Difference between revisions of "Gattaca"

Revision as of 02:58, 22 November 2011

Theatrical Release Poster

Gattaca is a science fiction film which takes place in a fictional future where biometrics and genetic testing dictate the development of society. The film features Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman who eventually got married after meeting while making the film; they were later divorced in 2003. The film's title is spelled using only G's, A's, T's and C's - in reference to the four of the genetic bases.

Plot Summary

Set in a future world, the movie follows a young man named Vincent Freeman, who is of inferior genetic make up. He was a naturally born baby, something rare in this world where genes are systematically manipulated to create more perfect humans. Following Vincent's birth, his parents decide to create another son with better genes. As he continues to grow up, Vincent faces discrimination for his genetic inferiority. Because of this discrimination, Vincent assumes the identity of a paralyzed, yet genetically elite man named Jerome Morrow. Vincent uses Jerome's blood, skin, and hair to deceive the Gattaca Corporation into giving him a job. As Jerome Morrow, Vincent was well on his way to traveling to space, his childhood dream. Soon before his mission to space, the mission director is murdered, delaying the mission until the death is investigated. Vincent must avoid compromising his true identity during the investigation to not miss his chance to go to space.

Ethics of Genetic Profiling

Creating a Perfect Society

One of the themes that Gattaca brings up is the idea of creating a perfect society. In the film, the achievement of genetic engineering is that parents can order a "perfect" baby. After Vincent was born, the doctors tested his blood and were able to analyze his DNA, projecting Vincent to live only 30.2 years

External Links

[1] http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119177/plotsummary