Future Scenarios
Proposing a possible future, Gattaca (1997), by Andrew Niccol, foreshadows a society that desires and strives for a utopia. Contradictingly, set in a dystopian society the concept of genetic modification, 'Genoism', is proposed as a normality where the social construct consists of a lack of individuality and identity. In the film, those that were considered to 'standard' were called valids, opposed to those with flaws, in-valids. With the knowledge and concerns of the rapidly rising advancements in technology, in conjunction with the changing nature of society in terms of moral code, beliefs and, values, a future where 'perfection' is the dominant factor is possible. In the opening scenes, "not too distant future" becomes a motif that establishes the dystopian society and notions of dehumanisation. The blurred background of the finger being tested is one of the frequent testings that are required. The testings in the film (as shown in Figure 1) withdraw distinctive human parts like blood, loose skin, hairs, specimens, heart beat tests and more.
Figure 1. "The not too distant future"
As shown in Figure 2, upon entry of Gattaca and besides the noted concept of testing, workers are observed to be predominantly male and dressed well in suits. Immediately, there is no sense of individuality as a collective, the people look similar. Niccol carefully considered terminology, mise en scene, spaces and dress to further capture an oppressive and authoritarian atmosphere that prizes perfection. In terms of 'social' concepts, a hierarchy is formed based on genes, meaning personality, beliefs, values and a person's moral code is irrelevant. Under Niccol's direction, the characters in the film are portrayed to be 'robotic', conforming in a society determined through science and testing. "We have discrimination … no matter how hard I study, In the end it makes no difference … my resume is in my cells" (Niccol, 1997).
Figure 2. Testing at the entrance of Gattaca (a space organisation)
Ethical questioning plays a crucial role in this film as technological, statistical and scientific experiments override judgements. A failure to comply with these rules and regulations would result in officials or governmental override. Lack of privacy became a concept during the film as the frequent testings (as shown in figure 3, the people are expected to comply with random testings) implied humanity as experiments, ultimately backing up the notion of dehumanisation. Throughout the film, the environment is presented to be a sterile setting, with the inclusion of nature in some scenes. As shown in figure 4, majority of the film includes scenes, machinery and equipment relating towards testings, science and technologically advanced doctors/officials. In addition to the notion of the lack of privacy, all credentials and information of individuals are controlled and looked over by officials. Once tested, screens (as shown in figure 5) display whether or not he or she is valid or in-valid.
Figure 3. Random testing
Figure 4. New borns are tested right out of the womb to test whether or not they are valid or in-valid.
Figure 5. Valid or In-valid
Ultimately, as a possible future, the desire for a utopia is relevant. A society that upholds peace, prosperity, an 'all time high' for the economy, mutual respect and understanding from governmental officials was the 'utopia' that was desires. The technologically advanced Gattaca has shed light on unsettling concepts like genetic modification versus nature, lack of privacy and frequent testing ignited perspectives on a society that is dehumanised and made like experiments.
References
Niccol, A. (Director). (1997). Gattaca. [Film]. Jersey Films.
