Chicago Med

The show isn’t even close to fully formed yet--the relationships between characters are mere sketches, and the mélange of patients, interpersonal moments, and hospital politics is a bit of a jumble--but the foundation feels solid enough to hint that while this might not be the next ER, it’s certainly something that could grow into a fully realized, enjoyable show.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Chicago Med marks yet another routine entry and doggedly follows the same beats as its forbears, most notably the Chicago-set ER.

Chicago Med isn't bad. If you're looking for just another medical show, this is it. If you're looking for something that will reach out and grab you, you're going to be disappointed.

In a medium where drama junkies increasingly seem to need recaps to confirm (or explain) what they've seen, there's a place for a relatively old-fashioned medical show, especially one with a cast this appealing.

What’s odd here is that even with the influx of injured, Chicago Med never builds any dramatic heat.

The tired nature of the material suggests this could be one of those TV operations that’s hard to deem a complete success even if the patient lives.

There appears to be nary an original plot device or line of dialogue in the Chicago Med pilot which is both alarming and impressive.