Code 3 (2025)

-Written by Kyle Bain. 

As Randy (Rainn Wilson) navigates his final 24-hour shift as a paramedic, he must train his replacement–a charismatic and passionate young woman named Jessica (Aimee Carrero). Code 3 depicts the most humorous, but also the most harrowing moments for paramedics–expressing that their job can often be one of the most trying. 

The film’s opening scene depicts Wilson attempting to resuscitate an over-dosing woman–and while the similarities are subtle, I couldn’t help but think back to the illustrious CPR scene in The Office. For fans of The Office this is a subtle, but wonderfully welcome nod to one its most iconic moments of comedy. It’s a brilliant start to Code 3, and a warm welcome into this slightly exaggerated and overly-comedic world. 

However, what initially promises to be a wacky comedy eventually shifts into something more heartfelt and emotional. Wilson is brilliant as a comedian, and you’ve more than likely seen him in something before in which he was able to express his comedic chops–but Code 3 asks him to do more. He shines comedically, surrounded by other incredible comedic talents, i.e. Lil Rel Howery (Mike), Rob Riggle (Dr. Serano), etc., but he’s later asked to develop emotion in a way that I’ve never before seen from him. In those emotional moments, comedy ceases to exist altogether–and heavy drama becomes the primary focus. Wilson does an impressive job of switching gears, and so do his comedic counterparts. One scene in particular is meant to crush you, and as Code 3 makes its way to the finish line it feels as if Writer-Director Christopher Leone and Co-Writer Patrick Pianezza are hoping to do just this. The sudden change is hardhitting, and it works so well to create an effective juxtaposition in tone. 

The bustling city streets present throughout the course of Code 3 play such a pivotal role in developing those aforementioned tones. Civilians either appear whimsical and comedic or heavy and dark, again, helping to set the tone of Code 3 at any given moment. Leone does a spectacular job of using the scenery to create ambiance and immerse the audience in his story. 

Furthermore, Leone frequently has Wilson break the fourth wall–further immersing the audience in this story. The emotion present in this film would have been enough to keep viewers engaged throughout, however, having Randy speak directly to the audience time and time again pulls those viewers in earlier and more frequently, allowing the most important moments of Code 3 to resonate even more. 

Code 3 is quick, navigating the busy city streets, following Randy and his partners as they respond to a seemingly endless number of calls. There’s never a lull in the narrative, and even in some of the sillier moments, Code 3 possesses enough emotion to keep viewers engaged, rooting for the characters before them, and becoming invested in this unique narrative. 

Directed by Christopher Leone. 

Written by Patrick Pianezza & Christopher Leone.

Starring Rainn Wilson, Lil Rel Howery, Aimee Carrero, Rob Riggle, Yvette Nicole Brown, etc. 

8/10 = WORTH RENTING OR BUYING