Not to bump up an old thread but I have indeed found the solutions for the issues regarding some saves.
Issue #1: Save not working where the save file contains only the save and the read me:
Solution #1: As previous users have said; Delete game data, reinstall and make sure you do not update. This ensures that the game will be in 1.00 and you'll only be able to play offline.
Issue #2: Save not working where the save file contains the save, another file and the read me:
Solution #2: Load the save editor provided with the save set, go to settings and make sure the Backup and Resources directories lead to the actual folders, go to load and select load from PS3 directory, go to the save you have the issues with within the save set and select the save file (NOT the other file and obviously NOT the read me), double click on the character to open it. In theory just pressing save all slots and closing the save should fix the issues but to be safe add something to the character's inventory like I did. Press save, go back and press save all slots, close save. Copy to PS3 via usb and enjoy
EDIT #1:
The technique of
Solution #2 also allows you to edit the Vendrick save(s) in order to give yourself more souls than the 2 Giant Souls the save starts you with thus making the fight a pisstake.