Gattaca is a 1997 science fiction film directed by Andrew Niccol in his feature film debut. It’s a cerebral, stylish, and thematically rich film that explores questions of identity, determinism, and the limits of human potential in a genetically engineered society. With a hauntingly sleek aesthetic and a powerful narrative, Gattaca has become a cult favorite and is often referenced in discussions about bioethics and genetic engineering.
Detailed Summary
The Not-So-Distant Future
Set in a dystopian near-future society obsessed with genetic perfection, Gattaca introduces us to a world where one’s DNA determines everything—from your career options to your social status. Babies are no longer conceived naturally unless their parents opt out of genetic selection, which is considered irresponsible and backward.
Vincent Freeman (played by Ethan Hawke) is a naturally conceived “in-valid,” born with a high probability of heart disease and a life expectancy of 30.2 years. His dream of becoming an astronaut is crushed by a society that deems him genetically inferior.
Becoming Jerome
Determined to reach the stars despite his genetic “shortcomings,” Vincent assumes the identity of Jerome Eugene Morrow (played by Jude Law), a genetically “superior” man who became paralyzed in an accident. With Jerome’s DNA—his blood, urine, and skin samples—Vincent gains a job at Gattaca Aerospace Corporation and begins training for a mission to Saturn’s moon Titan.
This identity swap is meticulously executed. Vincent must scrub his body daily, hide stray eyelashes, and carry Jerome’s samples everywhere to pass the daily genetic screenings. Meanwhile, Jerome, a bitter alcoholic confined to a wheelchair, provides the samples and slowly becomes Vincent’s reluctant partner in deception.
A Murder and a Scrutiny
Just as Vincent is about to be selected for the space mission, a high-ranking Gattaca official is murdered, prompting a thorough internal investigation. A stray eyelash containing Vincent’s real genetic identity is found at the crime scene, sending the investigators—led by Detective Hugo (Alan Arkin)—on a hunt for an in-valid in the facility.
The tension ratchets up as Vincent continues to evade detection, despite increased scrutiny. His relationship with Irene (Uma Thurman), a fellow Gattaca employee with her own genetic insecurities, deepens and adds emotional weight to the story.
Vincent vs. Anton
Vincent’s genetically engineered younger brother Anton, now a detective, is assigned to the case. Their dynamic is central to the film’s emotional core. Anton always saw himself as the superior brother, but he is now chasing Vincent—the in-valid who defied the odds.
Their confrontation culminates in a flashback to their childhood “swimming game” where they challenged each other to swim as far into the ocean as possible without turning back. As adults, they play the game once again. Vincent wins—again—by not saving any energy for the way back, a metaphor for his relentless pursuit of his dream.
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Movie Ending
With the murder investigation closed (another Gattaca employee confesses), Vincent is cleared to board the shuttle to Titan. Irene now knows the truth about Vincent but accepts him for who he is.
Before leaving, Vincent bids farewell to Jerome. In a heart-wrenching scene, Jerome reveals that he has prepared enough genetic material to keep Vincent’s identity safe for the duration of the mission. He then gives Vincent a heartfelt gift: his most prized possession, a medal from his swimming career. Vincent walks away, unaware that Jerome has also left him a suicide note. The film then cuts to Jerome entering an incinerator, dressed in his finest suit, choosing to end his life.
The final moments show Vincent boarding the spacecraft. As he reflects on his journey, he delivers the poignant final line:
“For someone who was never meant for this world, I must confess I’m suddenly having a hard time leaving it. Of course, they say every atom in our bodies was once part of a star. Maybe I’m not leaving… maybe I’m going home.”
The rocket ignites, and Vincent blasts off—fulfilling his dream not through genetic engineering, but through grit, passion, and determination.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, Gattaca does not have any post-credits scenes. Once the credits begin rolling after Vincent’s departure into space, the story concludes definitively.
Type of Movie
Gattaca is a science fiction drama with elements of thriller and romance. Its focus is more philosophical and psychological than action-driven, often categorized as “hard sci-fi” due to its plausible, near-future scientific premise.
Cast
- Ethan Hawke – Vincent Freeman
- Uma Thurman – Irene Cassini
- Jude Law – Jerome Eugene Morrow
- Loren Dean – Anton Freeman
- Gore Vidal – Director Josef
- Alan Arkin – Detective Hugo
- Elias Koteas – Antonio Freeman (Vincent’s father)
Film Music and Composer
The film’s haunting and minimalist score was composed by Michael Nyman, known for his emotionally evocative piano-based compositions. His work on Gattaca perfectly matches the film’s melancholic, elegant, and determined tone.
Filming Locations
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s Marin County Civic Center in California provided the sleek, futuristic setting for Gattaca’s headquarters.
- Los Angeles International Airport’s Theme Building was used for several interior shots.
- Hollywood and San Francisco served as additional backdrops.
These architectural landmarks were chosen for their futuristic and clean aesthetic, matching the sterile and genetically optimized world of Gattaca.
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Awards and Nominations
Though not a commercial hit upon release, Gattaca earned critical praise and later cult status. Notable recognitions include:
- Academy Award Nomination for Best Art Direction
- Saturn Award nominations for Best Science Fiction Film and Best Writing
- Hugo Award Nomination for Best Dramatic Presentation
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The title Gattaca is composed entirely of the letters G, A, T, and C—referring to the nucleotide bases of DNA.
- Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman began dating during filming and later married (and divorced).
- Jude Law performed many of his scenes without using a body double, despite Jerome being wheelchair-bound.
- The production used no CGI; all futuristic effects were achieved through set design and lighting.
- Andrew Niccol originally intended for the film to be darker and more ambiguous but was pressured to make the ending more hopeful.
Inspirations and References
While Gattaca is not based on a specific book, it draws inspiration from:
- Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World – themes of genetic determinism.
- George Orwell’s 1984 – societal control and surveillance.
- Real-world genetic engineering advancements in the early 1990s, especially around the Human Genome Project.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
A few deleted scenes were included in home media releases, mostly expanding character relationships and giving more insight into Vincent and Irene’s bond. An early draft of the script hinted at a more ambiguous ending for Jerome, but the final cut leaves little doubt about his fate.
Book Adaptations and Differences
Gattaca is an original screenplay by Andrew Niccol, but its thematic DNA (pun intended) aligns with many speculative fiction novels. There is no official book adaptation, though it is frequently included in academic curricula related to bioethics and genetics.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Vincent’s birth and the cold genetic analysis that follows.
- The first time he uses Jerome’s samples to pass a genetic screening.
- The final “swimming contest” between Vincent and Anton.
- Jerome’s farewell and entry into the incinerator.
- The final rocket launch sequence.
Iconic Quotes
- “I never saved anything for the swim back.”
- “There is no gene for the human spirit.”
- “For someone who was never meant for this world, I must confess I’m suddenly having a hard time leaving it.”
- “They used to say that a child conceived in love has a greater chance of happiness. They don’t say that anymore.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The ticking sound at the beginning resembles a heartbeat—tying into the theme of life and genetics.
- The number 0123456789 appears multiple times, representing the simplicity and reductionism of genetic determinism.
- Jerome’s suicide mirrors the theme of perfection’s crushing expectations—he was “perfect,” yet unfulfilled.
Trivia
- The film’s working title was The Eighth Day.
- The actor playing young Vincent (Mason Gamble) also played Dennis in Dennis the Menace (1993).
- NASA has used Gattaca in ethics training programs.
- The opening credits feature close-ups of fingernail clippings and hair—items Vincent must hide daily.
- The film’s initial reception was modest, but its reputation grew significantly in the 2000s.
Why Watch?
Watch Gattaca if you want a thought-provoking, slow-burn sci-fi experience that delves deep into identity, ambition, and the ethics of genetic selection. It’s one of the most grounded and chillingly plausible visions of our genetic future, carried by strong performances and a haunting score.
Director’s Other Movies
- S1m0ne (2002)
- Lord of War (2005)
- In Time (2011)
- Good Kill (2014)
- Anon (2018)