Chicago Med Season 8 Episode 4 Review: The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From the Teacher
If you’ve ever been afraid that a train you’re on will derail, maybe look away from Chicago Med Season 8 Episode 4, “The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From the Teacher.”
Otherwise, this is a perfectly good, thrilling, and poignant episode of one of the biggest network franchises on the air right now. One Chicago has a formula. There’s no sense deviating from it.
Hannah Asher just can’t catch a break, as her quest to repair her reputation. In a heartbreakingly accurate portrayal of addiction, even in her recovery, she’s continually mistrusted.
It’s devastating seeing people not be willing to trust her, despite all the hard work she’s put in to get to this stage in her recovery. Recovery is a lifelong process with setbacks and successes.
Her judgment and competence continue to be questioned. She has proven herself multiple times over. Dean Archer is of absolutely no help in the beginning, treating her with a paternalism that will raise the neck hairs of any woman.
The continued focus on obstetrics cases is a solid venue for Chicago Med to expand Hannah’s character, though. She’s obviously an expert, and seeing her shine is exactly what the doctor ordered.
One mystery of the Universe continues to be how Crockett Marcel can look so darn good in the darkest, filthiest settings. Yet, Dominic Rains is here week after week, blessing all with the power of pretty.
Chicago Med is always up for a mass casualty event, combined with a Chicago Fire kind of crossover. The powers-that-be are also angling hard for a Suits reunion, and it’s not at all a bad thing.
Causing physical damage to his own arm, and running directly into danger is exactly who Crockett Marcel is. It’s not only for selfless reasons. We still love him, though.
There’s a point being made somewhere in here about wealth, importance, and growing fortunes to the detriment of people. It kind of gets lost in the shuffle. However, there’s clearly more to come from this new villain, Jack Dayton.
The shortages of medications and supplies are showing no sign of resolving any time soon. This is another real-life situation, that has real consequences for patients.
When news stories talk about shortages of anything, it can seem very abstract to those of us living in an incredible amount of privilege. It’s difficult to imagine going without, in a society where everything is at our fingertips.
By spotlighting one patient, and one family, Chicago Med makes this situation that much more tangible. When there’s only one medicine you can have that can save your life, what happens when it’s nowhere to be found? Nothing good.
Of course, would it be Chicago Med if Will wasn’t getting himself into situations that are way over his head? Seriously, can he ever relax for five minutes? It seems unlikely.
This… situation with contraband medication and Vanessa’s mystery “pharmacist” can’t end well for anyone. Will has just gotten himself out of major legal issues with some very bad people. Let’s not repeat that again.
As always, Dr. Charles is the underrated hero of Chicago Med. His character is oftentimes the most human. His vulnerability and humanity take center stage in the best possible way.
First, it’s amazing he’s finally found a therapist who actually listens to him, and connects with him on a human level. So often, it takes a ridiculously long time to find a mental health professional who just gets it.
Chicago Med has never shied away from mental health stories. What stands out on this episode is just how normal a therapy session looks. Like a dental visit, or routine appointment with your doctor, mental health requires this kind of maintenance.
His compassion towards his doctor, facing deep fears of his own, is aspirational. When medical professionals help one another in this way, they only improve themselves and each other.
Kai continues to be a problem, and he needs to be dealt with. His derision of Ethan’s methods is kind of a perfect way to distill what this character is about. Even when Ethan is in the right, Kai is clearly unwilling to accept this truth.
This makes Kai a weak character. Sure, there’s room for growth. However, should we be made to spend time with someone who’s so convinced of his own importance? It may become tiresome faster than anyone expects.
Zach remains a treasure, though, and he needs to be protected at all costs. He is what every student should be. Humble, willing and ready to learn, and growing into the best version of himself.
The overarching story of material shortages looks like it will continue causing chaos throughout this entire season of Chicago Med. This is giving the series a chance to tell important stories.
The ethics on this show have always been murky. However, some situations, like dealing with these shortages, present very interesting questions to consider.
If the big solution is having a financier come in and write blank checks with very specific conditions, everyone’s about to be in for heaps of trouble.
What did you think of this episode of Chicago Med? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Critic Rating:
User Rating:
Chicago Med airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on NBC.
Follow us on Twitter and on 
Instagram!
Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!
Justine Kraemer
Justine is an unashamed fan of too many TV shows and movies with a particular love of all things Marvel. She balances her love of massive massively popular shows with hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered.