10 Best Pandemic Movies in the Philippines 2022 | Flu, Contagion and More

This star-studded classic from Steven Soderbergh features themes that have become much more relatable today. The film opens with Beth Emhoff’s return to Chicago from her business trip in Hong Kong, after which she was found dead from an unknown virus. Soon enough, several cases of the virus began to manifest.

People reported that they had experienced sore throat, colds, and even dizziness and fever. The cases spread and escalated until the authorities were forced to place several cities under quarantine. Chaos ensues as people turn to rioting, looting, and panic buying, among others.

Sound familiar? Contagion is the one to watch if you are looking for something eerily similar to our current situation. This film offers interesting insights into how fear and paranoia can often be more damaging than the pandemic itself.  

In South Korea, a deadly airborne virus called H151 kills people within 36 hours of coming in contact with it. Things soon take a turn for the worse when the virus is unleashed upon a population of nearly 1 million, overwhelming hospital and emergency services. So what do the authorities do? Quarantine the entire area. 

Flu depicts just what happens to society when they panic, when the government has no concrete plan, and people are left for dead. Although the nature of the virus is a bit exaggerated, the film is a social commentary on the atrocities humans are capable of, which are much worse than that of the virus.  

Sometimes messing with animals might backfire into a bigger mess. In 28 Days Later, a group of animal advocates free a caged chimpanzee, only to find out that it is infected with a contagious, rage-inducing virus. The action unfolds with the quick outbreak of the virus, turning infected humans into zombies and leading to the collapse of economic and societal functions.  

After 28 days, coma patient Jim wakes up to find his world deserted and in chaos. He is attacked by zombies but is rescued by fellow survivors, and they go on an adrenaline-fueled rush to safety. This movie does not solely focus on the post-apocalyptic theme but also includes elements of horror, which will surely give you goosebumps!

Outbreak may be an older film, but it doesn’t make it any less relevant. In fact, due to the covid-19 pandemic, it is enjoying renewed popularity. The movie features the Motaba virus, the symptoms of which are similar to that of the Ebola virus. Originating from an African monkey that was smuggled into Cedar Creek, California, the virus quickly infects a small community.

The outbreak results in drastic measures, such as medical and military interventions by the government. Now, virologist Sam Daniels, superbly played by Dustin Hoffman, must find a cure before the military incinerates the community. 

This movie is well-loved for many reasons. It packs many tried and tested elements into one movieーmilitary conspiracy, medical detective work, and personal conflicts, all with a ticking clock in the background. Overall, this film is a good depiction of the nature of humans, both good and bad, when faced with a disaster.

Following the crash landing of an infected space shuttle, psychiatrist Carol Benell receives news of a flu that makes people detached and emotionless. The only way she can survive undetected is to make sure she does not show any emotion or fall asleep. Carol realizes her son holds the key to the cure for the epidemic, so she must get him to safety. 

Instead of turning people into zombies, the Invasion involves aliens turning people into emotionless beings so that they can create a world without suffering and violence. At first glance, it might seem like the ideal world, but then it also begs the question, are you willing to trade suffering along with the ability to experience other emotions like love? 

Not all pandemic films focus on the bleak and murky side of life, which is the case for Zombieland. It finds a way to combine comedic elements that lighten up the gravity of the situation. The story starts with the mutation of the mad zombie disease, and we are introduced to Columbus, who is traveling from Texas to Ohio to reunite with his parents. 

On his way, he meets fellow survivors Tallahassee, Wichita, and Little Rock. Together, the four of them must find a way to escape to a place without zombies. The film delivers little nuggets of wisdom that are also bound to make you laugh. It also shares what is probably the most important, in times like these, we should cherish the little things. 

With its quick pace and witty dialogue, Zombieland is a great example of how somber themes can be infused with dark comedy and still be a huge success. If you're looking for a lighthearted pandemic film, this laugh-out-loud movie is definitely a must-watch!

Sandra Bullock stars as the tough and no-nonsense Mallory who joins a group of survivors after witnessing people throwing themselves in harm’s way for no reason. They have no idea what causes this phenomenon; all they know is that they can’t look at “it” in the eye, or else they, too, will die. 

Bird Box presents a unique concept in pandemic movies because, unlike other movies where people simply get sick or become zombies, it adds an extra layer of suspense with the deprivation of eyesight. How are you supposed to defend yourself against creatures you can’t see? This film will surely keep you on your toes in anticipation of what happens next. 

With a reality almost relatable to the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, Carriers is a film that will inspire both fear and nostalgia. The movie begins with the aftermath of a viral pandemic. Brothers Brian and Danny, alongside their companions Bobby and Kate, embark on a journey to escape the virus. They arm themselves with a set of rules to make sure they survive. 

As the conditions get worse, the group must be prepared to make life-threatening decisions that will either save or doom them. However, unlike other pandemic films that focus on the action, this one offers a more psychological treatment of its characters, delving into the dilemmas and emotional toll of survival. 

Warm Bodies starts off after a terrible plague has overtaken the planet and turned most of the population into zombies. R is a lovable zombie who wants to feel alive, and he wanders aimlessly at an abandoned airport until he meets Julie, a human woman. Strangely enough, the two fall for each other despite their very different natures. 

This film is a lighthearted rom-com about how love quite literally conquers all. You will instantly fall for R’s awkward but endearing attempts to make himself more human. This film offers an entirely different take on a pandemic, giving you a smart, funny, and upbeat choice that stands out from the usual grim and serious pandemic movies. 

New York high school science teacher Elliot Moore has no idea why people are suddenly starting to commit mass suicide. There is no clear information - people are blaming a terrorist attack, while some point to an airborne neurotoxin as the culprit. Whatever the reason, he takes his wife Alma, and together they flee from the city. 

They soon find out that certain plants emit neurotoxins that cause people to commit suicide. The film follows how the characters attempt to escape the threat, which is about as effective as outrunning the wind. The Happening is considered ahead of its time for its portrayal of a pandemic, so be sure to give it a watch!