Contagion (2011)

After seeing "Contagion" you just might have second thoughts about shaking another's hand

An unsensational (it's advertised as a thriller) frightening look at a global epidemic disaster, spreading a lethal airborn virus.

Considering the director (Suppose to be Steven Soderberg's last film), a star loaded cast, and a script writer who's worked on notable films....this film was a disappointment.

It not only follows an uneven script, but at times is marginally dull and corny. Particularly, Jude Law who plays a blogger spreading more fear and wild ideas. In fact, I left the theater feeling not one of the leading cast had a memorable performance. The beginning (set-up) is the best part of the film, but eventually feels like a laboratory-documentary, such as using sub-titles to let you know the count (days) and city. Additionally, the character development was vastly understated. In other words, the star of "Contagion" is the virus.


For me, the worse part of the film was what the film makers did with Gwyneth Paltrow and early on (as the trailer tells you), but she does have a nice sounding cough I just enjoy looking at her. I imagine the point of the film is to be born with genes similar to Matt Damon, and please stay away from pork, and Hong Kong.

Hang around for the end. You will see the virsu

B (2 1/2 stars)


Jack

What you describe sorta sounds like "And the Band Played On" which was supposed to be a docudrama about the beginning of the AIDS virus in the US. It had a lot of stars but we followed the development of the virus.

That in my opinion was a good movie however... you did not expect suspense/thriller. And still you saw the struggles of the doctors trying to fight the industry to test the blood supply etc. Twas interesting.

Thanks for your point of view. Was considering this movie, now i have different expectations for it.

Same here, I figured I'd be getting out to see a movie again for the first time in 3 months, but I don't think I'll waste my money. I do have a question though for anyone who's seen the ending, does everyone die?

Supernova wrote:Same here, I figured I'd be getting out to see a movie again for the first time in 3 months, but I don't think I'll waste my money. I do have a question though for anyone who's seen the ending, does everyone die?

Spoiler:

The virus is over 135 days (when the film ends) and during that time millions die. Not sure of the exact number. Actually, if you have seen the trailer you note right up front Gwyneth Paltrow dies and the son. But evenutally a anti-virus saves the others.

The above is only my opinion. I'm sure there are others that may enjoy the film. I just notices that RottenTomatoes gave it above average rating. The audience was less liking.

wants2laugh wrote:What you describe sorta sounds like "And the Band Played On" which was supposed to be a docudrama about the beginning of the AIDS virus in the US. It had a lot of stars but we followed the development of the virus.

That in my opinion was a good movie however... you did not expect suspense/thriller. And still you saw the struggles of the doctors trying to fight the industry to test the blood supply etc. Twas interesting.

Thanks for your point of view. Was considering this movie, now i have different expectations for it.

Not trying to hijack the thread but I liked ATBPO too.