User Reviews

First of all, when Elaine heads off to Pompeii, it's refreshing to see a new person there. This woman is actually competent, even though she's a bit quirky. Apparently, he last job was in a vet's office. Martin is angry that she just stepped in for Elaine and he is quite nasty to her. There are two interesting cases. One is an elderly neighbor of Joan's who has sprained her ankle. Joan tells Martin that the lady's son is trying to get her into a nursing home because of dementia. She doesn't seem to fill the bill, so he refuses to support things. This leads to complications, testing his medical acuity. The other is a big fisherman who has had to see a doctor seventeen times in two years. He has fractures, burns, muscle tears, and all manner of injuries. The conclusion is quite hilarious. There is also the reunion of Louisa and a serious boyfriend. And, that nutty policeman spends his time looking for a mugger.

When this show begins, it's obvious that Martin Ellingham is a different sort. He tells folks to bugger off (that's VERY rude indeed) and often yells at people! He also thinks he knows everything--and often this IS the case!

Martin has two cases in this one that are perplexing. First, he's been asked to do a quick mental status exam on an old lady. Her nephew insists she's batty and needs to be put in a nursing home. However, she seems totally normal to the Doctor. What gives?! Second, a local man has gotten injured---and when Martin checks the man's records, he notices that he's getting hurt all the time! Yet, when he tries to discuss this with the guy and his wife, they quickly leave in a huff. What gives?! Hint...it's kind of creepy!!

In addition to these cases, you see hints that he is afflicted with an odd psychological problem for a doctor--hemophobia. In other words, at the sight of blood, he becomes violently ill!! This was definitely NOT the case with the other Doc Martin!

Overall, this is an enjoyable episode--one that is worth seeing.