The prognosis for the BBC's newest medical drama, 'Doc', is looking decidedly grim following a brutal assessment from critic Christopher Stevens. The series, which promised an inside look into the medical world, has been diagnosed as a tedious and overly sentimental failure to launch.
Stevens, reviewing for the Daily Mail, didn't mince his words. He declared the show's central premise—a doctor treating his own family and neighbours—as fundamentally 'unwatchable'. The drama, intended to be a heartfelt exploration of community care, instead collapses under the weight of its own sluggish pacing and lack of narrative urgency.
A Cure for Insomnia?
Far from the gripping tension of classics like 'Casualty', 'Doc' opts for a meandering, maudlin tone. Stevens suggests the show is so slow it could serve as a potent remedy for insomnia rather than must-see television. The critic paints a picture of a drama utterly devoid of the crisis and pace that defines both real medicine and successful medical shows.
Where's the Drama?
The core of the critique lies in the show's baffling lack of conflict. A compelling medical drama typically thrives on high-stakes emergencies, ethical dilemmas, and the relentless pressure of life-and-death decisions. 'Doc', in contrast, presents a sanitised version of medicine where the biggest tension seems to be a missing prescription. Stevens argues this creates a vacuum where drama should be, leaving audiences with nothing to invest in emotionally.
Despite a capable cast, the characters are let down by a script that fails to provide them with any substantial challenges or engaging story arcs. The result is a flat and uninspiring viewing experience that fails to capture the heroism and chaos inherent in the medical profession.
In his final damning verdict, Stevens concludes that 'Doc' is a missed opportunity and a forgettable addition to the BBC's roster. For viewers seeking a medical fix, the prescription is clear: look elsewhere.
