Staying Alive is a 2018 television drama series that tells the story of a group of doctors, nurses, and medical staff who work in a busy hospital in London. The show explores the lives, loves, and challenges of these medical professionals as they deal with the highs and lows of working in a high-pressure and often unpredictable environment.
At the heart of the series is the dynamic relationship between the senior doctors, consultant cardiologist Dr. Lawrence Shepherd (Richard Armitage) and consultant anaesthetist Dr. Anna Shaw (Suranne Jones). Despite their professional differences, the two doctors share a deep respect for each other and are always there to each other in the face of adversity.
The first season of the show follows the daily struggles of the hospital team as they battle against time, bureaucracy, and a lack of resources to save lives and heal patients. Each episode focuses on a different medical case, from a young woman with a dangerous heart condition to a traumatic accident on the busy streets of London.
Alongside the medical cases, the show also delves into the personal lives of the staff, exploring the complex relationships between the character both inside and outside the hospital. This includes Dr. Shepherd's struggle to balance his career with his responsibilities as a single father, and Dr. Shaw's relationship with her estranged mother and her complicated romantic life.
Throughout the series, Staying Alive tackles a range of issues facing modern healthcare, from the struggles of young doctors facing long hours and overwhelming debt, to the challenges of providing care in a system that is often more focused on profit than patient care.
The show is beautifully shot and visits iconic locations throughout London, giving the audience a sense of the city's diversity and vibrancy. The use of real-life medical cases also adds a sense of authenticity to the drama, making it all the more engaging and emotionally resonant.
Despite the serious subject matter, Staying Alive also has moments of laughter and humanity. The hospital staff are a tight-knit community, and the show celebrates the resilience and determination of these everyday heroes in the face of adversity.
Overall, Staying Alive is a thrilling and emotionally charged drama that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of modern healthcare. The show asks big questions about the role of medicine in our lives, and the sacrifices that must be made in order to save others. With its strong cast, engaging storylines, and stunning visuals, Staying Alive is a must-watch for anyone looking for a gripping medical drama.