After more than ten years, "Grey's Anatomy" continues to be intriguing in season 20, which just came out on Netflix. In terms of Meredith and her medical research, this season is a drama-filled emotional rollercoaster. The difficulties with each patient and the medical interns keep the audience engaged.
Synopsis
The focus of this season is on the new medical interns, among them Derek Shepard's nephew Lucas Adams (Niko Terho). This maintains Derek's legacy in the show through season 20. Jules Millin (Adelaide Kane), Mika Yasuda (Midori Francis), Benson Kwan (Harry Shum Jr.), and Simone Griffith (Alexis Floyd) are the other interns. Bailey is the one who maintains discipline among the interns, who endure horrible conditions. This season also centers on Meredith's efforts to support her research on Alzheimer's disease while keeping the results a secret from Catherine.
Highs
The rivalry amongst the interns is what makes this season's highlights; it makes the episodes engaging. The number of patient issues combined with the work performed by the best surgeons on the show keeps the action moving quickly. The original cast from the previous seasons, which comprises Bailey, Webber, Amelia, Link, Jo, Hunt, and Teddy, is also highly anticipated. Being the original cast members, they maintain the show's legacy and make it what it is.
The appearance of Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) in a few episodes during the season lends a feeling of wholesomeness to the show. Fans are thrilled to see what she does as a surgeon going forward, especially concerning her study on Alzheimer's disease. Together, she and Amelia figure out how to fund the research and produce outcomes. Given how close they are and that Amelia is Derek's sister, their collaboration is much more satisfying. Their bond is meaningful and morally sound, which thrills the fans.
The use of artificial blood and realistic-looking procedures in the show's visual effects is particularly striking. This highlights the program and gives viewers a better understanding of the real-life experiences that practicing surgeons have. The show's acting is particularly excellent because of how intensely emotional it can get. All of the acting is excellent and believable, especially considering how large the group is.
One particularly moving episode, which is one of my favorites, featured an inmate who was having chest discomfort. The prisoner, portrayed by a pure character who deserved better, had been incarcerated since he was seventeen years old. This illustrates what occurs to prisoners who become ill while incarcerated and do not receive prompt medical attention.
The scenes where Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson) is in control of the interns again are very enjoyable. She develops into a strong character and serves as a role model for these interns. Her concern for each intern is evident in the number of times she defends them. Bailey has always been compassionate, yet assertive when necessary. This adds humor to the show and maintains its intrigue through her persona. This season consisted of many highs, but these were specifically the top ones.
Lows
This season had very few low points. The worst points of this season stem from Debbie Allen's character, Catherine Fox, who is obstinate and power-hungry. The persistent disagreements and attempts to impede Meredith's research are frustrating. This is unpleasant to watch and adds tension to the drama, especially because Meredith's study is supposed to benefit society more than hurt.
The relationship between Lucas and Simone, which was a back-and-forth affair in the previous season, is another low point. It is regressive and doesn't address any problems, particularly when Simone is obstinate and unsure of her desires. Her portrayal of Lucas when he shows genuine interest in her is naive.
Another low is that Meredith is not performing any surgeries within this season. This took out her skills of being the top surgeon. It is always intriguing seeing her perform surgeries. While she is focused on her research, there ought of been at least one episode with her performing surgery.
Verdict
This season is full of ups and downs, but is worth the watch. It is an emotional rollercoaster but teaches life lessons within the process.
Rating: 9 out of 10
Mariam Fakhreddine is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. She has worked as a news and features reporter for The Echo for two years.