Saturday, March 5, 2016

Black Box


Wise choice, Dr. Black...

13 Episodes - 40mins each (1h45m finale)
2014 ABC
Romance, Medical



A famed neurologist is bipolar. 



Recently, my bio class finished a basic lesson of the nervous system, so I was proud of myself when "amygdala," "occipital lobe," and, bonus, "aneurysm," were in the script. Not revolving about neurosurgery, medical accuracy does not need much precise observation from the viewer, however, intimate moments in the hospital without being caught and wearing a lab coat in the midst of everyday passersby, I'm not sure if anybody even does that.


The show heavily presents how Dr. Black 's neurological occupation induces her bipolar disorder. In one of the final episodes, she's told that [she's] lucky and.. got the good [symptoms]." The characters, from a photographic memory mate, unknowingly having a mental disorder, to a near-perfectionist neurosurgeon, all are clearly developed with psychological factors considered. If you love 'real, relatable characters,' this show may have that covered.

Besides medical cases, what is the other side of knowledgeable Dr. Black? 

Lady in the streets, freak in the sheets (if she's not on her meds) 

An interracial relationship, cheating, a one-night stand.
The passionate kissing does not dominate the show,
as the doctor can draw the line. Several other relationships are shown, such as a lesbian couple and my fave,
the Asian radiologist and the plumber.
So               cute!

The show has no downsides to be cancelled, but there wasn't anything iconic or overall 'unique' (to other ABC shows?). Yet, kudos to connecting to the audience on a sophisticated level of romance and actual med knowledge.

Finally, to close off,
This was the first show where I discovered some 'accent slips.' The ginger doctor is portrayed by English actress, Kelly Reilly. I think the neurosurgeon isn't from the States, but if he is, then I know nothing. 




SWEATPANTS
Sequence7
Well-Casted9
Enjoyment7
Ability to be Binged7
Theme Song/ Animation is Present5
Personalities Differ Among Characters8
Alternating Viewpoints/ Camera Work7
Nice! There's Character Development6
Title 7
Suspense/ Surprise5
Total6.8