DVD In the near future, civilisation is obsessed with genetic perfection of its people, all are tested at birth, and if any genetic defects are found those people, they are termed "in-valids" and are doomed to be no more than menial workers with the best jobs going to "valids".
Details
In the not-too-distant future, genetic engineering has become an accepted part of everyday life. Children are no longer conceived naturally, but are carefully designed to eliminate imperfections and maximise their potential. Those fortunate enough to possess flawless DNA become the elite members of society, whilst anyone conceived naturally is labelled an "In-valid" and condemned to a life of limited opportunity.
Vincent Freeman is one such "In-valid". Despite possessing a lifelong dream of travelling into space, his imperfect genetic profile means that even the most basic jobs remain out of reach. Refusing to accept the future society has chosen for him, Vincent assumes the identity of Jerome Eugene Morrow, a genetically perfect athlete left paralysed after an accident.
Using samples of Jerome's blood, skin and urine to fool the constant DNA tests, Vincent secures a position at Gattaca Aerospace Corporation and finally earns the opportunity to fulfil his dream of becoming an astronaut. For a while his deception appears flawless, but everything changes when a company director is murdered and a routine investigation uncovers evidence that an "In-valid" may be working within Gattaca.
As the investigation gathers pace, Vincent finds himself walking an increasingly dangerous tightrope. Every stray eyelash, fingerprint or drop of blood threatens to expose his true identity, whilst the launch he has spent his entire life working towards draws ever closer.
Picture & Sound
Picture quality is generally very good, although it falls just short of reference standard. Detail is respectable, colours are well balanced and compression artefacts are largely absent, even if the transfer lacks the razor-sharp appearance of some more recent DVD releases. Owners of widescreen televisions will also appreciate the inclusion of an anamorphic transfer, whilst those still using conventional sets can opt for the fullscreen presentation.
The Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack is undoubtedly the highlight of the disc. Although this isn't an effects-driven action film, the surround mix is used intelligently to create atmosphere rather than spectacle. The checkpoint sequence and Vincent's dash across the busy road without his contact lenses are particularly effective, with traffic sweeping convincingly across the entire soundstage. It's subtle, but extremely impressive.
Menu & Extras
The extras are a little disappointing considering the quality of the film. A handful of deleted scenes, galleries and the theatrical trailer provide something to explore once the credits have rolled, but the package never feels especially comprehensive. It's by no means the poorest DVD around, but there's certainly room for improvement.
Overall
Gattaca is an intelligent and thought-provoking piece of science fiction that relies on ideas rather than explosions. Rather than creating a futuristic world full of flying cars and impossible technology, it presents a future that feels unsettlingly believable, raising uncomfortable questions about genetic engineering, discrimination and how far society should be allowed to go in pursuit of perfection.
Ethan Hawke gives an excellent performance as Vincent, convincingly portraying a man determined to overcome impossible odds, whilst Uma Thurman provides an understated but effective love interest. Jude Law is equally impressive as Jerome, bringing far more depth to the character than first appearances might suggest.
One of the film's greatest strengths is its unique visual style. The retro-futuristic design gives everything a timeless quality, with 1960s-inspired cars, architecture and clothing creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and futuristic at the same time. There are even moments that feel as though they've stepped straight out of a Gerry Anderson production. The sight of astronauts heading for the launch pad wearing business suits rather than bulky space suits is a particularly memorable touch.
This is an excellent film with an engrossing story, strong performances and plenty to think about long after the credits have rolled. It may not deliver wall-to-wall action, but for anyone who enjoys intelligent science fiction it's well worth seeking out.
Special features
- Lost Scenes
- Poster Gallery
- Photo Gallery
- Theatrical Trailer and Documentary
