‘Midnight Family’ Recap: ‘Ramón, the Angel’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Joaquín Cosío as Ramón Tamayo in Episode 104 of ‘Midnight Family’ – ‘Ramón, the Angel’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode Four of ‘Midnight Family’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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It is quickly becoming apparent that the refreshing new Apple TV+ series, Midnight Family, is looking to accomplish something quite unique with its story. In that, not only is it eager to shed light upon the life and times of the paramedics that work for a living in Mexico City, courtesy of its trash health care system, but it is also eager to do something that few stories in this vein have ever done and humanize first responders. For we do tend to hold them in high regard, rightfully so, because they are heroes. But this series wants to make sure we are fully aware of the fat, that they are people first.

Who have hopes and dreams and suffer through tough times like the rest of us. Not to degrade or demystify mind you, but to shine a light on the fact that they choose to put that aside and be heroes, and never was that more evident during the next episode in this saga. For ‘Ramón, the Angel’ took us out of the Tamayo family ambulance to really look at their lives like never before. To accomplish that goal and to tell us a very human story. One that showcased… that even heroes face scrutiny. Since Gaby was confronted about footage that showed her saving lives during the earthquake and that put her in a tough spot. Since it was the brass at the school that questioned whether or not she was going to choose school or the family business.

Not to mention, it also focused on Marcus’ needs and wants in life, and how he more or less wants to start a family. Granted, his love may not share that want, but it was indeed fascinating to see this side of Marcus and uncover what it would mean to him to start something of his own. Plus, we also saw some of the impact this lifestyle has upon young minds. Since Julio was struggling here with his schoolwork because he cared little about normal life, and just wanted to be on the truck, in the thick of it and saving lives like the rest of his family. All of which gave rise to very human stories. But truly, the centerpiece journey here involved Ramón. Because this hero, this warrior of sorts… was in a perilous place emotionally. Mainly because he was sidelined completely here and unable to save lives under doctor’s orders.

Which made him listless, angry and eager to get back to that world. And it also made him quite reflective upon the choices he’s made and the path he’s taken. Because he truly was looking at his own mortality for the first time, and he no longer felt invincible and that scared him, and well… that made for a powerful journey that put him at an emotional crossroads as well. Because eventually the time arrived for his surgery and that terrified him. Because he knew enough about his condition, knew the risk of the surgery and knew that this could be his end because of so many factors. Which prompted him to say kind words to his children, his ex-wife, and the godfather of his children. Just to be safe in the event the worst-case scenario took place, and it may well have.

Because shortly after having his stent installed, with his daughter in the room no less, Ramón’s heart seemingly gave out. Forcing his family to also face mortality and the possibility that their ambulance may soon be one paramedic lighter. All of which brought forth, a powerful story. One that truly stripped away the mythos we surround first responders with and showcased the people they are, and the struggles they face when they’re not saving lives. And it did so in an incredible manner, one that felt real and even featured moments of humor and joy, most of which came from that church scene and well, all this episode does is leave us eager for the next. So, we can learn if Ramón pulled through or if this story is going to move into a powerful new direction. Until next time.

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