Ratched

Premise: “Ratched” serves as a prequel to Ken Kesey’s iconic novel, “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” focusing on the backstory of Nurse Mildred Ratched (Sarah Paulson). The series takes us back to 1947, as Mildred arrives in Northern California seeking employment at a psychiatric hospital. While presenting herself as a dedicated healer, Mildred’s true colors reveal a darker, more manipulative side as she ascends the ranks of the medical system.

Main Central Characters:

  • Mildred Ratched (Sarah Paulson): A seemingly dedicated but internally twisted nurse.
  • Dr. Richard Hanover (Jon Jon Briones): The head of the psychiatric hospital who has secrets of his own.
  • Edmund Tolleson (Finn Wittrock): A disturbed patient with a deep connection to Nurse Ratched.
  • Gwendolyn Briggs (Cynthia Nixon): A political campaign press secretary who becomes involved with Mildred.

Themes: The series dives into the complexities of mental health treatment in the mid-20th century, examining ethical boundaries, medical malpractices, and power dynamics in healthcare settings. It also delves into themes of sexuality, trauma, and manipulation.

Critical Consensus and Rating: 3/5 While the series garnered attention for its lavish production values, strong performances, and intense atmosphere, it also drew criticism for its tone inconsistencies and exaggerated character arcs. Many critics felt that the show went for shock value over substance, thus making it a mixed bag in terms of reception.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating: The series is rated TV-MA due to mature themes, strong language, and graphic violence and is not suitable for children under 17.

Broadcast Information: The series premiered on Netflix in 2020.

TV Series Recommendations:

  1. American Horror Story
  2. The Haunting of Hill House
  3. Mindhunter
  4. Bates Motel
  5. Penny Dreadful

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *