The world-renowned surgical team, Savior.
This surgical team, which primarily travels to chaotic third-world countries to provide medical service, occasionally tours various locations in Korea or the U.S., performing difficult surgeries under the condition of receiving hefty donations.
They are, without a doubt, akin to something out of a manga.
Since they feel more like an utopia from a drama, perhaps that’s actually better.
Anyway, because we have to act like such a renowned surgical team, I’ve had some discussions with the director about a few points already.
The main issue is figuring out how to make this surgical team appear truly exceptional.
If they were to actually attempt something like a real surgery, it might be easier for me since I’ve got some experience with suturing and even basic surgery.
Even though these are relatively simple procedures, like stitching up a torn wound, they’ve managed to save a rather pitiful member of New Religion who nearly bled out.
Clearly, I’m fundamentally different from ordinary actors, and it’s quite obvious.
However, the fact that this isn’t real makes it all the more challenging.
It’s almost like there’s nothing substantial to work on.
Hence, according to the points agreed upon with Director Jang Deok-su, I’ve decided to lay out a few key elements.
– Let’s go straight to the surgery.
– Excuse me? You mean we’re heading in right now, but the welcoming ceremony and seminar are…
– Chart analysis is already complete. We have the next surgery soon, so there’s no time to hesitate. How is the patient’s condition?
– Perfectly as per the chart.
– Excellent. Let’s go.
– …Understood. We’ll prepare immediately.
The first point is to act as though we care about nothing but surgery and patients, a my-way approach.
Even though there’s a grand welcoming ceremony prepared for the esteemed guests, we focus solely on seeing the patients first and leaving hastily.
It’s a good setting, if you ask me.
This is how they give off the feel of authenticity.
The structure of the Savior team entering the operating room consists of four members.
Two surgeons (White Siu, Heavenly Yuah), one head nurse (Moon Suyeon), and one anesthesiologist (Nam Hyun-ho).
This team, consisting of these four individuals, saves patients even under the harshest conditions.
As for the appeal of this Savior team, I’d say this:
– Three.
– Direction, two.
– Over.
– Clear.
During surgeries, no matter what emergency arises, they don’t engage in lengthy conversations.
And for most processes, they communicate only through eye contact.
We’re a group of four actors who are adept at setting the atmosphere, so this alone can make things look incredibly convincing.
It’s also a way of showcasing to the audience that after countless surgeries, we’ve all attained a level where verbal communication isn’t necessary.
– Okay, complete. How much time left?
– Limit 22 minutes and 15 seconds. Tight schedule, huh?
– We have until 25 minutes. It’s controllable.
– Let’s aim for 27 minutes.
– Okay, that’ll do. Straight to closing.
The final point is the suturing.
The actual surgery scene can’t be broadcast, so the best we can do for show is make the suturing look impressive.
Suturing with thread, needle, and forceps can look quite convincing depending on how they’re handled.
Both Nana and Heavenly Yuah are wizards with their fingers in this regard, thanks to special practice.
Anyway, this girl’s hands are stunningly beautiful.
It’s incredible how even with surgical gloves on, the elegance doesn’t diminish… hmm.
Regardless, using the thread, needle, and forceps, a spectacular suturing performance is displayed.
Though real doctors might say this stuff isn’t how it’s done, at least to the audience, it looked very professional.
– …This is insane speed.
– Such precision…
And then, the doctors observing from behind make some comments, and that completes the scene.
The rest depends on how Director Jang Deok-su edits it.
I know Director Jang Deok-su, and if he’s given material this good, there’s no way he’d mishandle it.
“Haha, it looks like this will turn out quite well. Thank you so much.”
Director Jang Deok-su, who re-shot the suturing scene a few times, calls out “OK” and then darts over like lightning.
With a grin stretching ear to ear, it seems like a satisfying scene came out.
Here, modestly nodding to gain a bit of favor would be appropriate.
Talking too much would just make it seem weaker anyway.
– …Is my dad going to be okay?
– Yeah, he lived. Soon, you’ll be able to see your dad smiling again.
The child’s head is patted once coolly, and the genius surgeon departs.
The child yells out a question to the departing figure.
– What do you have to do to become a doctor as amazing as you?
– You save people. No matter what, you must save them. That’s all you need to think about. Though, of course, most doctors fail to do that.
– Save, no matter what…
The story goes that this little one, whose father miraculously came back to life, grows up and becomes a remarkable surgeon.
That was all my prepared cameo scene.
As the child yells, declaring that they will definitely grow up to become a doctor like that, I smirk and turn away.
Even to me, it felt quite convincing.
Considering this drama’s potential for high ratings, this cameo appearance could be quite beneficial.
It’s also a small but valuable gain to leave a good impression on Director Jang Deok-su, who will surely continue to rise in the industry.
Right after shooting the joint cameo scene, the next day,
I visited Director Yoo Myung-woo alone.
To consult on the cameo appearance in “Absolute Taste Buds,” and also to say hello after a long time.
Director Yoo Myung-woo is someone I owe quite a bit to.
He was the director of the work I debuted in.
Before I founded my own company, I caused him quite a bit of trouble.
Moreover, he’s the brave one who didn’t even share my contact details with Heavenly Yuah personally, so he deserves proper treatment.
Truthfully, I haven’t really had the chance to properly greet him due to my busy schedule, so I feel a bit guilty.
That’s why this time, I came by to greet him and also brought a gift of apples.
Specifically, a premium ginseng set.
Health is most important at his age, and the premium ginseng set doesn’t have much room for dislike.
“So, why do you have such expensive things?”
“It’s a gift, carrying wishes for your upcoming work to thrive.”
“Since you haven’t said a word until now, I thought something was up. You do have some conscience, I see.”
“Ah, we met at the end-of-year award ceremony, didn’t we? I was in the U.S. during the holidays.”
Indeed, he was a little upset.
If I hadn’t shown up with gifts, he might have felt disappointed.
Looks like visiting someone always with a weighty hand is a good idea.
“So, you’re here for a cameo appearance?”
“Yes, is it okay?”
“Hmm, of course, I welcome it if Actor Baek is appearing.”
“Then that settles it. You’re again working with Writer Min, right?”
“That’s correct. I prefer working with Writer Min, and they like it too.”
It was almost confirmed that I was going to appear in the cameo.
The only question was which character I would portray and what kind of performance I would deliver.
Actually, I had something in mind already.
The moment I thought about appearing as a cameo in Director Yoo’s work, something immediately came to mind, and I thought Director Yoo would like it.
But first, I needed to get permission.
They might have their own ideas, too.
Additionally, I came specifically to explain this in person.
“Do you have anything in mind?”
“I’ll think about it as we go.”
“So, how about this? When I thought about your works, an idea sprang to mind…”
“Go on.”
“Thought about appearing as Elder Yoon.”
“…Elder Yoon?”
This Director Yoo and Writer Min duo is already on their fourth work.
Since all three of their previous works were popular, this duo has gained quite a fan base.
If the viewers who watched Yoon Seo-eun tune in for this drama in masses, the appearance of Elder Yoon will be especially welcomed.
Especially since her recognition has risen significantly after receiving the rookie award last year, this surprise event would surely be covered by media extensively.
Director Yoo was nodding, satisfied.
“Great, Elder Yoon. Didn’t even cross my mind.”
“Since White Siu will likely continue appearing, Elder Yoon won’t, right? I thought the viewers of your drama would be happy to see him.”
“That’s true. You are a fun one, huh.”
Director Yoo explained the various scenes I could appear in, based on the premise of playing Elder Yoon.
He suggested I choose scenes or characters that I liked.
But it was clear which scene I wanted.
Director Yoo was a broadcaster at heart, and broadcasters are, by nature, rather roguish.
“You think this scene fits what Director Yoo has in mind?”
“How’s it?”
“…Of course, it’s possible, but are you okay with it?”
“Well, whatever. It’s just one scene. And my drama isn’t that serious anyway.”
“True, though that’s one thing. But Writer Min…”
“Come on, put it in. There’s an old saying, right? Forgiveness is easier than permission.”
“Ah, I see you’re set on causing trouble.”
“It’s a scene I’ve planned anyway. Though it’s slightly changed.”
“Hmm, yeah, I’m fine.”
The scene Director Yoo requested was quite absurd.
But it seemed to be the kind that would generate some buzz.
There’s no reason for me to pass on this.
The only issue is that Writer Min, who has quite a temper, might not quietly let this pass.
I don’t know how they plan to handle this.
If this causes an upheaval between the two, it’s quite concerning.
Anyway, it’s none of my business…
Looking at it, this Director Yoo guy seems to be somewhat crazy himself.
“Hohoho, hello.”
“Ah! Wow. That really startled me. You’re Actor Baek Siu, right? We heard you’re coming.”
“Haha, yes, nice to meet you.”
“Phew, this look… it’s hard to tell if it’s good or bad?”
“It’s been a long time since I wore this makeup.”
“Director Kim, are you well?”
“I’m fine, thanks. I’ve been following Actor Baek’s well-being through the news.”
“Haha, thank you.”
“Ah, right! News! Actor Baek, is this true? You and Luna and Heavenly Yuah…”
“Ah, not real, right?”
“Aw, that’s too bad. Why isn’t this real?”
After finishing my long-overdue cosplay as Elder Yoon, I arrived on set.
The staff who were around during Yoon Seo-eun seems to be all here.
Crews normally follow the director around, so if it’s a director like Yoo, they stick with him like glue.
Because I’m quite familiar with them, I’m being warmly welcomed.
In the middle of these greetings, a mischievous assistant director brought up some scandals about me.
This one’s a good friend who picked me up personally and became quite close, so it’s reasonable for him to joke like that.
Plus, he seems to genuinely root for romance between good-looking celebrities and feels sorry for them, so that’s nice.
Thus, exchanging greetings with the staff made me feel like I was visiting my hometown.
In this warm atmosphere, I prepared the props needed for my next scene.
The scene I was shooting was an absurd one; something the viewers couldn’t imagine happening during surgery. In such situations, emotion control is essential.
