Netflix’s Critical: Between Life and Death is beautifully filmed, must-See TV ★★★★★
'Critical: Between Life and Death' is must-see TV.
A six-part documentary series on London’s major trauma centres starts on Wednesday (23 July).
Critical: Between Life and Death, a new Netflix series, captures 21 days inside the London major trauma system. This pioneering system ensures that people with life-threatening injuries or those at risk of severe disability get direct, rapid access to specialist teams equipped with the latest technology. These professionals are trained to respond swiftly and effectively to critical incidents.
The series is beautifully filmed, emotive, and tells the powerful stories of individuals on both sides of the trauma care system—patients fighting to survive and the dedicated professionals striving to save them. It will have you crying your eyes out, both with joy and despair. It is fascinating, must-see television that doesn’t hide away from the graphic realities of major trauma incidents.
The documentary offers unprecedented access to major trauma teams at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Barts Health NHS Trust, and the London Ambulance Service NHS Trust. It also features the vital role of the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.
NHS London Medical Director Dr Chris Streather said:
“The London major trauma system is one of the most advanced in the world and this series gives a fascinating insight into the invaluable work of trauma teams across the capital.
“A major trauma incident happens in London every hour and our dedicated trauma teams do amazing work in these life and death situations.”
The series explores a wide range of incidents and deeply personal stories—from accidents and the urgent emergency response, to the long-term rehabilitation and healing journeys of patients.
Anne Weaver, Clinical Director of Trauma at The Royal London Hospital, said:
“Every single day, our expert trauma teams provide exceptional care for our patients, from the roadside to rehabilitation. We are extremely proud to showcase our amazing colleagues, allowing the public a unique opportunity to see them in action and to share in our patients’ stories on their road to recovery.”
Critical: Between Life and Death follows NHS staff through every phase of emergency care—featuring roadside interventions, A&E treatment, surgeries, and the delicate process of recovery. The series highlights how the tireless efforts of frontline responders have contributed to a more than 50% improvement in survival rates over the past five years.
Mr Ibraheim El-Daly, Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon at King’s College Hospital, who appears in the series, said:
“The London trauma system provides access to round-the-clock, expert, life-saving care to those who need it, bringing key clinical specialities together to give the most seriously unwell patients the very best chance of survival and recovery. I am very proud to be a part of it.”
Dr Anthony Hudson, Clinical Director for Major Trauma at St George’s Hospital, said:
“The now-established London Major Trauma System was one of the first of its kind, and it’s a huge honour to know our work will be broadcast to a global audience. This behind the scenes footage gives a fascinating insight into the work we do for patients across London and beyond in their greatest time of need.”
Mr Kevin Tsang, Consultant Neurosurgeon and Head of Specialty for Major Trauma at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, said:
“I’m incredibly proud of our role in the major trauma system. Our aim isn’t just to help save lives, that’s only the beginning. We also want to help our patients rebuild their lives, by supporting their recovery both physically and psychologically.
“The major trauma pathway is here to help patients throughout their journey, from the moment of injury onwards, with various highly trained specialists delivering different but equally important care.”
This series is not just a documentary—it's a powerful, deeply human story told with sensitivity, urgency, and care. Once you start watching, you won’t want to stop.
Words: Simon Baines