Station 19 excels by toning down the excesses of past Shondaland shows

Variety

"Station 19 offers a distinctly Shondaland twist on the fire station drama, without resorting to the gimmicks of Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder, or the latest attempt For the People," says Sonia Saraiya. "The new drama dials down the heightened emotions and quicksilver banter that are hallmarks of the Rhimes brand for a sturdier, subtler story. Because this is a Shondaland show, the back half of the pilot does feature an attractive couple getting naked with each other. But at least Station 19 feels more like a show about characters than a sizzle reel designed to evoke a mood, which places it a cut above the competition."

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