Ratched is a psychological thriller and drama series created by Evan Romansky and developed by Ryan Murphy. The Netflix series takes inspiration from the character of Nurse Mildred Ratched from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and gives her a new backstory.
Set in 1947, the story follows Mildred Ratched as she arrives at Lucia State Hospital and begins working as a nurse. Behind her polished appearance, however, she hides a much darker personality and complicated motivations.
Ratched Story
The series begins when Mildred Ratched gets a job at a psychiatric hospital that is preparing to receive Edmund Tolleson, a notorious killer.
As Mildred becomes involved with the hospital’s doctors, patients and staff, her carefully planned life starts becoming increasingly complicated.
The story combines psychological suspense, crime, mystery and horror, while gradually revealing more about Mildred’s past and the people around her.
Ratched Cast
The main cast includes:
- Sarah Paulson as Mildred Ratched
- Finn Wittrock as Edmund Tolleson
- Cynthia Nixon as Gwendolyn Briggs
- Sharon Stone as Lenore Osgood
- Judy Davis as Nurse Betsy Bucket
- Jon Jon Briones as Dr. Richard Hanover
- Charlie Carver as Huck Finnigan
Sarah Paulson’s Performance
Sarah Paulson is the centre of the series. Her performance gives Mildred Ratched a controlled and mysterious personality, while the story slowly reveals different sides of the character.
The performance was one of the elements that received attention from critics, although the overall critical response to the season was mixed. Rotten Tomatoes currently lists a 61% Tomatometer score from 100 reviews.
What Works in Ratched?
One of the biggest strengths is the visual style. The series has an elegant period look, detailed costumes and strong production design.
The mystery surrounding Mildred also gives the early episodes a strong hook. Each episode adds another piece to her story while introducing new conflicts inside the hospital.
The series also benefits from its ensemble cast, particularly Sarah Paulson, Finn Wittrock, Sharon Stone and Cynthia Nixon.
What Doesn’t Work?
The show isn’t a straightforward psychological thriller. It mixes several styles and storylines, and some critics felt that its plot became overly complicated.
Rotten Tomatoes’ critics consensus specifically praised its style and performances while criticizing some of its plot holes and exaggerated characterization.
So, viewers looking for a realistic medical drama may have a different experience from viewers who enjoy stylized psychological horror and dark mystery.
⭐ Ratched Series Rating
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| IMDb | ⭐ 7.2/10 |
| Rotten Tomatoes Critics | 61% |
| FlixBabaMovies Rating | ⭐ 3.5/5 |
IMDb currently lists the series at 7.2/10 from around 81,000 ratings.
Ratched Episodes
Season 1 contains 8 episodes, all released on Netflix on September 18, 2020.
The episodes follow Mildred’s arrival at Lucia State Hospital and the increasingly dangerous situations surrounding her, Edmund and the hospital staff.
Is Ratched Worth Watching?
If you enjoy psychological thrillers, dark mysteries, period dramas and Sarah Paulson’s performances, Ratched offers an interesting watch.
Its biggest appeal is its combination of stylish visuals, dark characters and psychological suspense. However, its unusual tone and multiple storylines may not work for viewers who prefer straightforward storytelling.
Where to Watch Ratched
Ratched Season 1 is available on Netflix and contains 8 episodes. Netflix currently lists the series as TV-MA/16+ depending on region.
Final Verdict
Ratched takes a famous fictional character and builds a completely different story around her early years. The result is a stylish, dark and sometimes disturbing psychological thriller led by Sarah Paulson.
The series is particularly interesting for viewers who like Netflix thriller series, psychological horror, mystery shows and character-driven dramas.
FlixBabaMovies Rating: ⭐ 3.5/5
FAQs
Is Ratched a Netflix series?
Yes. Ratched is a Netflix drama and psychological thriller series.
How many episodes are in Ratched Season 1?
Season 1 has 8 episodes.
Who plays Nurse Ratched?
Sarah Paulson plays Nurse Mildred Ratched.
What is Ratched about?
The series follows Mildred Ratched as she begins working at a psychiatric hospital in 1947, where her dark personality and complicated past gradually emerge.
What is Ratched’s IMDb rating?
The series currently has an IMDb rating of 7.2/10.
Where can I watch Ratched?
Ratched is available to stream on Netflix.
