Director: Ryan McGarry
One of the best documentaries I have ever seen, a jaw dropping look inside the birthplace of the modern Emergency Room. Deftly balanced out by problems with the healthcare system, challenges from moving from an old exempt ER to a Modern Non Exempt facility, all held together by the journey of a group of 4th year residents.
First time Director McGarry who also happens to be one of the 4th year residents is able to provide access to an ER like never before seen. Armed with RED digital camera (A first that I know of for a doc that started filming in 08) McGarry doesn’t pull any punches from the opening frame. Luring the viewer in with an airlifted patient, which also bookends the film. He thrusts you into the controlled chaos that is the USC Medical Center ER. The outdated facility brings with it a sense of intimacy and interaction that current facilities just can’t replicate. The grisly images are not used for shock value yet they are a dose of reality on how high the stakes are in this overcrowded emergency room. The Residents Idealism is put to the test when they move to a new facility that lacks the human connection of the old center while bringing more paperwork than the actual practicing of Medicine.
Some of the images are gut wrenching. A procedure known as a full clamshell is straight out of a zombie film, just gruesome. Equally gut wrenching is the consolation of grieving family and the overcrowding. People waiting 12+ hours with horrible debilitation and injuries. Which in many ways is even more disgusting than the physical injuries. It will open your eyes.
Code Black provides and honest portrayal of an ER while tackling some major issues with the health care system without trying to have an agenda or be preachy. It’s a remarkable look inside a broken system.
GRADE – 94
Update: Code Black was screened 4 times at the LA Film Festival which has never happened before. It also took top honors winning best documentary.
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