Step into the chilling world of Contagion (2011) and discover why Chicago proved the perfect backdrop for this pandemic thriller. 

In this immersive talk, you'll explore four Chicago-area filming locations through exclusive HD video footage, and experience 3D views of additional sites via Google Maps. Along the way, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories about the movie’s Chicago-based production and learn striking ways the real-world COVID-19 pandemic mirrored the making of this haunting film.

The hour-long talk also examines Contagion as a narrative and horror movie, highlighting how director Steven Soderbergh uses the city’s landscapes, freezing temperatures, and viral imagery to amplify tension and dread. From ruthless behavior to viral infection, you’ll see how various forms of “coldness” perfectly serve the story and cinematic style.