Burnt Food

Would be nice to have a TV show occasionally where people act like real people. A job interview for a surgical residency that consists of one question, followed by a boardroom clapping, erm really?? The autistic doctor is realistic in some ways, with flashes of Hollywood that jar. Surely failure to employ based on disability would be a lawsuit waiting to happen, there are processes. The series of unlikely medical catastrophes. The family drama. Too many incidents predictable for TV and unlikely for real life. Disappointing Hollywood can't do better. But of the amazon prime shows I've recently watched, this is the one I can most stomach watching.

In the first episode of The Good Doctor, we are introduced to autistic doctor, Shaun Murphy, as he travels to San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital, recruited as the first autistic doctor under their name. We are shown the hesitance and discrimination from the fellow doctors and the board, and how Shaun works, what is normal for him.

I feel like perhaps although they went a bit overboard with the discrimination against Shaun, they did this very well. As an autistic viewer, I am incredibly happy to see an autistic character portrayed so well. I was so happy, I cried a few times through the episode seeing just how amazingly it was done. The people behind the show have obviously done their research, and it is so refreshing to see for once. There aren't many shows that do it this well, and I cannot say how great it is to see.

I feel like this received a lot of harsh criticism, especially on case of the flash backs. They were done for a reason, so we can see how Shaun works and thinks in his life now. I don't understand why so many have spared harsh words for this technique used in many shows for a learning experience for the viewers.

I am extremely excited to see where this is going, and I will definitely be an avid watcher for the whole season!

The premiere episode of The Good Doctor introduces viewers to Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgical resident with autism and savant syndrome. The episode begins with a powerful opening scene where a glass panel shatters and falls on a young boy, prompting Shaun to spring into action at the airport. His ability to diagnose the situation and suggest life-saving interventions on the spot is immediately apparent, but the reactions from those around him set the tone for the series. As Shaun arrives at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital for his first day, flashbacks reveal his troubled childhood, including the tragic death of his brother Steve, which fuels his desire to become a surgeon.

The episode carefully balances the portrayal of Shaun's exceptional medical talents with the challenges he faces due to his condition. Freddie Highmore's performance as Shaun is both nuanced and compelling, capturing the character's emotional depth and the social barriers he encounters. The direction by Seth Gordon ensures that the pacing of the episode remains engaging, with the medical drama unfolding alongside Shaun's personal story. The script effectively introduces the central theme of the series-challenging perceptions and biases within the medical community-while also setting up the interpersonal dynamics among the hospital staff.

Cinematographically, the episode uses close-ups to highlight Shaun's perspective, allowing viewers to see the world through his eyes. The editing is sharp, especially in the tense moments when Shaun's abilities are put to the test. The airport scene, in particular, stands out as a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the series' exploration of Shaun's journey. The episode's rhythm maintains a balance between emotional depth and the fast-paced nature of medical emergencies, making it a compelling introduction to the series.

However, while the episode succeeds in establishing Shaun as a unique and sympathetic protagonist, it occasionally falls into the trap of using his condition as a narrative device to create drama. Some of the supporting characters, particularly those who doubt Shaun's capabilities, are portrayed in a somewhat one-dimensional manner. This can detract from the complexity of the show's message about inclusion and the value of diverse perspectives in medicine.

Overall, "Burnt Food" is a strong start for The Good Doctor, offering a blend of medical drama and character-driven storytelling. It lays a solid foundation for the series by introducing a protagonist whose journey is as much about personal growth as it is about saving lives. The episode's emotional resonance and Highmore's standout performance make it a memorable introduction to a series that promises to challenge conventional notions of what makes a great doctor.

Growing up as a high functioning autistic boy I got a lot of people saying not so nice things about me just because I had this label attached to me. Literally people I had never met before would judge me because I wasn't like other kids. I saw that in this and it really struck home. First off I want to commend Freddie Highmore on his stellar performance of a high functioning yet severely autistic man. As someone who as I've already stated was diagnosed with autism at a young age and has spent over 10 years of my life with other people on both ends of the spectrum I think I'm more than qualified to give him a little praise. I also loved how they had those visual prompts kind of like Sherlock's mind palace. Every time I realised he was trying to solve a problem I'd audibly show my excitement. Other than a few irritating characters which are supposed to be irritating so good job! I really enjoyed this on a personal level and as a lover of television and film. I'm gonna give this a 9 for now as I don't know what's to come next but I'm excited I'll tell you that much.

Okay, as a pilot episode this episode ticks almost all the boxes - introducing the main characters, setting up future conflicts etc. It's a good see a film protagonist that many people like him are going to be inspired by. I thought the casting choices were good especially the lead actor. Freddie Highmore is very convincing as an autistic person and looks the part. The rest of casts are fine. However, what I'm not a fan of about this episode is the melodrama; the dramatic elements were too on-the-nose and so was the music. The dialogue was cheesy. And there were a lot of of 'convenient coincidences' that take place in this episode. I hope there won't be a romance angle or love triangle anytime soon or anytime ever lol. What I like apart from the acting, is the animation that pops on the screen everytime something anatomical comes up. It's educative and keeps the viewer informed. Overall, a good pilot with good performances and some interesting future conflict, but I hope the drama and the cheesiness could be tone down a bit in the future episode.