Another feel good film from Hollywood.

I broke one of my recent rules today and went to the movies.(Movies are too loud and audiences are hopelessly ill-mannered.) I couldn't help it, I have a fascination with plagues and epidemics. So, naturally I had to see "Contagion" especially since it's in THX. Before I tell you about the movie, let me say I think that going to movies is no longer just risky to your hearing; I think it's dangerous. Before the film began, there were nine—count them nine—coming attractions (all right, trailers). Each one was played at super volume,and since all were filled with gunfire and explosive I could feel the loudness in my ears (which were plugged with paper) and in my chest and head. I'm surprised more patrons don't leave theaters in ambulances. And keep in mind most people, unlike me, do not plug their ears and therefore receive the full blast, or as the promo says, "12,000 watts of digital surround sound." Admittedly the movie is not as ear-splitting loud. The film itself was so-so, not much better than 1995's "Outbreak." Actually it was pretty bad considering the number of stars it boasted, including always believable Matt Damon; Gwyneth Paltrow who checks out very quickly; Elliot Gould; Jude Law; Marion Cotillard, Laurence Fishburn; Kate Winslet; and an actress easily confused with Kate Winslet in the earl scenes, Jennifer Ehle. Why they bothered with THX I can't fathom as there was nothing in the scope and theme to demand any kind of extra effects. The only thing really interesting about this movie is that it could happen. And, if it does, it will probably be a lot like this, except not in THX.