by now, but it is a testament to the quality of that promotion when I struggle and "Save Me" has me struggling. I want this to be good very badly, but I will be prepared for anything.

"Save Me" begins its run on August 5th and will air every Saturday and Sunday at 22:00, on OCN. It is directed by Kim Seong-soo, written by Jeong Sin-gyoo and Jeong I-do-I and features Ok Taecyeon, Seo Yea-ji, Cho Seong-ha and Woo Do-hwan.

Written by: Orion from 'Orion's Ramblings'