TV Review: NBC's "Medium"

May 15
04:49

2024

Paul Griffitts

Paul Griffitts

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"Medium," NBC's latest show, follows Allison Dubois, a determined mother of three and law student, who discovers her ability to communicate with the dead, foresee the future, and read minds. While the premise is intriguing, the execution leaves much to be desired. This review delves into the show's strengths and weaknesses, offering a comprehensive analysis of its themes and storytelling.

Introduction to "Medium"

Last night,TV Review: NBC's I tuned into NBC's new show, "Medium," which centers around Allison Dubois (played by Patricia Arquette). Allison is a resolute young mother of three, a dedicated wife, and a law student who begins to realize she possesses extraordinary abilities. She can communicate with the deceased, foresee future events in her dreams, and read people's thoughts.

Plot Overview

The storyline kicks off with Allison's six-year-old daughter befriending a boy in the schoolyard. The twist? This boy died in a car accident five years ago. This supernatural encounter creates a dilemma for the young girl, who is reluctant to part with her spectral playmate. Allison steps in to explain the afterlife, describing it as a place where the deceased can watch the living as if they were a movie.

Critical Analysis

Rehashed Themes

The concept of life after death and communicating with spirits is not new. "Medium" rehashes these themes without adding any fresh perspective. The show attempts to present these ideas in a palatable manner, but it falls short of offering anything groundbreaking.

Execution and Storytelling

The execution of the plot is lackluster. The narrative feels tired and uninspired, failing to engage the audience fully. The portrayal of the afterlife as a place where spirits "hang out" and watch the living is clichéd and lacks depth.

Theological Perspective

From a theological standpoint, the show’s depiction of the afterlife and communication with spirits is controversial. Many reputable Bible scholars have debunked the idea of life after death as presented in "Medium." The show’s attempt to soft-sell these spiritual concepts can be seen as problematic.

Audience Reception

Despite its shortcomings, "Medium" has garnered a mixed reception. Some viewers appreciate the supernatural elements and Patricia Arquette's performance, while others criticize the show for its lack of originality and depth.

Interesting Statistics

  • According to Nielsen ratings, "Medium" premiered to an audience of 16.1 million viewers, making it one of NBC's most-watched shows at the time of its debut. Source: Nielsen Ratings
  • A survey conducted by Pew Research Center found that 18% of Americans believe in the ability to communicate with the dead, highlighting the show's potential appeal to a niche audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Medium" offers an intriguing premise but falters in its execution. The show recycles old themes without adding new insights, resulting in a narrative that feels stale. While Patricia Arquette delivers a commendable performance, it is not enough to salvage the show from its shortcomings. For those interested in supernatural dramas, there are more compelling options available.

Final Thoughts

"Medium" had the potential to be a captivating exploration of the supernatural, but it ultimately falls short. The show’s reliance on clichéd themes and lack of originality make it a forgettable addition to NBC's lineup. A more innovative approach to the subject matter could have elevated the show to greater heights.

Note: This review is based on the initial episodes of "Medium." Future episodes may address some of the issues highlighted here. For more information on the show's ratings and audience reception, visit Nielsen Ratings.