The Last Breakthrough (2004)

Be awfully touched and humbled by this timeless medical gem

"I’ve practiced as a doctor for so long. I’ve never been so emotional. I’ve never used such an unscientific method to save a life. That feeling was so wonderful."

Story:
Rewatching after more than a decade, this is a gem for medical drama on medical professionals working in a large established hospital looking after the rich and famous, in a neighbourhood medical centre taking care of neighbourhood folks, and on doctors without borders volunteering at feudal, resource- and disease- stricken Africa (and rural Guangxi) providing medical humanitarian assistance for the needy locals.

Against the backdrop of the arid great African plains and the tenacious and fragile lives of the local folks, be awfully touched by the breathtaking majestic nature (snow-capped Kilimanjaro and herds of pink flamingos), to the simple excitement of welcoming new life, locals accepting and getting vaccinations, and be reminded that happiness is not a right, and to only be appreciative of and to treasure what and who we have, but to also help others as much as we can.

Back from missions, peppering the slice-of-life moments as medical professionals in the neighbourhood medical centre are heartwarming and meaningful moments with the patients, colleagues-friends and families.

This is a not-to-be-missed drama and a comfort drama on medical ethics, on crossing the doctor’s line to help patients and at the same time on finding the real meaning of life, family and friends, and living life to the fullest and without regrets.

Acting/Cast:
The cast can't be better. This is one of Nick’s last few dramas, and he charmed as the chivalrous and friendly neighbourhood doctor who sincerely care for his patients from the rich and famous, to the neighbourhood folks and the needy locals on his medical missions. Raymond and Leila were a couple that would have you rooting for them when they first met. Leila and Sonija were refreshing in their short bob hair. Plus see Kenneth Ma and Bosco Wong in their early years at TVB, well before they helmed lead roles.

Music:
I seldom pay attention to music in a drama, but not this. The soulful theme song sung by Raymond, with meaningful lyrics transports one right back to the medical missions, to how tiny yet important life is amidst wilderness.

Rewatch Value:
This is a comfort, timeless drama with many heartwarming and meaningful moments, that is worth rewatching periodically.

This drama is available on TVB YouTube channel in either English subtitles or Chinese dubbing

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