From the early years of filmmaking to modern times, many movies about epidemic outbreaks have been released. Children of Men, The Andromeda Strain, 28 Days Later, 12 Monkeys and Outbreak are a few that come to mind. Even the most recent Rise of the Plant of the Apes contained a hint of that theme. As far as plot goes, Steven Soderbergh’s Contagion offers little new about fear and horror about to end the world, but this director’s behind-the-camera ability to be fresh -- along with help from an all-star cast -- elevates his thriller from boredom, if only just slightly. 

Beth Emhoff (Gwyneth Paltrow), a business woman, manages a family but also travels internationally. When she returns home from Hong Kong with a slight cough it’s only a matter of days until she and her young son are writhing on the kitchen floor, and shortly after, die. Left to pick up the pieces are her husband Mitch (Matt Damon) and teen-age daughter Jory (Anna Jacoby-Heron). Soderbergh uses random flashbacks and scenes from around the world to reveal that a deadly virus killed Beth (which actually gives Paltrow play throughout the film). What makes this virus so deadly? It can kill people who simply touch a hand rail or stand next to someone coughing.  

With global panic rising, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention kicks into overdrive, bringing out their best doctors and researchers including Dr. Ellis Cheever (Laurence Fishburne) and his colleague Dr. Erin Mears (Kate Winslet). These two immediately start investigating, Ellis more from the desk and Erin actually in the field. Joining those searching for answers are Dr. Leonora Orantes (Marion Cotillard) and Dr. Ian Sussman (Elliott Gould). Part of the jumping scenes that begin to happen too often include Leonora heading to the Hong Kong area to further determine the origin of the mysterious virus. While there, some surprising experiences change her life forever.

Mitch, who eventually learns he is immune to this bug, hopes Jory inherited his immunity. Just in case, he keeps her confined and away from the boyfriend, which is not an easy task. Meanwhile, he continually plagues the doctors about what actually killed his family members. It’s Mitch’s character, an ordinary man, that keeps the story grounded. However, the film’s momentum continues to build with the perplexing actions of a quirky blogger (Jude Law) whose motivations are constantly in question.

There are some undercurrent mentions here as well as references to issues like health care and family values, or looting and mayhem which occur whenever a disaster strikes -- but these things are easy to miss when all eyes are watching for who will be infected next. Overall, Contagion offers nothing new in this genre, but fans of various cast members may enjoy the film.

(Released by Warner Bros. Pictures and rated “PG-13” for disturbing content and some language.)

Review also posted at www.reviewexpress.com.