Transplant

Canadian TV often throws up some gems, this is shaping up to be one of them. A marvellous and original premise of a well-qualified immigrant doctor finding his way sets up some engaging narratives to challenge the protagonist. This innovation hoists this above the crowded morass of me-too medical dramas.

Some fine performances from Hamza Haq and Laurence Leboeuf of whom I was not previously familiar ably supported by the better known John Hannah and Torri Higginson. The plots are novel, the dialogue on-point delivering thoroughly entertaining TV compelling me to 'turn-the-page'. Currently I am halfway through season 1, my hope is that this fresh approach does not become diluted to mere procedural.

Very exciting premier! Lots of action and drama, well acted. It's interesting the Syrian refugee aspect. Uncovering over time the particular jealousy, racism on the part of the competitive medical structure, distrust on that part of refugees from an incredibly unsafe oppressive background and regime, and how that leaves people will be interesting. The premier was good enough that I'll see where it goes. I liked the actors, the production was great. I like seeing Claire from Stargate Atlantis days have a good role here. I like John Hannah too. The lead actor was really good, conveying lots without a word. I hope it doesn't descend into another medical drama. We don't need the edge of the premier over and over either, but it was a really top notch beginning. I like the timliness of it. I don't think we have a good understanding of what's been going on in Syria and the US's hand in it, especially our abandonment and destruction of the balance of power we brought to yet another regime bent on destroying what threatens it's omnipotence. The human cost is very real. I could feel it in his desperation to get out to his person even while wounded and his fear of government authorities. I really enjoyed not knowing what he had wrapped up, what was driving him to get out even while at cross currents trying to help everyone. Here's hoping it remains compelling.

I saw an ad for the show on MSNBC. It grabbed me so I watched E1 on Peacock tonight. It was better than I could have imagined. Lots of heart, great acting and interesting plot. I wish Peacock would drop all the episodes at once!! Thanks CTV.

Transplant seems to be really hitting its stride, with each episode surpassing its predecessor in quality. Instead of focusing on bizarre and inaccurate medical situations to shock and entertain viewers, Transplant uses the setting of a hospital to tell unique and interesting stories about nuanced and realistic characters. It gives voices to the often under-represented, and tackles difficult and topical issues with ease.

{Initial Impression} An excellent, quality production. Fine performances. Great writing, with real heart-pounding action. Not only is it a Canadian 🇨🇦 production, but it is set in Canada 🇨🇦 - the first is not unusual, the second is, yet I see a rise in the confidence that good productions, once proven, will be picked up by American and even International broadcasters, which will allow our productions to earn their keep. Based on this premiere, I give this series an 8 (great) out of 10. {Medical Drama}