Hippocrates: Diary of a French Doctor

Hippocrates: Diary of a French Doctor is a 2014 drama film directed by Thomas Lilti. The story is set in a public hospital in Paris and revolves around a young intern - Benjamin, played by Vincent Lacoste - who is starting his medical residency. Alongside his fellow interns and their supervisor Dr. Barois, played by Jacques Gamblin, they tackle the daily challenges of working in a public hospital, such as understaffing, resources allocation, and patient care.

Benjamin quickly realizes that the reality of being a doctor is much harsher and complicated than he expected. As a trainee, he is forced to compromise his values and adapt to the traditional medical practices and hierarchy of the hospital. His ethical dilemmas are highlighted when he disagrees with his mentor's approach to a patient's case, and he must decide whether to stand up for his convictions or to conform to the institutional structure.

The film also focuses on the social issues affecting the hospital, such as the presence of undocumented immigrants and the lack of resources. The interns witness the impact of societal problems on the health of their patients, such as a tuberculosis outbreak in the hospital's ward, highlighting the dangers of neglecting public health.

The relationships between doctors, patients, and family members are depicted with empathy and nuance. Benjamin and his fellow interns have to navigate the delicate balance between professional detachment and emotional involvement. They form strong bonds with the patients and their families, but they also witness the limitations of medicine in treating chronic diseases and the devastating effect of death on those left behind.

The film also explores the personal lives and struggles of the hospital staff, such as Benjamin's romance with a fellow intern and the ethical challenges faced by Dr. Barois. The emotions conveyed in the film are raw and genuine, highlighting the intense pressure and emotional toll that being a doctor can have.

Hippocrates: Diary of a French Doctor is an outstanding portrayal of the realities of working in a public hospital. The film is brilliantly cast, with strong performances from Lacoste, Gamblin, and Reda Kateb, who plays Abdel, a hospital orderly. The film's cinematography is gritty and realistic, capturing the sterile and often chaotic environment of a hospital.

Overall, Hippocrates: Diary of a French Doctor is a deeply humanistic and thought-provoking film that should resonate with anyone interested in medical ethics, social justice, and the human side of medicine. It is a must-watch for anyone considering a career in medicine or curious about the inner workings of a public hospital.