Global Effect

Rating:
Summary: SAY GOODBYE TO CAPETOWN
Review: GLOBAL EFFECT is one of those let's steal the virus and anecdote to hold the world hostage thrillers. As such, it's not bad, it's just rehashed from several other recent movies with similar themes. In this one, Madchen Amick (Twin Peaks) is the lovely doctor who is working on a cure for a horrifying new virus out of (where else?) South Africa. Enter Nile Spencer (Joel West), a new age terrorist who plans to use the virus to wipe out "undesireables" and bring the world to perfect harmony. Right! Next we have Daniel Bernhardt (Future War, G-2 Mortal Conquest) as the quiet but deadly hero who is sent to rescue the kidnapped Amchek and save the world. Spencer manages to get the virus out by injecting his girlfriend and sending her out amongst the crowds. Soon the virus spreads like wildfire and some government official (played earnestly by Carolyn Hennessey) has to make the decision: wait for the rescue of Amchek or follow her comrade's advice: nuke the continent of Africa.
The clock keeps ticking away and of course, the virus manages to get to the United States via a government diplomat.
The pacing is pretty good and the cast performs admirably. Arnold Vosloo (The Mummy) is even around with a stone face and the vitality of an avocado, but he's not detriment--his character is not that important. West makes a particularly smarmy egotist. Fun for its conviction and courage to take a few risks, like wiping out Capetown! Bombs away!