- Published: November 17, 2021
- Updated: November 17, 2021
- University / College: University of St Andrews
- Level: Undergraduate
- Language: English
- Downloads: 12
Review of the movie, Outbreak (1995) Outbreak is an American medical disaster film released on 10th March 1995. The film directed by Wolfgang Petersen focuses on an Ebola-like virus outbreak in Zaire, and later in Cedar Creek, California. The virus known as Motaba had been reported in Zaire twenty eight years ago, only to resurface after it had been deemed extinct. The primary settings of the film comprise government disease control centers, CDC and the USAMRIID, as well as the fictional-small town of Cedar Creek. Outbreak demonstrates the extent the civilian and military agencies can go in order to contain the spread of any contagion (Ebert). This paper will highlight the manner in which the movie is linked to biology, as well as how the virus and antibiotic is carried by the monkey.
The new strain of the Motaba virus was caused by a white-headed capuchin monkey that had been stolen from Biotest animal holding facility by one of the employees, James ‘ Jimbo’ Scott. Jimbo stole the monkey with hopes of selling it in the black market; however, after failing to sell the monkey he releases it into the jungle (Petersen). Despite releasing it, he is already infected with the virus, and so is the pet store owner whom he wanted to sell the monkey to. He also infects his girlfriend when they kiss. The virus spreads so fast after mutating into a strain capable of spreading like influenza. For instance, several people get infected in the cinema hall after an infected person sneezes into the air (Petersen). It is because of its mutation that the antidote previously prepared cannot be effective to the already infected people. In this regard, the biological nature of the whole situation came into play since the host animal had to be found in order to create an effective serum to remedy the situation.
In conclusion, Outbreak raises several questions as to what the government would do in case something of the sort happens. Consequently, concerns are raised whether CDC has plans to contain any contagion in case any outbreak occurs. The film combines medical detective work, marital and professional jealousy, military conspiracy, as well as action to create one gripping story (Ebert).
Works Cited
Ebert, Roger. “ Outbreak.” Chicago Sun-Times. 1995. Web. 11 Apr. 2013.
Petersen, Wolfgang. Outbreak. Warner Bros., 1995. Film.
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