One of the best medical dramas that I’ve seen in recent memory, this has been an absolute viewing pleasure. Not a single moment felt dull, slow or tiresome. This unequivocally goes right into my all-time favourite productions.

Tokyo MER: Hashiru Kinkyuukyuumeishitsu chronicles the events surrounding the newly established Tokyo Mobile Emergency Room (MER) medical team. This team of medical professionals comprises doctors who function as field surgeons as well as an anesthetic specialist, professional nurses and an engineering technician. Their sole directive is the rapid deployment in emergency response, usually for large scale crises involving numerous casualties, in the Tokyo Metropolitan area. The MER refers to the specialised vehicle that functions as an EMS ambulance, transport and ER where it not only houses the team and medical supplies on their missions but also a sanitized operating theatre. This set-up is an initiative by the Governor of Tokyo as part of her political campaign for the PM’s office.

This TBS production was helmed by Aya Matsuki, Shunichi Hirano (Nihon Chinbotsu: Kibo no Hito), Maiko Ouchi, and Masahide Izumi. The original screenplay was written by Tsutomu Kuroiwa, notable for having written numerous highly-rated dramas, one of which that I’ve seen and also enjoyed is Unsung Cinderella: Byoin Yakuzaishi no Shohosen. The original score was composed by Kei Haneoka, Tatsuhiko Saiki, and Miki Sakurai. The upbeat and heartening theme song, Akira was written and performed by four-member pop-rock group GReeeeN which plays during the end credit sequence. The medical and surgical procedures were guided by Kitasato University Hospital Emergency Critical Care and Disaster Medical Center.

The first Japanese drama produced for Disney+ channel, it had won a total of five awards at Japan’s 109th Drama Academy Awards (第109回ドラマアカデミー賞), including Best Picture, Leading Actor for Ryohei Suzuki, Supporting Actor for Kento Kaku, Supporting Actress for Nanao and Best Director for all four directors involved. In addition, a spin-off drama was spawned while a sequel movie is planned for 2023.

What I Loved

First, a disclaimer. I’m neither a medical expert nor do I possess extensive knowledge on the subject. Therefore I won't comment too much on the accuracy of medical procedures applied. My observations are based purely on my enjoyment of the dramatisation and depiction.

Just wow. I had a lot of excitement and fun watching this episodic procedural that focuses mainly on on-site medical emergencies and disasters, with an overarching political theme, underlying mystery and social commentary subtext on the ideals of the Japanese healthcare system. It’s evocative, provocative, inspiring, heartwarming, fascinating, intense… What a thrilling rollercoaster! The script is wonderfully crafted because it blends all the storytelling elements seamlessly to present an incredibly immersive, engrossing and pulsating viewing experience. The frantic and frenetic nature of the agency and urgency in the storytelling, the catharsis at the end of every episode that follows the suspense, tension and emotions imbued into the sheer variety of extreme emergency situations that progressively becomes more challenging as the story unfolds. Let’s not forget as well the tremendous inspiration drawn from conquering the overwhelming odds to emerge triumphant over adversity - it compels you to jump up and shout ganbare at the lifesaving heroes of the MER team!

None of the positives would have been justly presented were it not complemented by the commendable production quality and technical execution. Fantastic cinematography throughout, particularly the excellent camerawork, in framing the well-choreographed action sequences, and the convincingly-guided surgical skills on display. The coordination of massive numbers of extras involved ranging from the disaster victims to the collaboration between rescuers of the fire department, police, and medical personnel. The varied set designs and special effects may not appear as high-budget or expansive in detail but are nonetheless decently manifested to convincingly encapsulate the realism of the atmospherics. Likewise the music in this production truly is on another level. I love the rousing qualities of the multifaceted dramatic score that enhances each crucial moment in the story.

There is a reason so many of the cast won acting awards - their performances in this drama absolutely justifies their accolades. My first time seeing Suzuki Ryohei, this man encompasses the qualities necessary in connecting viewers to a character they could root for. His portrayal of the ML Kitami Kota is remarkably stirring, to say the least. Altruistic, charismatic, down-to-earth yet energetic and motivational, watching him in action is simply a delight. He is undoubtedly convincing in appearance, speech and manner akin to a bona fide member of Médecins Sans Frontières - the volunteer doctors who serve in disaster and war zones.

Among the supporting cast, Nanao’s Kuramae Natsume is my favourite side character and as one of two nurses in the team, she delivers a sparkling portrayal of depth in characterization and emotional range despite the limited role. Kaku Kento’s Otowa Nao, the bureaucrat with questionable motives, provides a compelling demonstration of character development behind the persistently cold exterior and grim facade throughout the entire drama. His interactions and the hint of romance with Sato Shiori's adorably sweet Kitami Suzuka is rather endearing.

Nakajo Ayami’s Tsurumaki Hina is another supporting character that experiences massive growth in her trajectory from being an inexperienced and prejudiced resident doctor to a mature member of the MER team. Phuongchi's transfer nurse from Vietnam, the bubbly Hoang Lan Minh has poignant moments of her own as well. Their amazing camaraderie and team dynamics are indeed the captivating highlights of the show. Ishida Yuriko’s Akatsuka Azusa, the Governor of Tokyo, is worthy of mention for her version of the ambitious, driven and charming politician who has to manoeuvre the political minefield brimming with unethical, corrupt and scheming rivals.

What I Didn't Like

One significant event that transpired in the penultimate episode, Final Chapter Part 1, which I wish would have occurred differently. Although it sets up the climax for the finale, this remains the single aspect which dampens somewhat the positive vibe of the story.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of my complaint about that singular event, for the most part there isn’t much else to criticize about this drama, IMHO. Perhaps a slightly bigger budget would have provided a more cinematic feel to the visuals or higher quality production designs but for what it’s worth, it does the good things very well with a great cast and loveable characters. It not only manages to sustain my interest but injected a lot of life into the storytelling to flesh out the enthusiasm and excitement. I was emotionally invested all throughout and I believe it definitely deserves more viewership than it currently has.