Super High Resolution at Soho Theatre

With reports that the NHS is in a worse position now than during the beginning of the pandemic, Super High Resolution could not have arrived at a more pertinent time. Writer Nathan Ellis shines a spotlight on the British institution and offers an urgent and unflinching exploration of it through the eyes of a struggling junior doctor.

While Anna deals with the daily conveyer belt of patients and the unrelenting pressures that come with the job, she begins to spiral under the stress. Constantly questioning whether she can continue or if leaving medicine might be the antidote she needs, Anna finds herself burnt out and at a crossroads. As her personal and professional life intertwine, we witness the breakdown of someone who simply wants to help people. But is she capable of helping herself?

The cohesive cast elevate an expertly crafted script. Jasmine Blackborow is wonderfully engaging as the junior doctor. We fully believe in and invest ourselves in this character’s journey, willing her to finally put herself first and survive. Blackborow manages to contain so much pent-up emotion, allowing a concealed fragility to hammer away at the composed exterior she presents to the world. As Anna’s sister Becca, Leah Whitaker offers a nuanced, naturalistic portrayal, with the two characters sharing a convincing relationship which morphs between childlike bickering and genuine love. Lewis Shepherd, who makes an incredibly assured stage debut as Anna’s love interest David, is endearing, with the actor oozing effortless charm.

There is strong support from Catherine Cusack as the demanding no-nonsense hospital consultant who overloads Anna and is very much of the “stiff-upper-lip” mentality. Hayley Carmichael’s portrayal of a suicidal patient has the auditorium enveloped in emotive silence. LJ Johnson completes the ensemble as Becca’s stepdaughter. Contemplating a career in medicine, the character’s idealistic naivety counter-balances Anna’s disillusionment.

While there will inevitably be comparisons to Adam Kay’s This is Going to Hurt, Ellis possesses a distinctive writing style which fluently interweaves humour with staunch realism. The writer paints a stark picture of the NHS and knows when to be economical with his writing and when to linger on the heavier moments. The result is an important, timely and memorable production. Exquisitely acted, and with meticulous direction by Blanche McIntyre, Super High Resolution is must-see theatre.

Jonathan Marshall

Super High Resolution is at Soho Theatre from 27^th October until 3^rd December 2022. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.