Tag Archives: eugenics

Gattaca: An episode from a Gene-altered future

Release Date : October 24, 1997
Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Duration: 1 hr 42 mins
Rating: 3.75/5
Director Andrew Niccol
WriterAndrew Niccol
Produced byDanny DeVito, Michael Shamberg, Stacey Sher, Gail Lyon
StarsEthan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Jude Law
Cinematography              Sławomir Idziak
Edited by             Lisa Zeno Churgin
Music by              Michael Nyman
Production Design byJan Roelfs
Production companiesColumbia Pictures, Jersey Films

“For the genetically superior, success is easier to attain, but is by no means guaranteed. After all, there is no gene for fate.” – Vincent

What is it about

‘Gattaca’ is set in the future, where everyone is genetically modified before his or her birth, to live a perfect life. Such people are termed as ‘valids’. Vincent was born the natural way and his genetic profile indicates a high probability of several disorders and an estimated lifespan of 30.2 years. This makes him an ‘invalid’ and genotype profiling relegates him to menial jobs. He is declared unfit for several professions, including his only dream of his life—that of space travel.  He leaves his family behind including that of a brother who is a ‘valid’.  

Will Vincent do what is necessary to achieve his dream, with masquerading as someone else included? Or will it prove too big for an invalid who is forced to work as a cleaner at the spaceflight conglomerate Gattaca Aerospace Corporation? And will his path cross again with his estranged brother?  This sci-fi, thriller has the answers.

Thumbs up
Original Premise
Production Design
Lead Characters

Thumbs down

A bit tedious at times
Lacks emotional quotient in some scenes
Simplistic resolution

Final verdict

The writers employ an original premise and bring in the familiar elements like family relationships, love and intrigue. And they succeed at that. Nicely done production design and cinematography, believable acting makes the movie an engaging fare.

Management Concepts/ Lessons

“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

“It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.”
― Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist