Contagion is a 2011 American thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh. The film depicts the global outbreak of a new infectious disease, later identified as a fictional MEV-1 virus, that spreads rapidly through respiratory droplets, ultimately killing millions of people across the globe.
The story follows various individuals — including a CDC epidemiologist (Kate Winslet), a WHO official (Marion Cotillard), a blogger/conspiracy theorist (Jude Law), a CDC official (Laurence Fishburne), and a grieving husband (Matt Damon) — as they navigate the outbreak, attempt to find a cure, and deal with all the political and societal repercussions that come with a pandemic of this scale.
As the virus continues to spread, panic rises and governments struggle to maintain order, leading to societal breakdowns, looting, and general chaos. Meanwhile, scientists work tirelessly to develop a vaccine before it’s too late.
The film is known for its realistic portrayal of a global pandemic, with its depictions of overwhelmed hospitals, quarantine zones, and people frantically stocking up on supplies. It also shines a light on the various ways society and individuals react in times of crisis, from cooperation and heroism to selfishness and betrayal.
Contagion was praised for its acting, direction, and accurate depiction of the science behind infectious disease outbreaks. It has become particularly relevant in recent times due to the COVID-19 pandemic.