

Hippocrates
Benjamin is meant to be a great doctor, he’s certain of it. But his first experience as a junior doctor in the hospital ward where his father works doesn’t turn out the way he hoped it would. Responsibility is overwhelming, his father is all but present, and his co-junior partner, a foreign doctor, is far more experimented than he is. This internship will force Benjamin to confront his limits… and start his way to adulthood.
Insights
Plot Summary
Benjamin, a young and ambitious medical student, is thrilled to begin his internship at a Parisian hospital. However, his idealism quickly clashes with the harsh reality of the understaffed and overburdened public health system. He finds himself under the wing of Dr. Abdel Rezzak, an experienced foreign doctor whose unconventional methods challenge Benjamin's by-the-book training. Together, they navigate the complex and often chaotic world of emergency medicine, facing life-and-death situations while grappling with their own limitations and the system's failings.
Critical Reception
Hippocrates received widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its realistic portrayal of the French public healthcare system and its engaging blend of drama and dark humor. Critics praised the strong performances of its lead actors, particularly Vincent Macaigne and Reda Kateb, and its unflinching look at the pressures faced by both doctors and patients. The film was seen as a significant contribution to contemporary French cinema, offering both a compelling narrative and social commentary.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its authentic and often humorous depiction of hospital life.
- Applauded for the strong chemistry and performances of its lead actors.
- Noted for its insightful commentary on the challenges within public healthcare systems.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's realistic and engaging portrayal of a busy hospital, with many highlighting the compelling performances and the blend of humor and drama. Some viewers found the pacing occasionally uneven, but the overall sentiment was positive, with a strong recommendation for its honest look at the medical profession.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Most Promising Actor (Vincent Macaigne) at the César Awards.
Fun Fact
Director Thomas Lilti, who is a practicing doctor himself, drew heavily on his own experiences to create the authentic and often gritty portrayal of hospital life seen in the film.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources