‘Midnight Family’ Recap: ‘The Earthquake’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Diego Calva and Renata Vaca as Marcus Tamayo and Marigaby Tamayo in Episode 103 of ‘Midnight Family’ – ‘The Earthquake’. (Photo Courtesy of Apple.)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 103 of ‘Midnight Family’. To revisit the Series Premiere, click here.
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When we think of stories about natural disasters that revolve around people caught up in the midst of one, we think of epics, really. For so many of those stories in print or on the screen, are grandiose in nature. To properly showcase the incredible impact of a natural disaster since they do indeed touch many lives and cross borders and shock the nation or a world, depending upon their severity. So, the story in question should reflect that. It should show us a bevy of characters from all walks of life who come to understand how small we are and how we are at the mercy of a world that will forever be stronger than us. All of which does make for a satisfying story, but in many ways, neglects some genuinely important moments and people because of how broad these stories are.

Which is why this week’s episode of Midnight Family on Apple TV+ is of note. Simply because ‘The Earthquake’ offered up a refreshing take on the disaster story, by showcasing something we don’t think of often in these stories or in these events… the first responders. But we should. Because they are on the front lines and they deal with some of the toughest moments possible in a natural disaster, and it is a shame it took this long to showcase them and their work. Because putting them front and center in this story, made for a powerful and moving story about what really happens in those critical first moments, and much like a real natural disaster, we really didn’t have an idea this was coming to the story. Especially since it opened with Gaby and Marcus talking about their father’s progress while preparing for another long night of saving lives.

But just like that, a massive earthquake hit, one that badly damaged a market that the family ambulance was near and just like that… we were plunged into a world we know nothing of. Wherein Marcus had to play the hero and handle on site triage. Because of the fact that government resources had not arrived yet, and only a handful of paramedics were on scene. So, we saw firsthand how first responders are forced to make hyper fast decisions they cannot think twice about, and how quickly they are forced to move from patient to patient, and the many roles they play in that moment. Which helped us to understand the talent Marcus has as a paramedic, and the good nature he harbors within. Since he also did everything within his power to help a kid find his mother in the rubble, risking pure life and limb to do so. Something we also don’t think about when it comes to first responders.

As for Gaby, well… it was her duty to remain outside and tend to the wounded, and that too… showcased some powerful moments. Wherein we saw Gaby face down some awful injuries and make hard choices about who received triage. Because that is another aspect of the job that is not discussed, and this also showcased her skills as a doctor and a leader. Since so many saw her as the head doctor in the middle of this chaos. But truly where her journey shined, was in the emotion that it brought forth. Because not only were we treated to a doctor-to-be and paramedic that cared and went the extra mile to save lives. But we saw the emotional impact of such chaos. Because first responders are humans too, and they cannot just flip off of their emotions, and it was refreshing to see Gaby take a moment, and grieve and process.

Not to mention, this episode also made a point to catch up with Julio and Ramón and see how they were handling the chaos in the hospital, as it filled with emergency patients, and well… they stepped up and did their best to help. Because they too cared and wanted people to be healed. All of which brought forth an amazing and different kind of disaster tale. One that finally showcased what first responders deal with during natural disasters, and that was quite the sight to see. Since it informed us of the genuine bravery that goes into such work, and the fearless nature of those who choose to help others, and of course, we got a great story. One that was compelling and powerful, and it will be interesting to see what other refreshing moments and unique concepts will be explored as season one of this magnificent series continues along. Until next time.  

Learn more about the construction of ‘Midnight Family’ via our interview with Showrunner Natalia Beristáin.

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