This Is Going to Hurt

This Is Going to Hurt is a compelling new drama series from AMC+ that premiered in 2022. Based on the award-winning memoir by Adam Kay, this British-made series offers viewers a gritty yet humorously candid glimpse into the chaotic and often overwhelming world of the National Health Service (NHS), a publicly funded healthcare system in the United Kingdom.

Set in the early 2000s, This Is Going to Hurt follows the journey of its main character, Dr. Adam, portrayed exceptionally by Ben Whishaw, a talented actor known for his roles in "Skyfall" and "Paddington". Dr. Adam dives headfirst into his new career as a junior doctor in obstetrics and gynecology, filled with immense passion and enthusiasm for his chosen path. However, he quickly realizes that his expectations clash with the bare-knuckle reality of hospital life.

This show truly excels in striking a balance between the dramatized high stakes of the emergency ward, where lives hang in the balance, and the absurdly humorous episodes that naturally emerge from such a high-stress environment. It is not afraid to tap into the darker side of medical practice, laying bare the physical and emotional toll it takes on the individuals working in the NHS, while also displaying the iron-willed spirit that compels them to continue.

Viewers not only get to see Dr. Adam's professional life but also gain insight into his personal life and the toll his demanding career takes on it. The show shows the blurring of lines between his job and his personal life, a theme that many front-line healthcare workers can undoubtedly relate to. Balancing personal relationships, a lack of sleep, and the constant reminder of life’s fragility makes This Is Going to Hurt an exploration of human resilience and vulnerability.

British viewers will find the series a relatable reflection of the UK's NHS – its triumphs and shortcomings alike. For international audiences, This Is Going to Hurt offers a human-centric narrative focusing on a global issue – the strain on healthcare systems and workers – making it universally relatable.

This Is Going to Hurt is not confined to presenting merely the harrowing aspects of healthcare in the NHS; it also pays homage to the lighter moments. The quirks of patients, the banter, and camaraderie shared between the medical staff - these aspects breathe life into the otherwise intense atmosphere of the series and contribute shades of comedy to the palette of the drama.

A striking feature of the series is the commendable performance by the ensemble cast. The performances are realistic and intense, making viewers empathize with the characters and their experiences. Alongside Ben Whishaw, the talented cast includes Ambika Mod and Alex Jennings, among others, who breathe life into Adam's world.

Another strength of the series lies in its writing. Adam Kay himself co-writes the script, ensuring that the storytelling remains authentic to the original memoir. The script oscillates masterfully between moments of jarring reality and light-hearted humor, depicting the roller-coaster life of a medic. It expertly captures the highs and lows, the victories and losses, and the laughter and tears that mark the journey of these real-life heroes.

Produced by AMC+, This Is Going to Hurt is a beautifully crafted show that is as much about medicine as it is about the human spirit. It’s a testament to the resilience of healthcare workers, shedding light on their untold stories with a mix of searing honesty, raw emotion, brutal truths, and unexpected humor.

Overall, This Is Going to Hurt is a raw and unflinchingly honest portrayal of medical practice in the UK. It's a powerful, humorous, and poignant look at the human elements of healthcare, an ode to those who dedicate their lives to being on the front lines of medical care. With its exceptional cast, authentic storytelling, and contrasting themes, the series offers a captivating viewing experience, making it a worthy addition to AMC+'s growing roster of quality programming.