Watch The Knick

Set in the early 1900s, The Knick is a gripping medical drama that explores the complex world of surgery during a time when medical techniques were still in their infancy. The show follows the lives of the doctors and nurses at the Knickerbocker Hospital in New York City, as they struggle to keep pace with the rapid advancements in medical science, while also dealing with pressures from the hospital's board of governors and the social and political challenges of the day.

At the center of the show is the enigmatic and brilliant surgeon, Dr. John Thackery, played by Clive Owen. Thackery is a true pioneer in the field of surgery, but his methods are often unconventional and at times controversial. Despite his successes, Thackery battles his own personal demons - including addiction to cocaine - and struggles to maintain his stature among his peers.

Alongside Thackery are a number of other key characters who form the core of the show's ensemble cast. There is Nurse Lucy Elkins, played by Eve Hewson, who serves as Thackery's assistant and sometimes confidante. There is Cornelia Robertson, played by Juliet Rylance, a socialite who finds herself drawn to the world of medicine and becomes involved in the Knick's efforts to fight a deadly epidemic. There is also Dr. Algernon Edwards, played by André Holland, a talented surgeon who faces discrimination and racism due to his race but refuses to be held back.

Through these characters and others, The Knick explores a range of issues that are still relevant today, including race, class, addiction, and medical ethics. The show depicts surgeries and medical procedures in graphic detail, which can be intense for some viewers, but this realism also lends an air of authenticity to the show's world.

One of the unique aspects of The Knick is its attention to historical detail. The show's creators - including director Steven Soderbergh - went to great lengths to accurately recreate the medical and social milieu of turn-of-the-century New York. From the costumes and sets to the use of period-appropriate medical instruments, The Knick immerses viewers in a world that feels both authentic and otherworldly.

Despite critical acclaim, The Knick was unfortunately cancelled after its second season in 2015, leaving many fans disappointed. However, the show's legacy - and its impact on the prestige cable drama landscape - lives on. The Knick demonstrated the power of historical drama to illuminate contemporary issues, while also showcasing some of the best acting and directing on television.

Overall, The Knick is a must-see for fans of historical fiction, medical dramas, and compelling character-driven storytelling. Although the show only lasted for two seasons, it has already achieved a cult following and remains a powerful and relevant look at the intersection of medicine, society, and the human experience.

The Knick is a series that ran for 2 seasons (20 episodes) between August 8, 2014 and on CINEMAX