Medical dramas have always had a special place on German TV, but a new series called ‘KRANK Berlin’ is here to give the genre a fresh and modern twist. Directed by Alex Schaad, known for the award-winning fantasy romance “Skin Deep,” and written by British writer Samuel Jefferson, ‘KRANK Berlin’ promises to showcase the harsh realities of emergency medicine in a bold and captivating way.
A Glimpse into the Toughest Medical Facility in the City
‘KRANK Berlin’ is an eight-part series that follows a young team of doctors working in the most overcrowded and challenging medical facility in the city. Despite being underpaid, poorly equipped, and constantly exhausted, these doctors find solace in dark humor and sometimes resort to extreme measures to cope with their daily struggles.
The series stars Haley Louise Jones as Zanna Parker, the hospital’s new chief doctor, and Slavko Popadic as Ben, an anarchist emergency doctor. As the hospital’s reform measures face resistance from the staff, ‘KRANK Berlin’ delves into the complex dynamics of the healthcare system and the doctors’ personal battles.
A Unique Blend of Authenticity and Collaboration
Samuel Jefferson, the British writer behind ‘KRANK Berlin,’ drew inspiration from his own experience as an emergency physician with the NHS in London before embarking on a writing career. The series aims for authenticity, setting itself apart from the more sterilized medical dramas commonly seen on German TV. The run-down hospital, located in Neukölln and Kreuzberg, two culturally diverse working-class districts in Berlin, serves as the backdrop for the doctors’ stories, which tackle social issues like drug addiction, racism, and violence.
Jefferson’s collaboration with the German creative team, including producer Viktor Jakovleski, adds a unique perspective to the series. The show benefits from a fusion of British sensibilities and German storytelling, making it a truly one-of-a-kind production.
Captivating Audiences with Authenticity
‘KRANK Berlin’ stands out among medical dramas for its raw authenticity and genuine Berlin vibe. The series highlights the delicate balance between love and frustration that comes with living in the city. Its focus on the daily struggles of medical professionals, combined with the melting pot of cultures found in Berlin, makes ‘KRANK Berlin’ a captivating and relatable story.
Gilda Weller of Violet Pictures, one of the producers of the show, emphasizes that ‘KRANK Berlin’ aims to be different from typical German medical series. Samuel Jefferson’s personal experience and firsthand knowledge of the stress-filled reality of emergency medicine add an extra layer of authenticity to the series.
Beta Film, the production company behind ‘KRANK Berlin,’ believes that the series has what it takes to resonate with international audiences. Its international cast and crew, combined with the show’s genuine depiction of Berlin, make it a compelling watch for viewers around the world. In ‘KRANK Berlin,’ the city itself becomes a central character, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
‘KRANK Berlin’ is set to redefine the medical drama genre with its gritty realism and captivating storytelling. Prepare to be immersed in the stressful and gripping world of emergency medicine when the series hits the small screen.