Ep 17. The Match Game

In ER season 2 episode 17, titled "The Match Game," an impending residency match brings various levels of anxiety and emotions to the staff at County General Hospital. The episode sets the tone with Dr. Mark Greene (Anthony Edwards), Dr. Doug Ross (George Clooney), and Dr. Susan Lewis (Sherry Stringfield) anxiously awaiting their placement results. Meanwhile, Dr. Benton (Eriq La Salle) is preparing for his grand rounds presentation, while Nurse Hathaway (Julianna Margulies) takes on various cases including a teenage patient with an STD and a woman with heart issues.

As the day progresses, different storylines unfold. Dr. Greene is occupied with a patient who is reluctant to receive medical attention while also trying to deal with the news of his placement. Dr. Lewis is assigned to a patient with a potential case of meningitis, and Dr. Ross is trying to avoid a date with nurse Carol Hathaway. The case that hits close to home, however, is when Dr. Benton is confronted with a patient that is almost a carbon copy of his mother.

As the staff patiently wait for their placement results, the episode brings up themes of loss, family, and personal growth. Dr. Benton’s character development is one of the more prominent in the episode as he grapples with the uncertainty and fear surrounding his mother's deteriorating health. While he seems to be brushing off the weight of his impending grand rounds presentation, the case he is dealing with ultimately forces him to address his emotions.

The episode’s pacing is well-executed, balancing multiple storylines without overwhelming the viewer. The scripting and dialogue are also commendable, showcasing the more human and flawed sides of the characters, making them more relatable. The actors' performances were also notable, with each character putting forth a believable and engaging portrayal of their respective roles.

While medical shows usually focus on the cases in question, "The Match Game" highlights the emotional turmoil that comes with being a medical professional. The residency match serves as a vessel in which we see our characters grow, adapt, and deal with the challenges presented to them. It's not just another day at the hospital for these professionals but a critical turning point in their careers.

In conclusion, "The Match Game" is a well-written and well-directed episode that offers its viewers a moving exploration of the challenges and rewards of being a healthcare professional. It is a great demonstration of how even the most skilled practitioners can be thrown off-balance when something strikes close to home. The episode is evenly paced, tackles different storylines with proficiency, and adds layers of depth to its characters. All in all, it's an exceptional display of the potential this show has to offer.