Congratulations are in order for all of this year's hard-working residency grads. But one group stands out for memorializing the achievement in a 12-minute film that is, yes, sufficiently entertaining and accomplished that it can be recommended for viewing by the community at large.
This notable work was produced by residency grads from the University of Southern California with no help from USC’s famous film school. In fact, with a camcorder, computer and $100 worth of editing software (in this case, Studio by Pinnacle Systems), "anybody can do it," said Dr. David Wood, a leader of the project and future USC fellow in vascular and interventional radiology.
The film includes standard testimonials from USC’s attending radiologists, who were indeed asked to exaggerate the merits of their students. "We're an OK class," but "probably not the best they've ever seen," said Wood.
The exaggeration works well, however, in what is ultimately an over-the-top parody of residency life that many can appreciate. Thanks to special effects, music and some crisp editing, the film captures the groovy exuberance of a 1970s cop show while eschewing the syrupy sentimentality of a 1980s medical drama.
It also makes its mockery with excerpts from familiar Hollywood films. (Top acting honors go to the neo-radiologist playing opposite Bruce Willis in the supernatural thriller, The Sixth Sense.)
So check out this gem of the very small screen, and happy graduation to all.
By Tracie L. ThompsonAuntMinnie.com contributing writer
June 23, 2003
(Note: A high-speed Internet connection is recommended for faster downloading of the 28 MB wmv-format movie file. Download time exceeds 90 minutes on a standard dialup connection.)
Copyright © 2003 AuntMinnie.com
