It's firmly rooted in Hawke's masterful humanity, making this less a sci-fi epic than a simple (and simply wonderful) lesson in humanity and the direction in which one hopes it's not heading.
Gattaca (1997)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:55
Fresh:45
Rotten:10
Average Rating:7.1/10
Consensus: Intelligent and scientifically provocative, Gattaca is an absorbing sci fi drama that poses important interesting ethical questions about the nature of science.
Runtime: 1 hr 46 mins
Genre: Science-Fiction/Fantasy
Synopsis: In the 21st century, genetic engineering makes possible the creation of biologically superior human specimens ("valids"), who then grow to positions of power and prestige. Would-be astronaut... In the 21st century, genetic engineering makes possible the creation of biologically superior human specimens ("valids"), who then grow to positions of power and prestige. Would-be astronaut Vincent (Ethan Hawke) born the old-fashioned way, can only hope for a janitorial position at the elite Gattaca Corporation--until he buys the blood, urine, and identity of a perfect but paralyzed athlete. But a murder in the company's ranks attracts the attention of a detective who threatens to sniff Vincent out. [More]
Starring: Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Alan Arkin, Jude Law
Starring: Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Alan Arkin, Jude Law, Loren Dean, Gore Vidal, Xander Berkeley, Jayne Brook, Elias Koteas, Maya Rudolph, Una Damon, Elizabeth Dennehy, Blair Underwood, Mason Gamble, Vincent Nielson, Chad Christ, William Lee Scott, Clarence Graham, Ernest Borgnine, Tony Shalhoub, Carlton Benbry, Grace Sullivan, Ken Marino, Cynthia Martells, Gabrielle Reece, Ryan Dorin, Dean Norris, Russell Milton, George Marshall Ruge, Steve Bessen, Lindsey Lee Ginter
Director: Andrew M. Niccol
Director: Andrew M. Niccol
Screenwriter: Andrew M. Niccol
Composer: Michael Nyman
Producer: Danny DeVito, Michael Shamberg, Stacey Sher
Reviews for Gattaca
I think it was an inspired attempt at timeless filmmaking (by a novice director, no less), but for me, it didn’t quite make it.
The hero's struggle in Gattaca would have been more compelling were he an average fellow going up against geniuses, and not a healthy fellow going up against somewhat healthier specimens.
At a time when we read about cloned sheep and tomatoes crossed with fish, the science in Gattaca is theoretically possible.
The performances are rock solid, the production values impeccable, and the script well-stocked with supporting characters who have a chance to learn about themselves through Vincent's determination. It just doesn't move.
When they sculpted the DNA for the perfect race in Gattaca, somebody left out the gene for self-knowledge.
The acting from everyone is great, with Thurman giving a wonderfully cold performance, and Hawke creating a character who has been beaten down by the system but has found a new sense of optimism by a bitter man who was willing to give it out anyway.
Overall Niccol has done a fine, restrained job in a genre for which many of us have lowered our expectations.
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