The First Wave

Overview

Filmmaker Matthew Heineman captures the harrowing experience of New York City's healthcare workers and patients during the initial surge of Covid-19 in 2020. Gaining unprecedented access to one of the city’s most overwhelmed hospital systems, the documentary chronicles the intense struggles faced by doctors and nurses from March to June. Each individual's story highlights the resilience and determination that emerged as the city grappled with the profound challenges of a century-defining pandemic. Through personal narratives, the film offers a poignant glimpse into human courage amidst chaos.