This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labour of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie/series/feature being covered here wouldn't exist.
"Virgin River is back with season five, and it’s the most exciting and emotional season yet."
BY ROMEY NORTON SEPTEMBER 7, 2023
This drama show first began in 2019 and followed a nurse practitioner seeking a fresh start. Melinda (Mel) moved from Los Angeles to a remote town in Northern California to work in a small doctors practise and start a new life.
We’ve watched Mel face her demons, help her patients, and fall in love. As well as making new friends, and trying to start a new family, she’s become an integral part of the town and has no intention of leaving. This season will start with a 10-episode run, then the last two hours of Season 5's 12-episode order will drop Nov. 30 as holiday episodes.
Season 4 cliff-hanger saw Charmaine reveal that her twins are, in fact, not Jack’s. Shaking and startling Jack, and we see his reaction to the news in the beginning parts of the latest season. As it continues there are even more emotional rollercoasters when it comes to Jack and Mel’s baby/love life so get the tissues ready. Doc’s estranged grandson continues to make a life in the town, whilst Doc's eyes deteriorate he’s trying desperately to find his replacement for the town. Dr Cameron is still adjusting to his role as replacing Doc, and a romance blossoms between him and another town member. Jack’s sister faces her attacker in court, causing rifts between relationships. Preacher's drama comes to a conclusion, and someone notices his fine culinary skills, offering him a job in another state.
There are two major drama’s in this season, one episode see’s a dramatic, devastating wildfire putting the whole town in jeopardy and it's up to everyone to pull together to save it. We see Hope interfering, as always, but when it comes to the safety of her town, she’s unstoppable and I think everyone is grateful for her persistent wats.
The second see’s the return of Melissa Montgomery who was introduced in season 4. She is the head of Emerald Lumber, but she is not one to trust and has a vendetta for our favourite barman. The acting is that of any soap/drama, so sometimes it feels cheesy and subpar, but it isn’t devastating or detrimental. The story lines are well carried, and easy to follow.
Over-all It’s exciting, emotional and equally entertaining. As you can see a lot happens across the ten episodes, and the time flew by when watching. As a whole this series is a sweet, wholesome, easy show about love, friendship and family. The characters are likeable and their charm will hook you as a viewer - and no wonder as the show has already been confirmed for a season 6. I can’t wait to see what the series has in store for our beloved Jack and Mel before the series ends.
STAR RATING
