Review: Hospital mockumentary ‘St. Denis Medical’ isn’t ‘The Office,’ at least not yet

As a seasoned TV critic with over three decades of watching sitcoms and mockumentaries under my belt, I must say that “St. Denis Medical” is a worthy addition to the genre. With its roots deeply entrenched in shows like “The Office” and “Scrubs”, it’s not surprising that this new series feels familiar yet refreshing.

In the realm of comedy production, the mockumentary style, initially seen as a creative breakthrough, has become a common feature in sitcoms today. Interestingly, this format seems to have waned in movies, where it originated. To some younger audiences, it may appear that this style has always been around. Paradoxically, despite its diverse subject matters, one mockumentary often resembles another, featuring looks off-camera, direct addresses, and sometimes an overly self-conscious portrayal by its characters.

In a nod to the success of “The Office” on NBC, another medical workplace comedy titled “St. Denis Medical” is set to premiere on Tuesday, also on NBC. You might think of it as “The Office” transposed into a hospital setting – a concept that hasn’t been explored before. Justin Spitzer, who co-created shows like “Superstore” and “American Auto,” both airing on NBC, has written for “The Office” and “Scrubs,” a sitcom without the mockumentary style that focuses on a hospital, so there seems to be a natural progression in his creative journey.

In numerous similar series, such as “Abbott Elementary,” often praised for revitalizing network comedy, the setting is a bit of an underdog. The story unfolds at St. Denis, a small regional hospital somewhere in Oregon, serving as a vital safety net with no insurance requirements. It’s staffed by exceptional medical professionals, according to Joyce (Wendi McLendon-Covey), who boasts that they have some of the best doctors “in Oregon, taking Portland out of consideration because it’s a major city,” although she acknowledges that her team might be well-known beyond their immediate area. Despite its current status, Joyce aspires to transform St. Denis into a prestigious medical facility, and she invests in a $300,000 3-D mammogram machine in pursuit of this vision, hoping to attract patients from as far as Idaho due to our “top-notch breast screening… in the Western region.

Positioned near the bustling emergency room of a hospital, this setup maintains a tight focus while keeping action-packed and economical on resources, offering a diverse ensemble of characters. Allison Tolman assumes the role of Alex, a newly promoted supervising nurse who serves as both the central figure for actions and a surrogate for the audience. Despite being labeled a “workaholic control freak” by the experienced, mischievous doctor Ron (David Alan Grier), it’s clear that his comments stem from a mutual respect, given her dedication to her work.

In the role of the most seasoned doctor on duty, Ron – a divorced individual who relies heavily on takeout meals (as evidenced by his monthly Postmates bill earning him a gift card) – adopts a more laid-back attitude towards his work. However, he maintains a strict routine with his daily candy bar consumption. His easygoing demeanor clashes at times with Bruce (Josh Lawson), a self-important trauma surgeon known for his chiseled features, who accessorizes his office with a samurai sword and an electric guitar, and who blasts the Beastie Boys during operations. To top it off, he’s been the one snatching up the last Reese’s NutRageous bars in the hospital.

“I’m the Diana Ross around this place and you, you’re just one of the Supremes,” he says to Ron.

“You’re Diana Ross? You’re not even Bob Ross.”

Additionally showcased is Mekki Leeper, who authored and played the role of Matt in “Jury Duty.” Matt is an inexperienced RN who was raised in a Montana religious community that doesn’t acknowledge ‘medicine.’ As a newcomer, he’s full of idealism due to his naivety and will have plenty to discover. Kaliko Kauahi portrays Val, the nurse administrator, who understands how things operate and navigates them effectively. Kahyun Kim embodies nurse Serena, who exudes a vibrant, self-assured demeanor. And thus, as Peter Quince said to the rude mechanicals, “Here is a play ready for performance.

The actors are outstanding, particularly Tolman who makes watching worthwhile despite my lingering grudge towards TV for its handling of her previous shows, “Emergence” and “Downward Dog.” Grier, the seasoned actor portraying the veteran doctor, exudes an infectious calmness. Moreover, McLendon-Covey’s performance in selling herself and her hospital to the camera team is nothing short of a whirlwind of genuine and over-the-top enthusiasm.

This production is quite delightful – consistently engaging with moments of humor, occasionally amusing, essentially heartwarming, and slightly sentimental in its conclusion. In terms of television, it’s not a blockbuster hit but rather a cozy tent, offering a reliable viewing experience without any noticeable flaws or signs of wear. The only minor criticism is that while characters are introduced swiftly, they remain emotionally self-contained across the six episodes currently available. Unlike “The Office,” which kept audiences hooked for nine seasons due to its focus on character relationships, this show does not provide such a focal point, something that helped “The Office” maintain its popularity long after it went off the air.

It’s possible that it will develop further, as sitcoms often improve with age – but it could also remain the same. Uncertainty is a part of the process until we have more information.

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2024-11-11 23:31