Film Reviews

Contagion

• Rating:
• Director: Steven Soderbergh
• Starring: Bryan Cranston
• Details: US/106mins/12A

Billed as the scariest movie of the year, Contagion is terrifying because it cuts close to the bone. It's made abundantly clear how such an epidemic could go global, and unlike more recent zombie flicks, this is realistic and worryingly possible. Soderbergh directs with his usual blistering style, but still struggles to wrap up every narrative snugly. Regardless, you will never touch a public handrail again after sitting through this slick thriller.
Several narratives are explored, starting with Matt Damon and Gwyneth Paltrow's married couple - the latter of whom is the first carrier of the virus to US soil - as well as members of the Government organisation attempting to contain and cure the breakout. Jude Law is an obnoxious blogger who predicts the fallout; Marion Colltiard attempting to find the source in Japan; and Laurence Fishburne a good man near the top of the food chain trying to make all of the right decisions whilst guiding Kate Winslet in the field
Nobody does globe-trotting like Soderbergh. He's got this unique way of letting people know they're in a different country; his filtered, visual style works perfectly in a story such as Contagion, which is packed with significant characters. While the plot moves briskly, we're naturally drawn to Damon's character because of what he goes through. But the plot continually shifts focus, trying to give proceedings more of an "epic" feel, which is does, but at the sacrifice of character depth.
The film did not need Jude Law, and his sometimes Australian, sometimes English blogger, is utterly grating. He's supposed to be annoying, but time is wasted on him when there were far more worthy subjects.
It's an ensemble piece, so by definition everyone has a supporting role - but Damon really stands out of the pack. His reaction to his wife's death is heartbreaking and further revelations of her secret transgressions even more so. It's a superb performance, but this movie has been made before so it's easy to see why Soderbergh broadened the focus.
Directed with typical panache by one of the most interesting directors of his generation, this is star-packed entertainment and is well worth your time.

Review by Mike Sheridan