ER: The Complete Fifteenth Season [DVD]

Recent storylines and series of ER give the impression that the writers had nothing left to say, and where trying too hard to keep it origianal and realisitic at the same time. Season Ten saw the realisitc element substituted for two barmy storylines involving a stolen tank and a helicopter falling off a roof. Season 14 went in the other direction, making it so realisitic that it seemed to be repeating material from previous seasons, often carried by the hapless activities of Harold and Morris. Ever since Mark Greene left at the end of Season Eight, the show has been struggling to find a medium between realistic, original storylines and something that entertained. It seemed like it had run out of ideas. (Although, lets face it, it was better than Casulty or Holby)

However ER fans kept watching. For while the storylines seemed to be either weak, repetitive or unrealistic the characters remained and although we didn't really care for the storylines themselves, we cared for the characters within them. This is where ER's writer's excel, they can create flawed, subtle characters that the viewer will always connect with. ER is also wonderfully acted drama with a rich and diverese cast. It always has been and Season 15 is no different.

The storylines in Season 15 are entertaining, thought provoking, controversial and realistic as ER should be. It starts with a bang and ends with one too. In fact, it is difficult to think of an episode that wasn't better than anyone from Season 14. Other episodes are amoung the best ER have ever producted. Age of Innocence, A Long Strange Trip, The Book of Abby and In The End particularly come to mind. Add this to some old favourite characters returining for varied spells (Greene, Weaver, Kovac, Carter,Corday and Lewis to name just a few) and the season seems a lot fresher whilst still maintaining an ER aura.

For me, though, it is the main cast in Season 15 that make it what it is. Each character seems to have mellowed and matured since when they began. Scott Grimes, for my money one of the best actors to ever be on ER, portrays Archie Morris as a much improved doctor although there are still enough mistakes from him to believe that the step up from incompetent resident wasn't too sudden. Elsewhere Tony Gates progresses from a hot-head to a calm, relaxed doctor and father, Sam's character is given added depth by her mother and sister and Neela becomes an Attending. Brenner's jump from complete jerk to sensitive guy is slightly too rushed, however.

Also joining the cast is Banfield (Basset), whos character is evident from the beginning as a bossy, yet deep down sensitive person. Four interns who have a limited role within the series (The one named Daria (I think) is the only one that touches upon other people's lives) but give the Season substance and depth, a much needed quality missing from Season 14.

Overall season 15 is a far cry from the confusing attempt of Season 14. It mingles origianal storylines with old, new and present characters. And it is one of the best pieces of television I have ever seen. (And its better than Casulty and Holby by the way, just in cast you didn't know)

Amen Alan, a tear indeed.

ER is and has been the finest hospital TV drama since series 1. The attention to detail and jargonistic approach of Michael Crichton was evident from the first episode and this series has never been allowed to stray from the enthralling and intriguing formula that has drawn millions of fans worldwide. The personal drama of patients and staff alike, mixed with enough humour to keep you laughing as well as crying is what has set ER apart from the standard fare.

If you've never seen the programme, try it. Mark Green's friendship with Doug Ross is one of the highlights (series 3-6 ish) and later on, Carter's troubles throughout his career. I'm sure other fans have their own favourites and you'll see many recognisable faces through the years.

The 15th season was wonderful for myself as a fan, starting in a shocking fashion which actually brought tears! Old faces visiting, famous faces starting and a legacy comes to an end.

Written well, acted well and supported well, ER will be missed but it ended well, it felt finalised; kudos.

ER: The Complete Fifteenth Season [DVD] [2008]I am SO glad that I did a price check before buying this, competitors were charging almost double!
This is a fabulous series and I enjoyed it immensly, even more knowing that I picked Amazon for my bargain buy!!!!