Binge-worthynewmedical drama
Transplant throw her newbies in at the deep end. For Ashleigh Collins (Natasha Calis), that means the frustration of being tasked with diverting calls to other hospitals.
Wolf Burke (Donald Maclean Jr) has the ‘‘seemingly simple’’ job of tracking down the patient whose severed fingers he’s been given, Keon Colby (Jordan Johnson-hinds) has to monitor (something he struggles with at the beginning, earning an instant all the carnage around her. As he spouts sexist, misogynist and racist rhetoric at her, Grace finds herself wondering if she should be continuing to help keep him alive.
Nurses’ opening gambit is filled with such ethical and emotional dilemmas and, as a way to hook you into the series, it packs a punch. The mixture of administrative chaos, medical misadventures and miracles and character-led drama reminds one of ER,
although the bookending voice-overs and middle-of-theroad ballad-filled soundtrack is pure Grey’s.
Fans of Canadian TV will also notice a similarity in style to the producer’s previous big hit, crime-drama Rookie Blue,
and screenwriteradam Pettle’s earlier projects, including the supernaturally inclined medical series Saving Hope, legal drama Burden of Truth (another recent arrival on TVNZ Ondemand) and female-led homicide detective tale The Detail.
There’s a nice rhythm to the show, even if there’s an overwhelming sense of deja vu about its scenario, as our diverse quintet offer some potential new narrative paths among the usual character flaws and foibles.
Though not perfect, if you fancy a dose of new televisual medicine, the prognosis for Nurses looks good.
Seasons 1 and 2 ofnurses is now streaming on TVNZ Ondemand.