This is the episode that finally hooked me on the “Doc Martin” show. Apparently, that is not surprising when I see it was ranked as the third favorite episode by the fans who voted on PortwennOnline. I had enjoyed the series to this point, but this episode really showed what a fine and committed physician Martin is and we saw that there was hope that future series would likely show us more of a relationship between Martin and Louisa. These two seemed to be very interesting characters who would have a unique way of interacting. It made me want to see more.

We learned a little more about Martin’s blood phobia and how traumatic it was for him that he was forced to give up surgery. That was emphasized as he explained to Louisa that surgery “was the only thing I was ever any good at.” He seems to see himself as not having much value anymore, but it appears that Louisa does not agree with that assessment.

In addition to the memorable kiss in the taxi, Louisa revealed how much she cared for and respected Martin by standing up for him in her confrontation with Adrian Pitts.

Then, she makes her memorable speech, whose point she gradually seems to forget over the next five series until she finally realizes it again at the end of Series 7.
“Maybe the truth is that people like Peter, they’re never going to quite fit in. They’re never going to quite be ordinary and maybe that’s not such a bad thing. And maybe that’s why we love the Peters of this world.”

Then, although the episode ends with a rift between Martin and Louisa, it concludes with more beautiful shots of Cornish landscape and harbor views. I had to come back for more.

Well said Sue….

I think there’s always been a tension between “we love the Peters of this world because they’re special” and “but they’re so darned hard to live with and their quirks can also be very offputting.” The balance shifted toward the latter in S5 and S6, but yes, exactly right, that’s the conclusion she came to again, this time after hard experience had taught her what she really wanted and needed.

This episode has always been my favourite episode. One of the scenes I love the best is the one where Louisa gets back into the hospital to lecture Adrian Pitts. That’s one character I’d like to see back in series 8, to see how he developed. Maybe he learnt his lesson and developed into a brilliant surgeon. Very funny moment was when Adrian asks for a favour and where Martin says ‘He thinks you are an a…, I think you are an a… And finally, when Pitts goes away, he adds: a…
Martin shows his medical skills and even excuses for his bad behaviour in the morning, I liked that!
I liked the real interest Louisa showed in Martin’s story. Pitty that Martin ruined the moment in the taxi, but without that, we woulf have been stuck with only one episode.
Finally, I agree with Sue, what a stunning shot at the end. Clearly detected the ‘we want more’ feeling that hooked us to the series.

Defineatly one of my all time favorite episodes with the unforgetable kiss in the taxi at the end. But this time on rewatch I was drawn to how intense the ambulance scene was played. It felt like the Doc took strength from having Louisa by his side, telling her about his blood problem and then having to get past it to help Peter. I was on the edge of my seat even though I have scene this episode a few times already. Amazing acting!

TYVM you’ve solved all my proeblms