In “Contagion,” a global pandemic unfolds after Beth Emhoff returns from a business trip to Hong Kong, leading to her and her son’s deaths. The virus, a mix of pig and bat-borne viruses, spreads through respiratory droplets and fomites, causing worldwide panic. As the CDC scrambles to find a cure, conspiracy theories and societal breakdowns complicate their efforts. A breakthrough comes when Dr. Ally Hextall develops a vaccine from a cell culture, but not before the virus claims millions of lives. The story weaves through various perspectives, including everyday people, healthcare professionals, and government officials, exploring the social, moral, and ethical challenges posed by such a crisis.
Length: 1h 46m
Genre: Drama, Thriller
This Title is: Intense and Thought-Provoking
Contagion is New on Apple TV in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Matt Damon as Mitch Emhoff
- Gwyneth Paltrow as Beth Emhoff
- Kate Winslet as Dr. Erin Mears
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: PG-13
Themes of pandemic, societal breakdown, and some scenes of violence and distress.
Trivia
- The virus in the movie is a fictional combination of pig and bat-borne viruses.
- Contagion’s plot was praised for its scientific accuracy and prescient depiction of a global pandemic.
- To promote the movie, Warner Bros. Pictures Canada created a unique marketing campaign using Petri dishes to spell out the movie’s name.
Our Review
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Steven Soderbergh’s “Contagion” provides a chillingly realistic depiction of a global pandemic, showcasing the director’s knack for engaging storytelling and technical precision. The ensemble cast, including Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Winslet, deliver compelling performances that add depth and humanity to the film’s complex narrative. Critics have lauded the film for its accuracy, relevance, and ability to provoke thought about public health and our interconnected world. However, some viewers have critiqued the film for its brisk pacing and dense plot, which can occasionally feel overwhelming due to the multitude of characters and scientific detail. Despite these critiques, “Contagion” stands out for its prescient portrayal of societal response to a pandemic, making it a significant film for both its entertainment value and educational impact. Its visual storytelling, marked by Soderbergh’s signature style, complements the tense and urgent narrative. Overall, “Contagion” is a well-crafted movie that balances the line between a thriller and a cautionary tale, making it a must-watch for those interested in the dynamics of global crises.
Critic Scores
Contagion has received a great review by the critics
