Virus (1980 film)

Virus, also known as Fukkatsu no Hi (復活の日, literally Day of Resurrection) in Japan, is a 1980 post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by Kinji Fukasaku. It is one of the most expensive Japanese films ever made.

The film depicts a world ravaged by a genetically engineered virus, MM88, which is accidentally released from a laboratory in East Germany. The virus, originally designed to be a biological weapon with the potency of the common cold, becomes deadly when it escapes into the atmosphere, causing a pandemic that kills almost all of humanity. The exception is a small group of scientists and military personnel stationed at research bases in Antarctica, who are immune to the virus due to the cold temperatures.

The survivors in Antarctica must deal with the aftermath of the global catastrophe, including the breakdown of society, dwindling resources, and the psychological impact of being the last people on Earth. A Soviet nuclear early warning system, programmed to automatically launch missiles if the USSR is attacked, becomes a central threat. If activated, it could trigger a nuclear winter and extinguish the remnants of humanity. The survivors must race against time to prevent the automated launch and potentially find a cure for the virus, or face complete annihilation.

The film features a large international cast including Masao Kusakari, Glenn Ford, George Kennedy, Robert Vaughn, Chuck Connors, Olivia Hussey, and Henry Silva. Virus is notable for its scope, its depiction of global pandemic, and its exploration of themes such as survival, responsibility, and the consequences of scientific hubris. It is considered a cult classic of the post-apocalyptic genre.