Review of Gattaca (1997) by Christopher M — 06 Oct 2013

-Smart, relative, inventive sci-fi movie regarding the future of genetics.

-11 years later, holds up remarkably well thanks to story, production design (futuristic look)-interesting how these elements go into making a film feel timeless.

-Great score (repetitive in parts, thought).

-Film looks gorgeous, right from the credits.

-First 30 minutes are brilliant, challenging filmmaking.

-Captivating, immersive story is well established in the first 30 minutes.

-Good decision to make it slow pace, serious film throughout. Shots linger.

-Tense scenes: Eugene climbing up the steps getting ready for the detective.

-Jude Law was great as Jerome/Eugene. Begs the question: Why hasn't he been this good in so long?

-Triumphant story: how the supposed weak can surpass the strong; testament to a person's will.

-Touching story about realizing your dream through joint "partnership": Great line spoken by Eugene to Jerome: "I got the better end of the deal. I just lent you my body--you lent me your dream.".

-Some of it feels unexplained though: no real details are given about the Titan mission (what exactly are they doing there?).

-The murder plot, and how the case is solved---felt too abrupt.

Morals/Questions asked:

-Our imperfections are what make us unique.

-Perfection can be debilitating.

-Do we want to know our futures?

-Making your life what you want instead of resigning yourself to fate determined at birth.

-Hence tagline "There is no gene for the human spirit.".

-Think of all the people who would not be born as they were, and as we know them through history.