Review of Contagion (2011) by Janette H — 24 Sep 2013

Finally, I'm watching a decent film after suffering through a long stretch of B-movies in the past few days.

This is not the best disaster, epidemic themed movie ever but it sure does set out a good setting, featuring interesting characters and a smart script. All the cast played their roles well but there is one, whom I think stands out among all of them. That character is Dr. Ally Hextall, who was played by Jennifer Ehle. She's brilliant in this film, so is she in Zero Dark Thirty as Jessica.

The greatest fear appears to be fear itself, no? The fear to lose all your precious fortune, your dearly loved ones or your current status in the society? How about the fear about the unknown, as in the afterlife, if there is any? This film carefully used fear as its building elements to drive the plot. At times, I felt like I was watching a horror movie instead of a thriller. Also, it touched on life and death. Although virtue was shown throughout the entire film, it ultimately tells us that in the end, we're all but human as we will always be selfish.

Somehow, I kind of like the excessive use of bloom lighting throughout the whole time. It definitely sets the right tone for its scenes. The film is quite light on the musical score. However, the amount is to a T.

As a whole, Contagion is a good thriller that I would recommend to everyone. Let's just say, a rightful four stars for an excellence!