This week’s featured movie is #51: “Infection” (2004) directed by Masayuki Ochiai, chosen by Adam Symchuk.
During the decommissioning of a hospital, with a limited staff and few patients, an ambulance is called to drop off a severely ill man. Upon arrival, the staff discovers a heavily bandaged individual leaking a thick green substance. As the night progresses, those present at the hospital begin to exhibit violent and zombie-like behavior.
As Halloween approached, it was difficult to resist choosing a horror film, and one that should receive more recognition is Masayuki Ochiai’s 2004 movie “Infection.” A captivating blend of physical horror and otherworldly intrigue, Ochiai compensates for the restricted budget by creating chilling scenes of terror and revulsion, such as reaching into a container of needles. Additionally, “Infection” leaves a lot open to interpretation, allowing for the exploration of various explanations for the hospital staff’s descent into madness.
Although he is primarily recognized for his other pieces such as “Shutter,” “Parasite Eve,” and two installments in the Ju-On series (“The Beginning of the End” and “The Final Curse”), “Infection” stands out as the director’s most impressive work thus far. It is a perfect watch for the eerie month of October.