Brilliant Minds Season 2 Episode 1 “The Phantom Hook” Review: Porsha Williams Surprises in a Strong Premiere

Brilliant Minds has been one of my favorite new shows to talk about last fall. There are so many medical dramas out there and this series felt like something new. With Zachary Quinto taking on the lead as Dr. Wolfe, a doctor who saw his patients as people even with his disability of having face blindness, this show really had compelling stories in its freshman run. I was thrilled when NBC renewed it (after many months of holding my breath). 

Now, one of my favorite shows is back and if episode one of this new season is any indication of what we are in store for, sign me all the way up. The episode opens with Dr. Wolfe trying to escape Hudson Oaks, a mental hospital and we get a title card saying “SIX MONTHS EARLIER” so now we will spend the season leading up to why he was admitted. I love reverse storytelling (looking at you Sinners). 

Back at the hospital Nash is deep in his new ER rotation and we are introduced to the new Dr. Thorne (played by John Clarence Stewart). He seems chill with a side of he’s got a story going on but you know who is smug and annoying and will be the villain this season? Dr. Charlie Porter (played by Brian Altemus). He is more than just a plant from Oliver’s mother and I have a feeling he is the reason Wolfe ends up at that mental hospital run by none other than Dr. Frank (Bellamy Young). Whenever I see Bellamy Young, I know her character is one I will love to hate. 

Oliver’s patient this week is a boxer (Tommy) with a phantom hand syndrome who cannot control his right arm and violently loses control and ends up punching himself and even doctors. In true Oliver fashion, he meets his patient where he is more comfortable. He visits the gym and gets involved in his personal life to cure what ails him. After testing and group discussions, we learn that Tommy has Parkinson's and his father and family doctor were hiding that from him so he can continue to fight. 

The issues with Tommy and his father mirrored that of Oliver and his dad. Oliver had been avoiding going home and dealing with his father but also pushing his mother to order an expensive test for him to find out what is going on. It was a disappointment that we did not get to see Oliver’s dad all episode and when Oliver finally did return home, his father left him a Dear John letter. This guy definitely isn’t winning any father of the year awards anytime soon. 

Some side stories I enjoyed, Erica coming back looking refreshed but taking pills to cope. Porsha Williams (Real Housewives) makes her debut this episode as a patient of Carol’s who trivial problems forces Carol to get her job back at the hospital after being put on leave. I will say I thought Porsha would be cringe in the role, but she did good. No notes Porsha. 

Josh and Oliver’s will they, won’t they story continues and the sexual tension is at a peak and I am absolutely here for it. The snide comments back and forth while they clearly love each other is the type of love story that I live for. The moment when Tommy's father looked like he was going to attack Oliver and Josh came out of nowhere like a protective boyfriend and threatened him; chef's kiss. One last thing, it is always so weird to see Donna Murphy as Oliver’s mother because she is now and will always be Mrs. Astor on The Gilded Age. 

Overall, a great season opener, reminding the audience why we love this show so much. What did you think? Drop a comment. 

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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