The networks have announced their Fall schedules, but which series will be worth watching? Throughout the Summer, as I watch the pilots, I'll be posting my first impressions. Note that a lot can change before a show actually makes it to air, so these aren't reviews, just quick thoughts on how the shows look now. Today's pick: the NBC drama Trauma.

What's it about? A team of San Francisco paramedics fights to save lives on the scene of various disasters while also trying to cope with a tragedy that's affected each of them in different ways.

Who's in it? Cliff Curtis, Anastasia Griffith, Derek Luke, Kevin Rankin, Billy Lush

The good: With its high energy, big ensemble, and intense action, Trauma feels a good deal like the heir to ER. The pilot does a fine job of introducing us to all the major characters without too much exposition — some flashbacks help, but most of it's revealed through the action. The show's definitely going for it with the special effects, and while they don't all look amazing, I appreciate the way it uses the big crashes and explosions. I'm drawn to the relationship between Rabbit (Curtis) and Nancy (Griffith) right off the bat.

The bad: The show hit a bit of a lull for me in the final act; I liked it better when the characters were saving lives instead of having deep conversations. I wonder if the show will be able to maintain a budget for big effects scenes throughout the first season.

Will I watch? It's not necessarily my kind of show, but the pilot's pretty solid. I can see myself checking in on it now and then.

To check out some preview clips and photos, just read more.

Photos courtesy of NBC