I enjoy Outbreak for several reasons but what it mainly boils down to is that the cast is phenomenal and the writing is clever, making Outbreak an excellent thriller about an epidemic dooming on mankind.
Hoffman and Russo are believable as the estranged epidemiologist couple and their romance never gets in the way of what is really important, the main storyline.
The story about a deadly virus breaking loose in the middle of the US is gripping and frightening as it is depicted with utmost realism and most of the performances are solid with a few exceptions. The main issue of the movie is however the last act which for whatever reason includes a helicopter chase scene that ends in a massive explosion. A disappointing ending to an otherwise solid thriller
The film may not be the smartest but it is definitely worth a watch despite some of its irritating elements (Spacey's character for instance).