As the world faced the unparalleled challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, cinema provided a distinctive perspective for processing and understanding this shared experience.
Here are four films that particularly reflect the complexities of this global crisis:
- Contagion (2011)
Before it eerily mirrored real events, Steven Soderbergh’s Contagion provided a foresight into the swift spread of a lethal virus. This medical thriller delves into themes of panic, isolation, and the urgent scientific battle against time, reflecting the initial phases of the pandemic.
- 12 Monkeys (1995)
While not exclusively focused on a pandemic, Terry Gilliam’s time-travel epic 12 Monkeys addresses a world ravaged by a virus. The film delves into themes of despair, hope, and the extreme measures people take to avert disaster, echoing the widespread anxiety experienced during the pandemic.
- Outbreak (1995)
As another pre-COVID pandemic thriller, Outbreak tracks a team of medical experts working to contain a deadly virus. The film’s depiction of a small town under threat and the military’s role in managing the crisis parallels the real-world response to COVID-19.
- Kaala Paani
Kaala Paani, a compelling Indian web series, explores the experiences of individuals grappling with the COVID-19 lockdown. Set against the backdrop of the pandemic, the show intricately weaves together narratives of love, loss, and resilience, revealing the harsh realities many faced during this challenging time. Through its characters, Kaala Paani highlights the struggles of isolation, the significance of human connection, and the enduring strength of the human spirit amidst adversity.
