Ep 6. Anthropocene

Max Goodwin, the medical director of the New Amsterdam Hospital in New York City, is in the spotlight once again in this sixth episode of the first season. In Anthropocene, Goodwin’s proactive approach to overhauling the hospital’s healthcare system is put to the test when he seeks to revolutionize the way the hospital approaches dealing with addiction. As one of the most pressing public health issues in New York City, Goodwin is prepared to go to great lengths to ensure that the hospital is doing everything it can to aid patients in recovery from addiction.

Alongside his team, Goodwin devises a new observation wing for patients in recovery, where they can be kept under close watch and monitored for any signs of relapse. However, not everyone is on board with Goodwin’s plan, and he finds himself met with resistance from all sides, including from the hospital’s medical staff. Despite this opposition, Goodwin attempts to move ahead with his proposed program, even if it means tackling this problem head-on.

Meanwhile, sharp-tongued Dr. Helen Sharpe takes on a unique case involving a patient with seemingly supernatural healing abilities. As she helps the patient to navigate his newfound gift, Sharpe finds herself struggling to separate fact from fiction.

Additionally, Goodwin’s assistant, Georgia Goodwin, faces a crisis of her own when she is unexpectedly visited by her mother. The two have a contentious relationship, but Georgia must try to put their differences aside while she navigates her own personal drama.

As the episode unfolds over the course of its runtime, tensions rise and good intentions come under scrutiny. Goodwin is forced to face the fact that his approach might not be as comprehensive as he initially believed, and Sharpe is challenged to keep an open mind about her patient’s unique circumstance. In the end, the episode serves as a morality play on the merits of good intentions, and how they can falter when confronted with complex challenges.

Anthropocene is an engrossing episode of New Amsterdam that showcases the show’s commitment to exploring tough issues that many medical dramas only touch on lightly. It presents a well-rounded view of healthcare, addiction, and social issues which makes the series feel fresh and engaging. From start to finish, it holds the attention of its audience through precise showmanship and meaty narrative filled with surprises. The acting is strong all around, with good performances by Ryan Eggold as Max Goodwin, Janet Montgomery as Sharpe, and Margot Bingham as Georgia Goodwin. The episode is also notable for its deft handling of plot twists, major and minor, all of which feel earned and well-executed.

Overall, Anthropocene is an excellent addition to the New Amsterdam canon. It shows the value of a show dedicated to exploring the complexities of healthcare and society's role in it. While it covers important topics that couldn't be resolved in one episode, it sure does make an effort in increasing the wider awareness and appreciation for the world of healthcare. By bringing these issues to the forefront, the show proves its relevance in today's world and its ability to push boundaries and engage viewers. It will not only entertain but also inform and stimulate discussion amongst its audience.