Getting On

About Getting On

"Getting On" is an American television comedy series based on the British series of the same name. It was shown on HBO from November 2013 to December 2015. The series is set in the geriatric wing of a struggling hospital and follows a team of doctors and nurses as they navigate the challenges of working in this less-than-glamorous environment.

Making / Production

The series is produced by HBO and Anima Sola Productions. It was adapted by Mark V. Olsen and Will Scheffer who also serve as executive producers alongside Jane Tranter and Julie Gardner. The pilot episode was directed by Howard Deutch, who became a regular director on the series.

Actors

• Laurie Metcalf: Played the role of Dr. Jenna James, the hospital's director of medicine. Her portrayal was both funny and poignant, representing the frustrations and challenges of working in a struggling healthcare system.
• Alex Borstein: Played the role of Nurse Dawn Forchette, who is often caught in the middle of hospital disputes. She expertly brought complexity and humanity to the part.
• Niecy Nash: She appeared as Nurse DiDi Ortley, who brings warmth and sanity to the chaotic ward. Despite her lack of experience, she often seems to be the only one who genuinely cares about the patients.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series is based on a similarly titled British comedy that aired on BBC Four from 2009 to 2012.
• Despite its humor, the series is deeply rooted in reality, exposing many of the issues that plague the American healthcare system.

Awards

Although never a ratings powerhouse, "Getting On" received critical acclaim and several award nominations, including two Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for Niecy Nash and Laurie Metcalf.

Quotes

• "Medicine is not a buffet. You can't just cruise along, picking and choosing." - Dr. Jenna James
• "I'm a nurse. We're about more than just bedpans and injections." - Nurse DiDi Ortley
• "I don't know why God would give you a big heart and a big ass and not a big brain to go with it." - Nurse Dawn Forchette

Music, Soundtrack

• The opening and closing theme is a track called "Tremble and Tear" by Camera Obscura.
• The soundtrack features a mix of light-hearted and dramatic music, reflecting the show's unique balance of comedy and drama. It is composed by David Yazbek.