The First Wave poster
Where to stream

The First Wave

6.720211h 34mRMovieDocumentaryHistory

When Covid-19 hit New York City in 2020, filmmaker Matthew Heineman gained unique access to one of New York’s hardest-hit hospital systems. The resulting film focuses on the doctors, nurses, and patients on the frontlines during the “first…

DirectorMatthew Heineman
ProducersAlex Gibney·Maiken Baird

Where to watch

Disney PlusDisney Plus
Availability shown for Canada · rights vary by country

Cast · Directed by Matthew Heineman

ND
Nathalie Dougé
Self
AE
Alexis Ellis
Self - Ahmed's Wife
KW
Kellie Wunsch
Self
BJ
Brussels Jabon
Self
NJ
Naph Jabon
Self - Brussels' Husband
AG
Athens Garrote
Self - Brussels' Sister
ACAndrew Cuomo
Andrew Cuomo
Self (archive footage)
MD
Michael Dowling
Self
ASAl Sharpton
Al Sharpton
Self (archive footage)
KA
Karl Arabian
Self

More from Matthew Heineman · Director

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Retrograde
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American Symphony
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Cartel Land
Cartel Land
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City of Ghosts
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2017 · 7.2
The Boy from Medellín
The Boy from Medellín
2020 · 5.8
Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare
Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare
2012 · 6.5
See all fromMatthew Heineman

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The First Wave — streaming FAQ

Which OTT platform streams The First Wave?

The First Wave is streaming on Disney Plus in Canada. It's not currently on Netflix.

Is The First Wave on Netflix?

No, The First Wave is not on Netflix in Canada as of November 2026. It's currently on Disney Plus.

Is The First Wave on Amazon Prime Video?

No, The First Wave isn't on Amazon Prime Video in Canada right now. It's on Disney Plus instead.

Where can I watch The First Wave for free?

The First Wave is available on Disney Plus in Canada, but you'll need an active subscription — there's no free option right now.