Watch Doctor Finlay

Doctor Finlay is a medical drama series set in the fictional town of Tannochbrae in Scotland during the 1920s. The show premiered in 1993 and ran until 1996, with a total of 31 episodes across three seasons. The series stars David Rintoul as Dr. John Finlay, a dedicated and compassionate general practitioner who is often at odds with the town's more conservative residents. Annette Crosbie co-stars as Janet MacPherson, the headstrong and independent housekeeper of Finlay's home.

The show is based on the novels of A. J. Cronin, a Scottish author and physician who wrote extensively about his experiences in the medical profession. Doctor Finlay follows the daily lives of Dr. Finlay, his partner Dr. Cameron (played by Jason Flemyng), and their colleagues at the local medical practice, as well as the residents of Tannochbrae who come to them for treatment.

Throughout the series, the doctors face a wide range of medical challenges, from childbirth and infectious diseases to accidents and injuries. But they also deal with the social and economic issues of the day, such as poverty, alcoholism, and domestic violence. The show explores the complexities of rural life in Scotland during the early 20th century, with a focus on the challenges faced by women, working-class families, and the elderly.

As the series unfolds, Dr. Finlay becomes increasingly involved in the lives of his patients, often going above and beyond the call of duty to help them. This sometimes puts him at odds with the more conservative members of the community, who view him as an outsider and a threat to their way of life. But Finlay is a determined and passionate physician, who fights tirelessly for the health and well-being of his patients.

In addition to the medical storylines, the show also delves into the personal lives of the characters. Dr. Finlay is a widower who is still mourning the loss of his wife, while Janet is a divorcee who struggles to balance her independence with her desire for companionship. The doctors' relationships with each other are also explored, as they navigate the ups and downs of their work and personal lives.

The performances in Doctor Finlay are uniformly excellent, with Rintoul and Crosbie in particular delivering standout work. Rintoul brings a quiet intensity and understated humor to his portrayal of Dr. Finlay, while Crosbie imbues Janet with a fiery spirit and vulnerability. The supporting cast is also strong, with memorable performances from Flemyng, Ian Bannen, and Jessica Turner, among others.

The production design and cinematography of the show are also noteworthy, capturing the beauty and harshness of the Scottish landscape with great skill. The costumes and set design evoke a strong sense of the period, immersing the viewer in the world of the 1920s.

Overall, Doctor Finlay is a compelling and emotionally resonant medical drama that offers a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of its characters and themes. It's a show that will appeal to fans of historical drama, as well as those who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and engaging performances. With three seasons of episodes to enjoy, Doctor Finlay is a series that deserves to be rediscovered by a new generation of viewers.

Doctor Finlay is a series that ran for 4 seasons (27 episodes) between May 9, 1993 and on Acorn TV