In fact, this particular scene educates viewers as well, explaining how the eyes move in the same direction and the need for a patient to feel safe that he’s been handled by legitimate staff, not impostors.

From Jessica’s first scene, she brought determination and humor to her role in the film. In one scene, Randy is informing her about the do’s and don’ts, saying, “it’s not a democracy. It’s a dictatorship,” and her response was simple yet humorous. Her presence in the film feels natural, particularly in moments where her ideas conflict with protocol. An example is when she challenged Randy’s authority, but the fact that she realized her mistake and apologized highlights the humility in her performance. Another scene where her performance stood out was when she supported Randy against Dr. Serano (Rob Riggle), who warned Randy not to bring a dying patient to the hospital. During this heated argument, Jessica did to Serano what the viewers might refer to as “put him in his place,” while an unforeseen plot is unveiled. When viewed together, the director, producers, and the cast succeed in making a film that feels authentic and raw in describing the work lives of emergency medical services workers. 

Does the Atmosphere Align With the Narrative?

The cinematography of Code 3 does well to amplify the tension and realistic feel of life as a paramedic. Mark Williams’ direction leaned heavily on a gritty visual pattern, and the technical choices made in these areas support the film’s intended atmosphere. Williams should be applauded for the close-up shots that mirror the dramatic and unpredictable environment of emergency calls. For instance, during the overdose response scene where a patient was fighting Randy, the shaky camera movement creates a sense of authenticity and places the viewers in the center of the crisis. Williams also uses wide shots to capture the city at night, highlighting how endless and restless the city feels. This technique successfully brings back the film’s main theme: that paramedics are always at the mercy of a city that fails to sleep. The lighting also plays an important role in the success of Code 3. The interior of the ambulance, often dim due to its confined structure, still allows the audience to clearly see every tense moment inside. The hospital scenes are presented in cold whites and a touch of cold blue, making the hospital feel welcoming to patients. 

As for the music in Code 3, Maximilian Eberle composed a blend of energetic beats and ambient tones, which effectively support the build-up of suspense without doing too much. In scenes where the tension is high, the score also does the same; it matches the fast-paced rhythm of the adrenaline rush of the paramedics. Meanwhile, emotional scenes rely on mellow tones that deepen the impact of what’s happening in that scene. Like the scene where the trio revived a young boy who was accidentally struck by a baseball. After this win, the fans and every other person around that field applauded the trio, while an ambient track was being played. Overall, the cinematography, combined with the lighting and music, helped convey the message Leone set out to create. The use of handheld shots, in a way, helps make the viewer grasp the exhausting, challenging, and deeply human atmosphere of the story. It does more than support the plot—the audience can feel the paramedics’ world from the inside because of the handheld shots.

In Essence

Code 3 pulls audiences into the unpredictable world of paramedics due to a captivating storyline. The brilliant performances from Wilson, Carrero, and Howery not only help make the film an excellent watch but also highlight director Leone’s sharp eye for casting and tone. Viewers who fancy tense, character-driven drama with humorous dialogue will find Code 3 both entertaining and engaging. 

Stream Code 3 on Apple TV+ today!