Hawthorne

While some subplots are trite (a nurse turns down a paramedic’s romantic overtures, saying she’s “damaged goods"), the premiere hums along whenever Hawthorne is driving it.

The writing is a bit stilted and predictable, but the show is not unbearable--are some amusing supporting actors and the occasional engrossing medical crisis. As a character study, however, HawthoRNe is weighed down in the pursuit of worthIness.

Directed by Mikael Salomon from Masius' script, the debut hour proves busy but not particularly distinctive.

HawthoRNe seems bent on being reverential, complete with musical montages meant to break our hearts. It's not awful, by any means, just too good to be true.

What might have otherwise been a worthy effort seems pallid and wheezing compared to the acid-etched Nurse Jackie.

The ensemble cast here is flat and one-dimensional--somewhat surprising, since John Masius ("St. Elsewhere") is one of the show's executive producers.

Pinkett Smith is an engaging actress, but even her formidable energy can't liven up this sodden drama.