SkyMed Season 2 Episode 6, “Little Lies,” is back on the overdramatics, and it’s not a great look for the show. While it’s true that the stakes would be high in such an environment, episodes like this stretch the imagination to such a degree where engagement is difficult. This episode also gets away from the ensemble, which puts each of the characters in precarious positions. There is a lot of opportunity that’s missed in this story.
It makes sense to highlight what this episode misses. Tristan (Kheon Clarke) and Nowak (Thomas Elms) could easily be a relationship worth investing in. As previously mentioned, it makes sense that there would be a lot of romances and flings among co-workers. However, this episode really drives home the reason why there is such a block to investing in this relationship. There could be so much more to this relationship with so much potential, particularly against the backdrop of this story.
Unfortunately, the theatrics on this episode take away from what could be a really grounded story about trust and betrayal in the context of a relationship. While a petty reaction may be reasonable at the moment, this is starting to become a pattern for Nowak. The story here truly highlights that Nowak is really the worst kind of person and by far the weakest member of this ensemble. While this character is entitled to his initial reaction, of course, the fact that he isn’t able to break out of his emotional mind makes it difficult to fully empathize with him.
SkyMed Season 2 Episode 6, “Little Lies,” also fails to set up Hayley’s (Natasha Calis) story in a meaningful way. Showing her as a party girl losing her inhibitions is a woefully inauthentic portrayal of early addiction, particularly after being prescribed medication to manage post-operative pain. Her story is ultimately woefully inadequate, considering the gravity of the path this character is currently on.
As previously mentioned, in order for this story to resonate, it needs to be told with authenticity. There is plenty of opportunity to comment on the opioid crisis in Canada. Unfortunately, these opportunities continue to be missed. The story could show Hayley trying her hardest to get access to a primary care physician who can adequately prescribe medication for pain management. The character could also be shown not getting taken seriously as a patient due to her gender. This episode trivializes this character’s story, and it’s disappointing.
Finally, while the story of Bodie (Aason Nadjiwon) reconnecting with his father has been hinted at for a while now throughout this series, this season in particular, it does not bode well for the story that there has been so little development on this front. While it makes sense to go slow with this story, it feels as though everything is going to come together all at once in a really jarring way. Considering that there is little time left in the season, it feels like time is running out to tell this story in a compelling way.
SkyMed remains frustrating as a whole package. These are compelling characters who can each carry their own stories. It is a shame that the powers that be do not let them grow into all they could be. There is a solid foundation here. Hopefully, it is not too late in the season to right the ship.
SkyMed airs Sundays at 9/8c on CBC.