Review of The Andromeda Strain (1971) by Kai82 — 04 Oct 2020

Probably the most scientific accurate representation of dealing with a deadly biological or viral threat of unknown origin in movie history. This is however a mixed bag as it is interesting for some people like me who work in a laboratory or others who have a scientific background but will be exceptional boring for a lot of people.

After a satellite crashes near a small town in the USA all residents die except of a baby and an old man. The dispatched military unit who should recover the satellite or better said the debris also dies shortly after their arrival.

With this a deadly virus, infection or unknown threat possible of alien origin is assumed and the scientist take over to research the menace to find a cure. It is based on the book of the same name by Michael Crichton who is forever remembered for Jurassic Park but has also written a lot of other successful books.

It is some of the closets book adaptations that exists. They change not much with exception of the ending. It is a no nonsense and non-romanticized approach to the topic. It focused on the story and scientific accuracy.

There will be no action scenes or romantic subplots. This is however the make or break point. They show a max security laboratory and even getting inn takes a lot of (screen) time as all precautions have to be followed.

Even a single mistake can cost lives and an outbreak can doom humanity. They even explain that they could not use sugar in the canteen because it is a possible nutrient. Like I said this scientific approach is a mixed bag or mixed blessing.

I find it very interesting but see that it will be a waste of time for others. However the story has it merits as the menace is complex and the story has good twists. The characters are interesting because of their believable conflicts and characteristics.

They improved the story a lot. Also the conclusion is pretty good and an approach many other movies would abandon. Overall this is a movie unlike anything else. The unique approach is however divisive and definitely not with mainstream appeal.

Watch for yourself but be warned. Bonus: If you like more of a Hollywood like approach I would recommend the movie “Outbreak” instead.