Watch A Young Doctor's Notebook and Other Stories

A Young Doctor's Notebook and Other Stories is a British television show that is based upon series of short stories written by Russian playwright Mikhail Bulgakov. The show, which aired on SKY ARTS in 2013, stars Daniel Radcliffe as the young doctor, Jon Hamm as the older doctor, and Adam Godley, Rosie Cavaliero, Vicki Pepperdine, Tim Steed, Shaun Pye, Margaret Clunie, and Christopher Godwin in supporting roles.

The show is set in Soviet Russia in the early 20th century, and follows a 20-something doctor (Radcliffe) as he begins his career in a small village hospital. The young doctor is highly idealistic and full of energy, but quickly discovers that the reality of medicine in remote rural areas is very different from what he was taught in medical school. The senior doctor, played by Hamm, appears to be his alter ego and frequently provides comic relief in the form of sardonic quips and wry observations.

Throughout the show's four-episode run, viewers are taken on a journey through the experiences of a young medical practitioner, whose ideals gradually become jaded by the harsh realities of the field. The first episode sets the scene for the rest of the show, as the young doctor arrives at the countryside hospital to assume his duties. He expects to be greeted with warmth and respect, but instead he is met with hostility and suspicion from the superstitious villagers. The lack of supplies and knowledge is clearly visible, and the doctor often has to think outside the box to provide even the most basic medical care.

Even with the constant struggle, the young doctor manages to find inspiration in his work, and frequently turns to his older self, played by Hamm, for guidance. The older physician was also once an idealistic young practitioner, but has now become jaded and somewhat bitter due to the realities of life under the Soviet regime. Despite his cynical disposition, he provides valuable insight and perspective for the young doctor, often through dark humor and clever wordplay.

The subsequent episodes of the show delve deeper into the day-to-day struggles of the young doctor as he works to treat his patients and navigate the complicated bureaucratic system in which he finds himself. His relationships with other staff members and patients range from comradely and supportive, to strained and argumentative. Along the way, viewers are also treated to darkly comic and absurd vignettes, such as a patient who is convinced a cat has crawled into his stomach and a local who insists she has become a werewolf.

One of the unique strengths of A Young Doctor's Notebook and Other Stories is how it combines humor and absurdity with the serious issues that doctors face. The show does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life under Soviet rule, including the frequent shortages of medicine and medical equipment. The well-written scripts, paired with strong performances from the entire cast, create a balanced and engaging portrayal of life within the failing Soviet healthcare system.

Daniel Radcliffe's performance as the young doctor is a standout, as he expertly captures the character's idealism, energy, and humor. His scenes with Jon Hamm's older doctor are a delight to watch, as the two actors have great chemistry and play off each other's strengths. The supporting cast is equally strong, providing a wide range of characters that add depth and vibrancy to the show.

In conclusion, A Young Doctor's Notebook and Other Stories is a superbly acted and well-written show that expertly navigates the line between humor and serious subject matter. It is a must-watch for fans of period dramas, medical shows, and anyone looking for a unique twist on the genre.