In the seventh episode of The Good Doctor, titled "22 Steps," the series delves into the themes of empathy and understanding, focusing on how Shaun Murphy connects with a patient who also has autism. The episode begins with a challenging case involving an autistic teenager who needs life-saving heart surgery but resists the procedure due to his condition. Shaun immediately recognizes the patient's discomfort and steps in to advocate for his needs, emphasizing the importance of considering the patient's unique perspective.
This episode stands out for its sensitive portrayal of autism, both through Shaun and the teenage patient. Freddie Highmore delivers a powerful performance, capturing Shaun's deep empathy for the patient while also highlighting the frustrations he faces when his insights are dismissed by his colleagues. The direction by David Straiton is particularly effective in conveying the emotional weight of the story, using close-up shots and a muted color palette to reflect the subdued yet intense atmosphere of the hospital.
The script by Thomas L. Moran carefully navigates the complexities of the case, balancing the medical challenges with the emotional struggles of the characters. The episode's pacing is steady, allowing the tension to build gradually as the surgery approaches. One of the most striking scenes occurs when Shaun calmly explains to the team why the patient is resisting the procedure, offering insights that only someone with Shaun's experience could provide. This moment not only deepens the audience's understanding of Shaun's character but also underscores the importance of empathy in medicine.
However, "22 Steps" is not without its shortcomings. The subplot involving Dr. Jared Kalu and Dr. Claire Browne feels somewhat disconnected from the main narrative, lacking the emotional depth of Shaun's storyline. Additionally, the resolution of the patient's case, while satisfying, is somewhat predictable, relying on a conventional "breakthrough" moment to resolve the conflict.
Despite these minor issues, "22 Steps" is a poignant and thought-provoking episode that continues to explore the unique challenges Shaun faces as a doctor with autism. The episode's emphasis on empathy and understanding, combined with Highmore's standout performance, makes it a memorable installment that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level.
