Life (2018)

Life (2018) is a South Korean medical drama that aired on Netflix in 2018. This riveting series stretches out over 16 thrilling episodes, offering a unique and beautifully-crafted narrative that’s bound to captivate those who enjoy intense medical dramas. Notable for its superior cinematography, compelling storytelling, and powerful performances from an ensemble cast, Life delves into the life-and-death decisions and the tumultuous politics of the medical world.

The series is centered around the struggles and strife at Sungkyunkwan University Hospital. The hospital is seen as a microcosm of society at large, introducing viewers to a wide spectrum of characters that represent different facets of this medical institution. From the highest-ranking hospital officials and brilliant doctors, to dedicated nurses, and the often overlooked, yet immensely important, support staff.

Life (2018) stands out in the genre as it combines the crucial elements of a medical drama – high-stakes operations, heart-wrenching patient stories, and the complex relationships of medical staff – with the internal politics of running a major hospital. The drama goes beyond the operation room, dipping into the continuous confrontation between those who believe that a hospital must be run as a business and those who insist that saving lives should be the paramount goal.

Our leading character, Ye Jin-Woo, played by Lee Dong-Wook, is an emergency room doctor who is dedicated to his patients and fights for their well-being. He is introduced as a compassionate and competent doctor who deeply believes in the sanctity of human life. The stark contrast between him and Goo Seung-Hyo, the hospital's new president played by Cho Seung-Woo, forms the crux of the series. Goo Seung-Hyo is a cold and calculating businessman who puts profits ahead of patients. His arrival stirs up conflict within the hospital, challenging the medical staff and doctors' beliefs and sparking a fight for control.

However, not everything in "Life" is about politics and battles. As a medical drama, many episodes also revolve around the unique cases treated by the hospital staff. Each episode boasts a plethora of patient stories that serve as both an emotional tug for the audience and a moral discussion point for the series. From the recurring surgical operations and emergency room anecdotes, Life showcases the variety of medical issues that come through the hospital doors, all while reflecting on the reality of our healthcare system.

Alongside with the battle between ideologies, "Life" also sheds light on the personal lives of hospital staff – their struggles, ambitions, dilemmas, and relationships. The character development is rich, with each character having their distinct personalities, emotions, and struggles. This character-based approach goes a long way, affording the audience a deeper understanding of their choices, especially when thrown into ethical dilemmas.

Visually, "Life" is striking. The production quality is top-notch, setting a distinctive aesthetic to enhance the viewing experience. Attention has been given to the set design, costumes, and the framing of each shot. The series is shot with a sense of realism, creating an immersive viewing experience that draws viewers in and keeps them consistently engaged.

The performances across the ensemble cast are extraordinary, adding depth to the series. The chemistry and dynamic interplay between the characters leave a lasting impression. Life (2018) boasts an impressive soundtrack that adds to the emotional heft and tension of the series, simultaneously helping to define the overall tone of the show.

Beyond its riveting drama and superb production, Life (2018) also poses important questions about medical ethics, the healthcare system, and the clash between capitalism and humanism in today's world. It invites audience members to consider big-picture issues that resonate beyond the screen, leaving viewers with much to consider long after the closing credits.

All in all, "Life" (2018) is a captivating exploration of the medical world, combining a compelling plot, complex characters, high-stakes drama, and thought-provoking themes into a well-crafted series. Whether you're a fan of medical dramas or simply enjoy well-told stories that make you reflect, Life holds a mirror to the reality of our healthcare system while delivering top-notch entertainment.