Analyzing the Confusing Sexual Harassment Storyline in Netflix’s ‘Pulse’

So, we need to talk about the bizarre sexual harassment storyline in Netflix’s ‘Pulse.’ If you jumped ship early on this series (and I don’t blame you), you might be wondering how it all played out.

Here’s the breakdown: Dr. Danny Simms (played by Will Fitzgerald) files a complaint against Chief Resident Dr. Xander Phillips (Colin Woodell) right out of the gate. The reasons behind this move aren’t immediately clear, but it sets off a chain of events that dominate much of the season.

What follows is a tangled web of workplace drama, jealousy, and power dynamics. Dr. Simms and Dr. Phillips find themselves in a complicated romance, with Simms feeling the weight of the power imbalance keenly. She’s hesitant to report their relationship to HR because she fears the consequences for her career.

The unexpected twist here is that while the situation is undeniably messy, Dr. Phillips isn’t exactly guilty of harassment. He doesn’t abuse his power or retaliate when she pushes back. So, when Dr. Simms files a complaint, it leaves viewers scratching their heads.

As the story unfolds, we see Dr. Phillips’s wealthy and influential family getting involved in an attempt to discredit Dr. Simms. Meanwhile, Dr. Cruz (played by Justina Machado) steps in to shake up the power dynamics at the hospital.

In the end, Dr. Simms is promoted to Chief Resident, but that decision is short-lived. Dr. Elijah (Jessie T. Usher) ultimately takes over the role, leaving the door open for a potential romance between Dr. Simms and Dr. Phillips in a hypothetical second season.

However, with lackluster ratings and scathing reviews, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see that second season. ‘Pulse’ debuted to lukewarm numbers and hasn’t gained much momentum since. It’s a shame for the talented cast, but sometimes even the best actors can’t salvage a poorly executed storyline.