Shows about hospitals and medicine have been popular on TV for a long time, with “Grey’s Anatomy” on ABC lasting for twenty years, even surpassing the length of “ER.” HBO has introduced “The Pitt” to positive reviews, and now Netflix is launching its first original English-language medical series, “Pulse.” Created by Zoe Robyn, “Pulse” focuses on a team of emergency and surgical trainees at Maguire Hospital, a top-tier trauma center in Miami. Just like many other shows in this genre, “Pulse” combines medical cases with the complicated personal lives of the doctors. Unfortunately, while the acting is strong, the storyline is disorganized, the portrayal of sexual harassment is disturbing, and some characters are hard to stomach, which makes for an uncomfortable viewing experience.
The story kicks off with Hurricane Andy intensifying in a coastal city, but inside Maguire Hospital, the turmoil is far greater. Particularly in the emergency room, where it’s chaotic. Third-year resident Dr. Danny Simms (Willa Fitzgerald) receives an unexpected promotion after accusing her superior, Chief Resident Dr. Xander Phillips (Colin Woodell), of sexual harassment. Despite his immediate suspension, the hurricane lockdown forces them to work together for one last shift, with Danny now in charge as the acting Chief.
As patients keep pouring in, Danny’s coworkers – comprising his best friend Dr. Sam Elijah (Jessie T. Usher), confident resident surgeon Dr. Tom Cole (Jack Bannon), surgical intern Dr. Sophie Chan (Chelsea Muirhead) and second-year emergency medicine resident Dr. Harper Simms, who is also Danny’s younger sister – are all thrown off balance by the recent events. They stand dumbfounded, uncertain of how to act without causing friction between their old superior and the new one. The tension starts mounting in the ER and operating rooms as they struggle to find a solution.
The show “Pulse” has a couple of significant problems. Firstly, the way the series is structured is an issue. Typically in medical dramas, viewers get a chance to familiarize themselves with the characters and hospital layout before being plunged into a critical situation. However, “Pulse” starts right in the middle of a crisis. For the initial five episodes of its debut season, the doctors deal with the aftermath of a hurricane, all within a 24-hour time frame. This approach is disorienting for viewers as they struggle to understand who these people are, what departments they work in, and their relationships with each other. Additionally, so much focus is given to the victims of the hurricane that the most captivating medical procedures are saved for the second half of the season, making it less engaging at first.
Due to the prolonged manner in which “Pulse” introduces its characters, the residents come across as fragmented individuals at first. Initially, only glimpses into their true personalities are shown, with the narrative jumping between past and present scenes. Characters like Danny, Tom, and Dr. Natalie Cruz (Justina Machado) are all visibly stressed and fatigued. The brief insights we get into these characters can be so frustrating that one might think twice about seeking medical help at Maguire.
The main concern raised about the show lies in its portrayal of sexual harassment, particularly the relationship between Danny and Xander. Initially, we learn that Danny has made a complaint against Xander, yet their past working dynamics and friendship are gradually unveiled in such a way that it creates an unsettling sense of manipulation throughout the narrative. It’s essential to note that victims are rarely perfect, and workplace misconduct, especially sexual harassment, can be intricate and emotionally distressing. However, the manner in which this issue is handled in “Pulse” seems peculiar, more so considering the current climate where women’s voices are often suppressed and their rights eroded.
As a fan, I’m not implying that “Pulse” is entirely inaccessible. The seamless interplay between doctors and nurses, who switch effortlessly between English and Spanish, creates an immersive experience set within the vibrant backdrop of Miami-Dade County. From Episode 6 onwards, titled “Homestead,” there’s a sense of refreshment. Characters take time off to unwind, while more insights into Danny and her sister Harper’s past unfold. Furthermore, the series also focuses on lesser-known characters such as Camila Perez (portrayed by Daniela Nieves), a third-year medical student. Her optimism and cheerful demeanor serve as a beacon of hope amidst these somber hospital professionals.
As the year draws to a close and we reflect on the events that unfolded, viewers may find themselves growing more frustrated and fatigued by the numerous personal conflicts and back-and-forth exchanges. To put it simply, “Pulse” offers some intriguing scenes, but these moments are fleeting. Regrettably, to experience these brief high points, one must endure countless hours of violence and turmoil first.
“Pulse” is now streaming on Netflix.
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2025-04-03 10:18