In an age where pandemics and biological threats are ever-present, understanding biosecurity has never been more crucial. This curated list of documentaries sheds light on the intricate world of biological safety, exploring everything from lab security to global health crises. These films not only educate but also captivate with their storytelling, making them a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of science, health, and security.

Outbreak (1995)
Description: Although a fictional narrative, "Outbreak" provides a dramatic depiction of a viral outbreak, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity and rapid response.
Fact: The film was one of the first to popularize the concept of a "hot zone" for handling infectious diseases.


Contagion (2011)
Description: While not strictly a documentary, "Contagion" provides a realistic portrayal of how a global health crisis unfolds, emphasizing the need for biosecurity measures.
Fact: The film's plot eerily predicted many aspects of the real-world response to the COVID-19 outbreak.


The Plague (2006)
Description: This film examines the history of the plague, from the Black Death to modern outbreaks, highlighting the evolution of biosecurity measures over centuries.
Fact: It includes rare archival footage and interviews with historians and scientists.


The Hot Zone (2019)
Description: This gripping miniseries delves into the real-life events surrounding the Ebola virus outbreak in Reston, Virginia, highlighting the importance of biosecurity protocols in preventing pandemics.
Fact: The series is based on the non-fiction book by Richard Preston, which also inspired the movie "Outbreak."


The Age of Consequences (2016)
Description: This documentary connects climate change with increased risks of biological threats, showing how biosecurity must adapt to new global challenges.
Fact: It features interviews with former military and political leaders discussing the security implications of climate change.


Under the Knife (2017)
Description: This documentary follows the journey of a surgeon who becomes a whistleblower, exposing the lack of biosecurity in medical practices, leading to severe consequences.
Fact: The film won several awards at documentary film festivals for its investigative journalism.


The Anthrax Attacks (2011)
Description: This documentary recounts the 2001 anthrax attacks in the U.S., illustrating the vulnerabilities in biosecurity and the response to biological terrorism.
Fact: The film includes interviews with key figures involved in the investigation, offering insider perspectives.


The Virus Hunters (2005)
Description: Explore the world of virologists and epidemiologists who track down deadly viruses, showcasing the critical role of biosecurity in preventing outbreaks.
Fact: The documentary was produced by National Geographic, known for its high-quality science documentaries.


The Invisible Enemy (2015)
Description: Focused on the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, this film underscores the urgent need for biosecurity in healthcare settings.
Fact: The documentary was produced in collaboration with the World Health Organization.


The Flu That Killed 50 Million (2009)
Description: This documentary recounts the 1918 Spanish flu, one of the deadliest pandemics in history, and discusses the biosecurity lessons learned.
Fact: It includes personal accounts from survivors and descendants, providing a human perspective on the tragedy.
