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Contagion opened September 9. Is it worth catching? Check inside to DJ Creepiz's review.
Contagion is a unique twist on an story we've all seen before. There is an outbreak of a dangerous virus, for which there is no cure. Where Contagion stands apart most films is that the virus is as much a character in the story as any of the actual characters. Instead of focusing on a team of scientist trying to contain the virus and develop a cure, the focus of this movie is the reality of what would happen were such a virus to spread among the population.The film is divided into days, meaning that it is Day 2 of the epidemic when the film starts and quickly increases as the film progresses. Each day shown has a significant incident pertaining to any of the many story lines. This can be a bit confusing and does feel disjointed in some parts.
The story begins by establishing that Gwyneth Paltrow and Matt Damon's characters are married and she became sick while on a business trip. She is killed by the virus, as well as her son. From there the film introduces other characters who have various jobs with the government that are in control of tracking the virus, as well documenting several other cases of infection. Much of the details pertaining to how the disease operates, evolves and is transferred is explained, in detail, so that the audience is able to grasp the sheer gravity of the situation.
The film feels very natural and most of the plot points could easily happen. There is a sense of panic and despair that seems to linger throughout the film, even as it is drawing to a close. The actors were incredible and perfectly cast, especially Laurence Fishburne. There is a scene where one of his colleague and friends becomes ill and informs him that she is, over the phone. As he hangs up, the shock, despair and guilt is clearly visible on his face.
There are only two downsides to this film, although neither deter from the film a terrible amount. First, there are several characters and plot lines that are introduced in the beginning. This does get difficult to follow at some points and does not always seem immediately relevant. Secondly, the pacing slows towards the end. As the virus spreads and quarantines are put in place, there is a lot of focus on the aftermath of this. The film spends what seemed like 10 minutes showing various riots, looting, and paranoia surrounding Matt Damon's character and his daughter.
Overall, I would recommend seeing this film. It was a pleasant surprise and is wonderfully acted. Although it was advertised as such, do not expect it to be a horror film. Any scares that may be found, come not from anything truly horrifying, but our own insecurities and expectations if such a deadly outbreak were to occur. The pacing is a bit jarring at times, but this jagged feel helps create a sense of unease that fits perfectly with the film.
-DJ Creepiz
