Breathless

Breathless is a fascinating British television drama that aired on PBS in 2013. A creation of Jack Davenport, Breathless takes its viewers to the opulent and exciting world of the 1960s. Its narrative revolves around the tumultuous lives of a group of doctors and nurses in a London hospital, a journey that unveils many secrets and hidden desires. While focusing on the period's life and its socio-cultural aspects, the show also explores the themes of love, lust, and professional rivalry.

The protagonist of this captivating narrative is Otto Powell, portrayed brilliantly by Jack Davenport. Otto is a charismatic and smooth-talking obstetrician who works in a busy gynecology unit at a National Health Service hospital. He is perfect at his job, alluring, and saves multiple lives every day; but he also possesses a mysterious past and a complicated private life. His controlling nature, especially his determination to control risky pregnancies, originates from a life-altering personal tragedy.

Brimming with charm, intelligence, and wit, Otto Powell embodies the spirit of an ambitious character who defines his own rules and pays no attention to social constraints. His colleagues, including his longtime friend anaesthetist Charlie Enderbury (Shaun Dingwall), admire and respect him not just because of his awe-inspiring talent but also because of the unique charm his personality presents.

The narrative of Breathless beautifully dives into all the intriguing themes; the role of women, transforming societal norms, medical politics, and of course, romance and betrayal. It showcases an era when Britain was shifting from post-war austerity to the vibrant swinging '60s, a period of substantial societal and cultural changes. Amid this motion, the show highlights the struggle of women who faced a challenging path towards liberation and equality. Through their stories, the series puts a spotlight on their aspirations, sacrifices, and resilience in a male-dominated world.

The lives of other characters, including the earnest nurse Angela Wilson (Catherine Steadman) and Powell's elegant wife Elizabeth (Natasha Little), also add diverse layers to this narrative by providing different perspectives about their shared universe. Breathless is not just about the tumultuous lives of doctors and nurses; it's about the hidden secrets, the unspoken rules that govern their world, and individual's struggle to maintain a facade of perfection.

Another critical aspect the show delves into is the societal and moral implications of medical practice during the time. It is set in an age when abortions were illegal, contraceptive pill was not available readily and medical science was on the brink of revolutionary findings. It highlights the complexities and moral predicament doctors faced during the time, specifically focusing on Powell, who 'helps' women in private by bending the rules, fuelled by a personal tragedy. The show, in this respect, offers a thought-provoking take on the historical and moral context of gynecological and obstetric healthcare in that era.

Breathless also excels in its execution of cinematography and design elements. It paints an inviting picture of the glitz, grandeur, and aesthetic appeal of the 1960s, using visuals and sounds to create an era-specific universe. From wardrobe design to set decoration, every detail in the show helps in authenticating the period setting, thus enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Another noteworthy feature of the show is its absorbing storytelling. The narrative is expertly intertwined with revelations that tease intriguing secrets of key characters, prompting viewers to a 'guess the truth' game while enjoying the evolving drama. Through these layers, Breathless presents a high-voltage drama of ambition, betrayal, and resilience.

In all, Breathless is more than just a medical drama. It is a bold exploration of a transformative period in history, laden with engaging characters that are likable for their flaws and complexities. Its storyline not only provides suspenseful entertainment but also probes into profound themes of morality, love, and societal change. Above all, it offers a reflective view of an era which, though appearing elegant, was equally challenging. With its mixture of thrilling secrets, personal struggles, and churning socio-cultural tides, Breathless is an engaging watch for anyone who appreciates period drama with a touch of suspense and intrigue.