Are you thinking about a career in medicine? This post will give a few movies and shows that offer glimpse into the realities, challenges, and ethics of a life in healthcare. From intense hospital dramas to inspiring true stories, I will highlight what is worth watching if you are curious about the medical field and maybe even inspire you to join it!
First up, we have a movie called Awakenings from 1990 that is based on a true story and follows Dr. Malcolm Sayer, who is a neurologist that discovers a potential treatment for patients left awake but were unable to move or respond caused by serious brain injury. When this new drug temporarily “awakens” his patients, they experience a powerful return to consciousness and reality. This film explores the hope, uncertainty, and ethical challenges of experimental medicine, as well as the deep human impact of neurological illness and compassionate care. (Image- Awakenings. IMD.b.com 15 January 2026)
Next, we have Joseph Sargent’s film from 2004 Something The Lord Made starring Alan Rickman, which tells the true story of Vivien Thomas, who is a self-taught surgical technician who works with heart surgeon Dr. Alfred Blalock. Together, they develop a groundbreaking procedure to treat “blue baby syndrome”, saving countless lives of infants. This film highlights medical innovation, perseverance, and the racial barriers faced within the medical field, and is one you do not want to miss! (Image- Something The Lord Made. IMD.b.com 15 January 2026)
3. Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story
Next, we have Thomas Carter’s film from 2009, Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story which follows the true journey of Ben Carson, from a troubled childhood to becoming a world-renowned neurosurgeon. This film focuses on discipline, education, faith, and perseverance and highlights how determination and mentorship can overcome obstacles on the path to a medical career. If you are interested in going down the medical field path, I highly recommend this movie! (Image- Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. IMD.b.com 15 January 2026)
4. Scrubs
Next, we have a famous TV show by Bill Lawrence n 2001, Scrubs which is a medical comedy-drama that follows young doctors as they navigate hospital life while balancing intense workloads, friendships, and personal growth. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the show explores the realities of early medical careers, including mentorship. burnout, and the emotional impact of caring for patients. (Image- Scrubs. IMD.b.com 15 January 2026)
Finally, we have one of my favorites, Shonda Rhimes show starting in 2005, and is still currently running, Grey’s Anatomy. This is a medical drama that follows surgical intern Meredith Grey and her fellow companions, including residents and attending physicians as they train and work at a busy hospital. This show highlights the pressures of medical training, complex patient cases, and the personal relationships that shape life inside and outside of the operating room. If you have not seen this show, I highly recommend it! (Image- Grey’s Anatomy. IMD.b.com 15 January 2026)
Lilliana Godfrey is a sophomore at Indiana University and is an exercise science major and Pre-PA! It is her second year at Media Services and she cannot wait for the upcoming semesters!
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