Ep 1. Body and Soul

All Saints Season 1 Episode 1: Body and Soul

In the very first episode of the acclaimed Australian medical drama series, All Saints, titled "Body and Soul," viewers are introduced to the world of Ward 17, a busy inner-city hospital where a dedicated team of medical professionals work tirelessly to save lives.

The episode begins with the arrival of nurse Claire Anderson (Georgie Parker) as she starts her shift at All Saints Hospital. Claire quickly finds herself thrust into the fast-paced and challenging environment of Ward 17, where she encounters patients from all walks of life, each with their own unique medical needs.

As Claire familiarizes herself with her surroundings, she meets Dr. Jack Quade (John Howard), an experienced and respected surgeon known for his brash demeanor and unconventional methods. Despite their initial clash of personalities, Claire recognizes Jack's commitment to his patients and the medical profession.

Meanwhile, Overworked and exhausted, nurse Terri Sullivan (Judith McGrath) finds herself questioning her career choice. Dealing with a particularly challenging case, Terri's feelings of self-doubt begin to take their toll, and she seeks solace in the guidance of her colleagues, nurse Von Ryan (Jenni Baird) and nurse Bronwyn Craig (Libby Tanner).

The episode also focuses on the developments inside the emergency department, where nurse Ben Markham (Brian Vriends) and emergency registrar Dr. Steve Taylor (Sam Healy) work together to treat patients in critical condition. Both professionals struggle with the emotional toll of their high-pressure jobs and must find ways to cope with the strain.

Beyond the medical challenges, "Body and Soul" also delves into the personal lives of the hospital staff. We get a glimpse into the complex relationship between Dr. Terence Elliott (Andrew McFarlane), the head of surgery, and his ambitious wife, Dr. Christine Gibson (Joy Smithers). Conflict arises when Christine's career aspirations clash with Terence's desire for a more balanced life.

Additionally, we are introduced to ward receptionist Jaz Hillerman (Sam Healy), whose bubbly personality brings a touch of levity to the otherwise somber hospital environment. Jaz's interactions with patients and staff members foster a sense of camaraderie and provide a brief respite from the constant pressures of the medical world.

As "Body and Soul" unfolds, the characters face a variety of challenges ranging from medical emergencies to personal crises. The episode examines themes of dedication, resilience, and the profound impact that healthcare professionals have on the lives of their patients.

Filled with emotional moments, intense medical procedures, and captivating storylines, the pilot episode of All Saints lays the groundwork for future episodes, promising an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the lives of the dedicated individuals working at Ward 17.

Note: All Saints is a long-running series that aired from 1998 to 2009 in Australia. The show gained popularity for its realistic portrayal of medical professionals and their daily struggles, as well as its exploration of complex interpersonal relationships within a hospital setting.