Rent Bodies: Series 2 and Finale (2005)

Dramatic - Bodies: Series 2 and Finale review by JD

Like pretty much all medical dramas it is far too dramatic: Junior doctors physically bullied on ward rounds, senior doctors having swimming pools built by corrupt drug companies, managers directly coercing consultants to make unethical decisions. Real life is much more subtle and almost impossible to show in the format of a film. Nevertheless the essence of managers trying to assert power over consultants, of juniors feeling unvalued and the insinuating influence of sponsors on a trial are important points that are unfortunately too real and are illustrated effectively. The issue that was accurately defined was that of the dangerously incompetent doctor not only avoiding suspension but rising like scum through the ranks, promoted by the unknowledgeable managers while the competent skilled doctors are ensnared in bureaucratic traps.

If you care about medical politics this series will make your blood boil, if you want a dramatic drama the medical crises are very graphic and gut turning. The acting is 7/10 except for Keith Allen who is 10/10.