Last Hope (2013)

On the surface, "Last Hope" is like most other medical dramas out there. Every episode, there is a new patient and a new medical issue for that patient that it is up to the doctors to solve/cure. There are patients they save, there are patients they don't save, but every patient's journey teaches the audience something about life with some critique of the medical system. This is hardly unique, and definitely not a spoiler. What is relatively unique about this medical drama is its storytelling style - while each episodic, patient-centered story takes place in the present, the longer overarching stories of the doctors unfold bit by bit through flashbacks in the past. Honestly, this was what I found most compelling. The stories aren't unique or unexpected (not even the backstories of the doctors), but there was something about the way the plot unfolded that kept me watching until the end. Aiba Masaki and Tabe Mikako as a primary leads are barely believable as doctors, and I kind of appreciated how the characterization of their characters leaned into that a little bit (particularly with Aiba's Hatano-sensei). This drama's writing is definitely uneven - with some characters thoroughly explored, while others definitely underdeveloped - and at times melodramatic, but it was decently entertaining. Definitely recommended to fans of Aiba Masaki or people who enjoy dramas with an interwoven narrative.

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