How Do They Film All That Drama?
So, you've binge-watched Chicago Med, and you're wondering how they manage to cram so much medical mayhem into one hour? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the glamorous world of TV production. Or at least, as glamorous as it gets when someone's heart is literally about to explode.
It's All About the Sets
Let's start with the obvious: the hospital. You'd think they'd just pick a real one, right? Wrong. While Rush University Medical Center does get a cameo now and then for some exterior shots, most of the magic happens in a place called Cinespace Chicago Film Studios. That's right, they've built entire floors of a hospital, complete with operating rooms, ERs, and even a morgue (yummy). It's like a giant, soundproof playground for grown-ups pretending to be doctors and nurses.
The Art of Fake Blood
Now, let's talk about the pièce de résistance: the blood. It's not just ketchup, people. There's an entire science (or art?) to creating blood that looks convincingly real without being a slip-and-slide hazard. Apparently, it's a mix of corn syrup, food coloring, and other secret ingredients that make it look like someone just got their head chopped off. And don't even get me started on the special effects makeup artists who can turn a perfectly normal person into a walking, talking zombie in a matter of minutes.
The Real Doctors: Consultants
You might be wondering how they get the medical stuff so right. Well, it's not just scriptwriters with a knack for Googling symptoms. They have actual doctors on set, called medical consultants. These real-life heroes make sure that the procedures and diagnoses are as accurate as possible. So, the next time you're cringing during a particularly gruesome surgery, remember that there's probably a doctor in the corner nodding approvingly.
The Unsung Heroes: The Crew
Of course, none of this would be possible without the incredible crew behind the scenes. From the camera operators who capture every dramatic moment to the sound engineers who make sure you can hear every heartbeat, they're the unsung heroes of the show. And let's not forget the scriptwriters, who somehow manage to come up with new and exciting medical emergencies every week.
How To...
- How to become a TV doctor? Study hard, get into medical school, and then hope to land a role on a popular medical drama. Or, you know, just watch a lot of TV.
- How to make fake blood? Don't bother. It's probably a closely guarded secret. Plus, you'll probably end up with sticky hands.
- How to survive a medical emergency on TV? Don't get sick on camera. It's probably not covered by insurance.
- How to get a job on a TV set? Network, network, network. And maybe learn a trade like camera operating or sound engineering.
- How to appreciate TV shows more? Remember that there are real people working hard behind the scenes to bring you entertainment.