The Knick (HBO)

About The Knick (HBO)

"The Knick" is a period drama series that aired on Cinemax from 2014 to 2015. It explores the professional and personal lives of the staff of the Knickerbocker Hospital (simply called 'The Knick') in New York City during the early 20th century. The series shows the drama, desperation, and beauty in one of history's most incredible scientific revolutions: the medical profession.

Making / Production

The series was created by Jack Amiel and Michael Begler. Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh served as director, cinematographer, and editor. The show was filmed in New York City, featuring both period-appropriate sets and visual effects to recreate the 1900s.

Actors

• Clive Owen as Dr. John Thackery: Owen portrayed a visionary surgeon, whose habits push him to the brink of destruction.
• André Holland as Dr. Algernon Edwards: Holland played a talented African-American surgeon who fights for respect in a predominantly white hospital.
• Juliet Rylance as Cornelia Robertson: Rylance embodied the hospital's head of social welfare, who also manages her family's philanthropic work.
• Michael Angarano as Dr. Bertram Chickering Jr.: Angarano shiningly portrays a young surgeon, eager to prove his worth and make his mark in medicine.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The show was filmed entirely in New York City, providing it with its authentic look and feel.
• To prepare for their roles, the cast shadowed surgeons at modern hospitals.
• The series is notable for its historically accurate portrayal of early 20th-century medical procedures.

Quotes

• "Surgery isn’t a pastime. It’s a necessity." - Dr. John Thackery
• "Hell of a time to be a doctor. Hell of a time." - Nurse Elkins.

Music, Soundtrack

• Cliff Martinez composed the electronic minimalist score for the series. His work was critically acclaimed and is considered to be an essential part of the show's unique identity.
• The soundtrack combines ambient soundscapes with period-appropriate music, providing the show with its tense and atmospheric tone.

Awards

Despite its brief run, "The Knick" received critical acclaim and multiple awards. Clive Owen's commanding performance earned an Emmy nomination and the series received a Peabody Award for its distinguished achievement in storytelling.