Contagion (2011) **** [Epidemic Double Feature Pt. 2]
Contagion (2011) is an incredibly realistic portrayal of the way in which a society, scientists, and the government react to the rapid spread of an infectious disease. I've seen numerous criticisms of the film point out that there are too many characters and that they are not given enough depth, but I don't think that's the point of Steven Soderbergh's movie. Even though it's chock-full of big name movie stars, this isn't a film that is concerned with providing a narrative arc or memorable characters. No, what it wants to show you is how ordinary people, and those with more inside knowledge and power, act in the midst of a deadly virus.
Contagion is a prescient and seriously frightening film. Watching it after the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us is a different viewing experience, but the film holds up really well and serves as a stark reminder of how quickly things can deteriorate. Through its cold presentation, unremarkable color scheme, simple camerawork, swift pacing, precise editing, and aided by Cliff Martinez's pulsing electronic score, it retains a level of relatable and perceptible tension throughout.
Contagion is a prescient and seriously frightening film. Watching it after the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic is behind us is a different viewing experience, but the film holds up really well and serves as a stark reminder of how quickly things can deteriorate. Through its cold presentation, unremarkable color scheme, simple camerawork, swift pacing, precise editing, and aided by Cliff Martinez's pulsing electronic score, it retains a level of relatable and perceptible tension throughout.
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