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Code Black: Blood Sport (2016)
Another intense episode.
Code Black #1.18 wrapped up the freshman season of the medical drama by tying up most of the loose ends...and leaving just enough strings unraveled to set up--at the very least--a decent second season.
The writers managed to skillfully use the down arcs to set up future stories--Angus' short-lived drug addiction is the impetus for Heather's blackmailing Campbell, and Mario's intervention is going to lead to some therapy for Angus.
The most interesting thing about the hook for "Blood Sport" was how having VIP patients (who Leanne has previously despaired of) leads to a serious compromising of medical ethics. I enjoyed how the way that each of the doctors responded to the dilemma gave us insight into their moral character.
It also was a nice (if not at all subtle) nod to Leanne's attempts to navigate this new position. She was smart to use all her resources and call Taylor in, although it leaves some questions about the future of the directorship.
I like Taylor and would love to see him back, but Leanne, as the heart of the show, is more interesting in the role from a story teller's perspective. I actually like the idea of him coming back and wanting to get to practicing medicine. It would allow for more flexibility in scheduling Kevin Dunn, and Leanne would have more potential arcs.
We got to hear some more of Taylor's great one-liners, the best of which being:
"You really think you're gonna drag me off my boat to talk about the budget? I'd rather have a root canal...on my nuts."
Angus now holds the record for quickest resolution to drug addiction on an hour-long drama.
As brief as his flirtation with Adderall was, it allowed for a complete resolution of one plot issue and opened a whole can of crazy for the second season. The best part of this plot was that Mario finally managed to act like a decent human being and a good friend when he ratted Angus out to Mike.
Mike's realization that he had basically pressured his little brother into this behavior was really well done. It wasn't nearly as melodramatic as it could have been; the two connected in what felt like a very real way. How refreshing to have friends and family successfully step in before a car wreck or other near-death experience.
Angus: All I've wanted since I first walked into Trauma One was to feel like I belonged here. Mike: You do belong here. Angus: And just when I was starting to feel like I did...(sighs). He took this from me. I took this from me. I killed someone, and now I can't walk in here without thinking about that. The pills let me not think about it.
But Heather's role of "drug buddy" and her attitude about her role in Angus' problem only deepens the enigma that is Heather Pickney. On the one hand, she's totally callous about how easily he got hooked. But on the other, would she have gone to such lengths if it was just her ass on the line?
Okay, so, Angus probably didn't do much to influence the path she decided on. Still, I can't quite decide if she's a ballsy woman using any means necessary to save herself or if she's just a sociopath.
It's almost shocking that Campbell didn't see something like this coming. He's no idiot, and this can't have been the first resident he's had a relationship with. I hate Heather's tactics, but I also kind of respect them. I am just so conflicted with her.
Finally, we got we wanted most: Leanne and Jesse end off on yet another bout of hilarious, light-hearted one-liner exchanges that really make their relationship what it is.
Jesse: You hug me any tighter, your boobs are gonna crack my ribs. Leanne: I hug you any tighter, you're gonna have cookie dough coming out your a**.
This was a good season finale. I am impressed, so I am not moved to change my opinion on how much I love this show. Great writing, stellar acting. It, again, wrapped up most of the loose ends of the season. I applaud everyone involved!