Code Black (film)

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Code Black is a 2013 documentary directed by Ryan McGarry. It runs 80 minutes and is in English. The film follows young doctors in the emergency department at Los Angeles General Medical Center as they work in a crowded, high-pressure system.

The doctors spend time in the famous C-booth, a small trauma room where they treat severe injuries and learn on the job. After the 1994 Northridge earthquake, the hospital expanded, but the ER became packed with patients who waited long hours for care. A four-level triage system helps doctors decide who needs attention first, with Code Black meaning the ER is at full capacity.

To reduce waiting times, the residents try new ideas, such as treating the sickest patients first and delaying paperwork. The documentary highlights their dedication as they enter their final year of residency amid new regulations and a busier, more crowded center.

Code Black later inspired the CBS medical drama Code Black (2015–2018).