A Young Doctor's Notebook Season 1

A Young Doctor's Notebook Season 1 (Alex Hardcastle, 2012)

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Rating: DSQ=8, SP=4 / Average Snack

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=2, Scale D=2, Scale E=2

Surreal, Dark Humor, Russian Revolution, Drug Addiction

Based on the writings of Bulgakov, this show is quite intriguing but shockingly graphic. If you don't like medical drama because of the blood and operations, you probably won't like this one. A middle-aged doctor remembers his past experiences working as a country doctor in a remote Russian village during the revolution. In a unique and surreal twist, both versions of the doctor appear on screen and converse at the same time.

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Parade's End

Parade's End (Susanna White, 2012)

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Rating: DSQ=11, SP=5 / Can't Get Enough

Scale A=4, Scale B=4, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=2

Based on Novel, WWI, Intellectual, Romance, Complex Relationships, Tradition, Changing Times

I read somewhere that Parade's End was a bit like a "high brow Downtown Abbey." I completely agree. This tale of changing attitudes and societal values before, during, and after WWI is one of the most compelling and understated I've ever seen. The dialogue is rich and complex. It is also delivered astonishingly well by a wonderful troupe of actors, led by Benedict Cumberbatch. It is also a love story full to the brim with tension. There are many moments where the camera lingers on a repressed emotion and you become completely absorbed in that feeling, too. This production really highlights the way human beings cope with their vulnerability: some hide behind a thick shield, some cling to the past, others lash out, still others ride out the storm.

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Longitude

Longitude (Parts 1 and 2) (Charles Sturridge, 2000)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Biopic, History, 18th Century, WWII, Scientific Discovery, Invention

This miniseries was interesting, informative, and well executed by seasoned actors and beautiful art direction. We follow two stories: first, the one of John Harrison, inventor of the first truly portable timepiece, and his life's mission to solve the problem of finding longitude at sea. Second, that of Rupert Gould in the 1930s who brings Harrison's inventions back to life. I enjoy a historical docu-drama from time to time (pardon the pun) and this one was one of the best I've seen in a long while. If you like history and forgotten inventors, you'll probably enjoy Longitude. 

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Mildred Pierce

Mildred Pierce (All 5 parts) (2011)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

 

1930s, Complex Relationships, Mother/Daughter, Miniseries, Based on Book

This is a fascinating story that stays in your mind for hours, days, and maybe even weeks for me. The stress and hardship of the depression era collides with a failing marriage so Mildred Pierce is forced to go out and work. Her ambition and pride leads to great success but the money that comes tempts those around her to use her. A truly viscious daughter, a back-stabbing lover, untrustworthy friends, her own faults... A memorable viewing experience for sure.

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