"Gattaca" is a science fiction film directed by Andrew Niccol and released in 1997. Many themes and subjects are d iscussed and explored including genetic engineering, social eugenics and the social status an individual receives based on genetic classification. Various film techniques such as setting, characterization, dialogue and symbolism are used to explore how the film convey the issues and social implications of scientific advancement.
The film uses effective characterization and setting choices to show the discrimination against the genetic minority. Vincent Freeman is the product of natural reproduction and is genetically predicted to die at the age of 30 due to a heart problem. This information was all conceived only a few minutes after his birth. The imperfections in his genes undermines his ability to pursue his dream of becoming an astronomer, anyone who is labeled in-valid is denied entry into Gattaca. Scenes like the interview when Vincent is automatically allowed in Gattaca just after a fake urine test shows that society is divided and acceptance is a formality for someone who was a valid but virtually impossible for an in-valid. This stresses the idea that genetic engineering can create further divisions and discrimination within the society.
The world of Gattaca is set in the near future and biotechnology has an immense social influence. The setting shows genetic modification as a common ethical approach to achieving perfect lives. Anton and his wife are able to choose the characteristics of their second son, they were able to modify the child's physical abilities, his appearance and even help extend his life by eliminating any inherent disorders. Anton is happy for some of it to be by chance but the doctor insisted that the child was simply the best of the parents. Both of these ideas are central to the setting of Gattaca, effectively highlighting the theme of genetic disorder and how the 'perfect' society perceives, classifies and dehumanizes the 'imperfect' minority.
Biology is the study of all living things. ... For this reason the film Gattaca directly relates to the biological theories of crime. ... Much like the way a natural born child in Gattaca is predetermined to be inferior. ... Much like the life of a natural born child in Gattaca. ... In Gattaca a person was judged on whether they were elite or not. ...
There he learns modern science and after a few years studying, he is fascinated with the "secret of life". ... Another film that raises these questions is Gattaca, which deals with a society 100 years from now with unrestricted genetic science. ... Roger Ebert from the Chicago Sun-Times reviewed this movie and said ""At a time when we read about cloned sheep and tomatoes crossed with fish, the science in "Gattaca'' is theoretically possible. ... There are various film versions available from the 1930's from The Bride of Frankenstein to Frankenstein meets the Wolfman to most r...
It is within the flashback at the beginning of the film that gives perspective of the nature of society and because born a "god-child" the injustices he must suffer. ... As he begins applying for a career in space travel it becomes blatantly obvious that no matter how hard he studies or works out or lies, his "real resume was in (his) cells." ... His determination to succeed within Gattaca is predominantly apparent as he undergoes the daily routine of thoroughly and fastidiously removing any loose body matter. ... Vincent's determined and dogged persistence is a stark contrast to some ...
Hence, with whole decoded genomes available for study, scientists can test Darwin's theory of natural selection, one theory which Darwin never actually experimented physically. ... Other than art itself, the icon has manifested itself in many films, such as the popular 1997 hit, Gattaca' depicting a dystopia where genetic determinism has been taken to an extreme and the blockbuster Jurassic Park' whereby dinosaurs were recreated using prehistoric DNA samples. Though some scientists argue that such films and depictions give DNA a bad name, others argue that it is important ...