May 16, 2024
By Rina Tishuk
Staff Writer
In the dramatic five-episode limited series “Deliver Me,” two teenage best friends Bilal ‘Billy’ Ali (Yasir Hassan) and Douglas ‘Dogge’ Arnfeldt (Olle Strand) are recruited by Mehdi Bah (Solomon Njie), a gang leader known for recruiting minors. They are quickly forced to face a violent world from which they are too young to protect themselves.
The show, which takes place in Stockholm, Sweden, is based on Swedish author Malin Persson Giolito’s novel of the same name. It is available for streaming in its original Swedish language and is dubbed in English.
“Deliver Me” wastes no time introducing the conflict, with the first scene showing Dogge on the run and a 911 call revealing that a shooting has occurred. Police detective Farid Ayad (Ardalan Esmaili) arrives at the scene where his colleague Lana (Beri Gerwise) tells him Billy has been shot. He is taken to the hospital, where he dies.
The acting is so authentic that viewers feel like they’re witnessing real-life events. “Deliver Me” vividly portrays the harsh realities children often endure when lack of love at home drives them to seek attention through unhealthy habits.
Initially, Dogge is an unlikable character, but as the show unfolds, it becomes easier for viewers to empathize with him. He, sadly, had no choice but to kill Billy since Billy decided to leave the gang a few months prior, which frustrated Mehdi and led Dogge to shoot him.
The acting is so authentic that viewers feel like they’re witnessing real-life events. “Deliver Me” vividly portrays the harsh realities children often endure when lack of love at home drives them to seek attention through unhealthy habits.
What sets “Deliver Me” apart from other shows in the same genre is its unique storytelling approach.
The flashbacks throughout the episodes not only propel the plot forward but provide insight into Dogge and Billy’s friendship. Although their friendship ended tragically, the flashbacks reveal that they never failed to be there for each other.
In one flashback, Dogge and Billy are being beaten up by the gang. Throughout this scene, they stare at each other for reassurance. This moment speaks volumes about the strength of their bond and their care for each other. However, their fear of Mehdi is stronger.
“Deliver Me” depicts the complexity of life and lays out questions about ethics.
Since it only has five episodes ranging from 38-48 minutes, “Deliver Me” is perfect for binge-watching. It is a must-watch for viewers who like fast-paced shows with compelling plots and complex characters.
