Analysis Of The Gattaca Film Film Studies Essay

Analysis Of The Gattaca Film Film Studies EssayThe impression Gattaca explores the possibilities of future technology development, and the fed geological eral agency in which these advances would affect friendship. For example, would a community composed of two distinct social shed light ones, and the in comp ar between them sincerely be an advance? Those who atomic number 18 non communic equal to(p)ally manipulated to so -called ne plus ultra in a lab, but infixedly conceived, atomic number 18 given the clear in-valid god children or de-gene-erates , and are treated as delinquent s byhment class. instinctive conception in the not too distant future is jilted in the society of Gattaca, with transmissible habit actualisen as what has become the graphic way. Due to the discrimination of in-valids, what would present grey age multiculturalism and racial diversity be in a while much(prenominal)(prenominal) as that of Gattaca? Would the importance of identity operator or per word of honoral identity be discarded? As Vincent tells the attestator Today we have discrimination d admit to a science. Gattacas plot and guinea pig portrayal asks the sweet touchwood this, screening us that unique hereditary organisation wouldnt matter- in item, personal qualities would be scrutinised, shifted aside and unwanted. It is clear that director Andrew Niccol aims to inform the watchman of this through such examples as Irenes heart defect which doesnt allow her to prosecute her dream, even though she is a valid. An new(prenominal)wise example is Vincents single way to be accepted into society is to lie and assume a valids identity. apply science enables Vincent to do so, but in fact it is technology that jump leads to Vincents rejection from his surrounding demesne, as he was naturally conceived, and and then is aeonian suffering below the burden to in some manner be equally accepted.I believe Niccols message to the attestator is that in order to sincerely benefit from the power to win over the environment, such as advances in technology rationalise us the ability to familialally manipulate, we first base have to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of our actions to fully understand them. For instance, we must ask ourselves should equality, ambition and individuality be traded for catergorisation in an institutional system with distinction. As actor Jude Law, who plays Jerome, says Andrew creates this manicured piece in which human regainings are try to irrupt out, in which the quest to convey a give out society has destruct individuality. So if we were to live in a future such as that of Gattaca, wouldnt we lose more than we would gain?Explain the nub of the quotes in the pre-exposition sequence. Which of these quotes is surpass supported by the motion-picture show text?Consider paragons bowl overi clear who mint straighten what he hath made crooked? Ecclesiastes 711I odor this quo te is the moral to be learnt inside the films plot, as it asks the attestator why fix what isnt broken? In the society of Gattaca, wealth determines mess what parents stand afford decides how ameliorate their child impart be. This raises the issue of in-valids insularity from valids (and the unit of measurement surrounding society), and the suffocation of in-valids desires. This notify be referred to with Vincent, as his passion to excursion to space. The social hierarchy and racial differences in Gattaca therefrom intrust in-valids ultimately no reason to live. For instance, Vincent didnt have high expectations set on him by his parents as he was an in-valid, but calm managed to pursue his dreams- unaccompanied by following societys sit (appearing as a valid). This quote represents the originative thinker that imperfections should be appreciated rather than dismissed, and that extension, notwithstanding its flaws is preferable to a transmittedally engineered exi stence callable to its consequences. The security guard is sh have got that the importance of individualism in nature is too valuable and complex to be overridden by genetic science. I therefore feel that this quote more strongly supports the films plot and character portrayal.I not that think that we ordain tamper with Mother Nature. I think Mother wants us to. William GaylinThis quote, contradicting the previous, represents the opposing opinion that perchance God himself is not perfect, as He created a flawed world, and that having the ability to shift it means we should change it. The need to perfect Mother Nature is a temptation, which increases whilst technology continues to shew this ability even more obtainable. By tapeing the viewer what the future whitethorn bring, Niccol is hinting that society is be constantly challenged whether to intercede with what has been provided for us even today, and that these early signs may lead to such manipulating in Gattaca along w ith its consequences. Surely we should enlist advantage of technological advances, but will correcting Gods mistakes really final result in a more beneficial government issue? This quote is representing what is presented to the viewer directly through the films plot and character portrayal, request the advantages of humans adopting a God- standardised power to be considered. nevertheless due to the clouded line between health and enhancement that Niccol informs us of, a constant need to perfect will al slipway be present. So should we crush out Gods mistakes if we are able to? Would grasping an opportunity in reach examine logical? This quote suggests the approach Sure. wherefore not?Question 3 How have the film makers demoed the difference between the natural born(p) Vincent and the genetically selected Anton in the sequence that shows them as children? (E.g. camera taws and angles, motivelessing and symbolism)To post the difference between Vincent and his brother Ant on, certain lighting and camera angles are used. For instance, Vincent is conceived at the sea at lieset in a natural setting expressing calmness. The waves gently lap the shore, as well as indicating calmness and serenity, and this Vincent will be a product of nature rather than a lab. The close-up of rosary bead and a Christian cross indicate that that a God-child will be born to this couple, and that natural and religious beliefs have influenced Vincents conception. The fading light represents the reference of a new day, but the viewer is given the impressions that Vincents birth will bring turmoil to his parents. By the doctors and Vincents parents expressions subsequently Vincent is born, the beginning of Vincents rejection from society is out honest sh experience. This instant elimination from birth is emphasised when the viewer is told of Vincents life expectancy, a short 30.2 years, and his father reacts to this. Other negative data such as Vincents heart defect and AD HD probability is determined without delay to establish if Vincent is becoming of every acceptance. By only informing the viewer of Vincents equiprobable deficiencies, and not the benefits, this once once again adds to Vincent appearing incapable and excluded ever since the moment he was born. The hospital scene uses the same low, hazy lighting as that of Vincents conception. This is not an expected light in a surgical environment, as it is gloomy, with the only light coming from the windows. This same washed out sepia stones throw is hangn when Vincent, as a toddler, falls and his mother over-anxiously runs to him. In this scene, we are again shown Vincents incapability, appearing enervated and dependent. This lighting used also portrays the characters emotions for example, low, gloomy light indicates uncertainty and doubt when Vincent is born. The closing of the iron-bar gate at the preschool where Vincent is denied admission indicates not only Vincents rejections, but als o the rejection his parents suffer, as they are made to feel ashamed to have brought such a burden into a perfect world. The bars represent exclusion creation locked in or locked out, and Vincent and his parents are definitely being almost banned like a catching disease from which separation is necessary. The low gloomy light passim Vincents childhood is used to express that these are not bright, happy memories, but a different recollection. This same light is again used when Vincents parents visit the geneticist. In this scene, one specific come about motif is referred to. This is the helix, which rouse be seen extensively in the structure of staircases and also the toy that Vincent is vie with. Perhaps the acting with of this toy represents the question should genetics be toyed with, and if so, should it be treated like childs play? The use of the helix motif within the staircase at the geneticists perhaps represents Gattacas society rising to new heights and understanding s of such amours as technology and genetic manipulation.When we are first introduced to Anton, a noticeable change in lighting is evident. When his father is measuring his height, Anton is bathed in a capitalen, glow light almost heavenly, as he is worthy of praise and his fathers name, whereas Vincent was not. The sets illusion is richer and the positioning of the characters in the scene indicates that Vincent is left behind, and that his parents and Anton have formed their own family unit that doesnt involve Vincent. Infact, he has been pushed aside in his impurity. The viewer is shown by the measurements of the brothers that at age eight, Anton is taller, better aspect and has a broader figure than Vincent, who at age ten is smaller, sk cozy and wears glasses. Through this comparison, we are shown which brother is stronger and ultimately, which is better. When Vincent abrogates is own name from on a lower floor his brothers it is clear that Vincent is feeling the impact of this constant judgment. The fact that Vincents parent chose to have some other son adds to the competitiveness of this comparison. For example, strengths and weaknesses wouldnt have been so overt if Vincent was to have a sister. The family unit excluding Vincent that has been formed understructure again be referred to when Vincent is shown sitting apart from Anton and his parents eating breakfast. The viewer is shown Vincent feeding himself intellectually with a book, whereas Anton just eats he has no excuse to fail, therefore not needing this source.The first halting of xanthous, when Vincent and Anton are children, we see Anton refusing to be Vincents stock brother, as he fears contamination by inferior blood. Whilst the boys swim, an aerial shot is used, showing Anton being more physically capable than his brother, strongly limpid ahead. A high camera angle is then used to show a defeated, helpless Vincent suffering in his difficulty. Genetics transcendence is portrayed, and the viewer is shown Vincent in a defenceless position, again appearing the weaker. Also, when Vincent lays out his exemplification solar system, Anton snatches Pluto (an apple), low camera angles are used when Anton is shown, braggy a instinct of superiority, in contrast to the high camera angles smell down on Vincent, giving the impression that that he is the impure the son who wasnt worthy of thus fathers name.Question 4 Consider the implications of the names of the master(prenominal) characters Vincent Freeman and Jerome Morrow.Vincent Freeman, being an in-valid, is not as his name implies. The name Vincent, meaning victorious and to conquer, could be an oxymoron, as is Vincents surname. Freeman, meaning one not to be nix by law in other words, free to do as he pleases, is not how Vincent is seen as through societys discriminative eyes. Vincent pilenot turn away his dream into a reality without changing the way in which he is observed by surrounding valids (assuming t he identity of a valid). Therefore he is not victorious or contain in the beginning, but by the end of the film, he does manage to journey to Titan contempt being discovered a broken ladder. So, perhaps the name Vincent Freeman is an trait of the characters journey throughout the films plot Vincent tells us it all began when he first saved Antons whilst playing chicken. This is the moment when Vincent discovers he has the strength and determination to go by in his hostile world, and the instant he realises that his last is possible to be achieved, he doesnt once look back. In the end, it seems this name may easily be suitable for Vincent, having the ability to fulfil his desire of trip to space, conquering and breaking free of restraint set upon him (his family, for instance) and victoriously overruling genetic superiority with the power of the natural human spirit. For what its worth, Im here to tell you that it is possible, Vincent tells Irene. Vincent journey of aspire a nd determination shows the viewer this.Jerome Morrow The name Jerome, meaning holy, indicates Jerome as being the desires result a valid. The meaning of Morrow is sea warrior. This relates to Jeromes limpid past and him winning ash grey instead of gold. The meaning sea warrior, no semipermanent appropriate as he no longer has the physical ability to swim, could be a taunt towards Jerome, indicating that he is drowning in a sea of defeat and self-pity due to not meeting his genetic profile by coming second. Also, the fact that his suicide plan didnt go to plan indicates his failure to win. Perhaps Morrow may be an intentional rhyme with sorrow as Vincent tells He (Jerome) had everything only desire.Alternatively, Jeromes surname may also be related to the question do we really want tomorrow to become what we see in Gattaca? with genetics ruling over human spirit and individuality. This is perhaps a cold-shoulder warning to the viewer would this be a new hope or burden? Jerome ha s no intention of seeing tomorrow. Infact he has wanted to, and tried to, escape from tomorrow every since he was second best. Jerome realises that having helped Vincent pursue his goal, he no longer needed to exist in tomorrow, and decided to die on a high note taking his failures with him, rather than dropping back down into his sea to drown in sorrow.Later, Jerome asks Vincent to call him Eugene. This is extremely close to the word eugenics, which is the study and practice of selective breeding applied to humans. Also, the meaning of the name Eugene is well born, noble, which is exactly what Jerome is. Vincent tells Jerome Jerome Morrow. Its a nice name. To which Jerome replies Its my name. But I cant be you without it, Vincent says. So even though Jerome is giving away his first name (meaning holy) to Vincent, he still owns a sense of superiority by using the name Eugene. This allows him to still feel he has an identity, although most of it was given to Vincent.Question 5 Wha t is the deduction of being an in-valid? reckon a society in which there were two distinct groups valids and in-valids. infer you were born an in-valid you were a victim of discrimination, or genoism. How would you truly feel? We can see that the in-valids are assigned the menial jobs- the jobs they cannot escape from due to their imperfections at birth. No matter how hard Vincent tried and longed to be accepted for his difference, being an in-valid would never allow him to be. Fate was never on Vincents side right from the start, as the constant comparison between him and Anton was the underlying discrimination that was the backside of Vincents separationism from society. For instance, Vincent tells us Today we have discrimination down to a science. Also, both Vincent and Irene had heart conditions, although Irene was a valid and Vincent an in-valid. Perhaps Irenes validness is an indication that genetics perfect creations dont always plug ideal results. The definition of in-v alid, weak and sickly one who is incapacitated by a chronic distemper or disability, is strongly related to Vincents incapability to live up to the want result a flawless being who fits comfortably inside the mould created for them ever since their new natural conception. The definition of valid is producing the desired result, having judicial force, legitimate all of these things Vincent cannot aspire to as he simply forbidden to even try. For instance Anton tells him I have a right to be here, you dont. To which Vincent later replies Do you have any idea what it took to lose in here? This is an indication of Vincent achievement of entering Gattaca, but there are still further stars to reach for (journeying to space).Think about the word in-valid. Why the elan? The hyphen turns invalid (an adjective) into in-valid (a noun). But maybe the use of the hyphen is deeper than that. Perhaps this is another indication of the isolation of in-valids. The hyphen separates the two those evidently pure and impure.Question 6 Discuss the frequent references to swimming in the text in what ways have the film makers given this consequence?Swimming is a recurring motif in Gattaca and significant indications of this can be referred to several times throughout the film. The first time is when Vincent and Anton playing chicken, and when Anton wins, the impression is given that his determination to be the superior brother is already present. This is implying genetic superiority mainly on a physically level. The second game of chicken was when it all began Vincent is shown as a product of a natural world, thriving in the few aspects of natural world that still exists in an schmaltzy world. Thus this is why Vincent finds his inner strength in the ocean, something too large to be manipulated by mankinds ignorance. Also in the second game, clearer water symbolises fewer obstacles for Vincent in achieving his goal.Although we are asked to consider the survival of the fittest id ea, by Vincent saving Anton, the survival of the mentally fittest is suggested. Through the games of chicken we are shown that swimming is still a familiar physical activity in the future, despite technological advances, genetic manipulation and social hierarchy that may occur. The recurring swimming theme is also an indication of a source of equality between valids and in-valids, as swimming is something that surprisingly doesnt require the correct genetic makeup or physical ability (well, perhaps it does in Jeromes case).The viewer is told that adaption is necessary in order to survive- this is referring to the unpredictability of evolution, and again the survival of the fittest is referred to. near we discover Jerome was a champion swimmer, as he had the ideal genetic profile, but becoming paralysed meant he was no longer physically capable. When we see Jerome climbing the stairs, we could say it was almost a swimming action, with the use of his weapons system pulling him forwa rd.As swimming gets one from A to B, maybe a journey is to be acknowledged. This may be Vincent realising the power of his determination and inner strength. We first see this when he rescues Anton in the first game of chicken Vincent has the capability to win despite his in-validity.When Anton, as an adult, is shown swimming in a tank alone, the viewer is given the impressions he is racing against himself, trying the make up for his earlier losses to Vincent. Perhaps he is trying to erase the fact that an in-valid somehow was able to defy his genetic perfection- twice. In his tank, Anton is passing nowhere. Here the viewer is again being shown that once a genetically manipulated human, a valid, reaches their full potential, they neither feel the need to reach higher, move themselves to mentally be the best, or have the ability to. On the other hand, we could argue that Antons case is different, as he believes he is the stronger brother, and that if he continues to push himself he can be better still. Another example of this is when we see Vincent intellectually feeding himself at breakfast, whereas Anton was eating food.Finally, with Vincent winning again the tierce game of chicken, this delivers the films main theme, telling that human spirit along with the creative chaos of individuality will over territorial dominion genetic superiority and a perfect society no matter what.Question 7 What is the significance of the recurring ocean motif in the text in what ways have the film makers given this significance?The ocean motif in Gattaca represents the one thing that remains natural, as its vastness, power and unpredictability make it impossible to be influenced by the genetic and scientific manipulation of this artificial world.We are first given reference to the ocean at the time of Vincents conception, and this is the first connection between Vincent and nature that is represented. Also, as water can represent uncertainty perhaps this is a suggestion of the unpredictability of Vincents birth, as his parents left fate to deal him an unpredictable genetic profile. Next, the ocean is tortuous in Vincent and Antons first game of chicken. In this scene we are shown not only the strength of the characters, but also of the ocean. In the second game of chicken we see the oceans ability to cause danger, even leading to death. Also, Anton beneath the surface of the water perhaps indicates deeper meanings entering the next layer of understanding. For example, after Anton is rescued by Vincent, this is when Vincent realises that although he may be an in-valid in a sea of valids, he has the determination to keep afloat and succeed in his natural setting.The love scene between Vincent and Irene also involves the ocean. This could represent a new beginning of calmness and trust, as the waves in this scene are gentle and placid, unlike those of the third game of chicken in which we again are shown links between the characters emotions and the oceans chaos, manipulation of fears, brutality and ability to take lives. When we are shown Vincent scrubbing himself on the shore at Irenes, the oceans ability to strip and revitalise is symbolised. This could also represent the timeline of a typical day in Vincents life the ocean washes away the struggle of the day to prepare Vincent for another day of treading water in his vicious sea of genetic manipulation and genoism, in which he feels he is slowly drowning.Question 8 facility in the not too distant future the film has a very retro look. Why is this?The retro theme consistent throughout the film is used to subtly hint that society regrets its finding of adopting a god-like power allowing the ability to genetically manipulate, and wishes to return to the past days when the natural way was natural conception and social equality. By existing in a futuristic world combined with aspects of life trying to act as those true of the past, we can see that the society of Gattaca system ac cept their mistakes, believing they werent made to begin with. Genetic manipulation hasnt resulted in the outcome they expected, and they are now clinging to all that is left of the untouched past. Infact, society didnt really have an expectation of what genetically manipulating would bring the disadvantages apparently werent considered, because if they had been, the segregation between valids and in-valids wouldnt have been so strong. Through this, the film makers are depicting the message that if we were to tamper with genetics, assuming superiority over the environment, we would most probable regret it.The definition of retro is reminiscent of things past not old but harking back. This relates to the society of Gattaca imitating fashions of the past whilst simultaneously incorporating modern twist. We can see this through such fashions, for instance the circa 1950s dresses worn at the gentle recital, Irenes hairstyle while she is with Vincent at the nightclub and the cars of the time, especially Irenes. These imitations indicate future societys pondering longing for something (this being returning to the past) but not being able to as the line has been crossed and changes already occurred perfection now divides humanity- if we can still call it humanity, that is.The retro look maybe also be used to allow the viewer to relate to the feelings of the characters and films plot, indicating that aspects of a Gattaca future are already present in our everyday lives today, and that if society isnt careful a similar future is perhaps as not as far-off away as we expect. Hence the used not-too-distant-future phrase. We must also not forget that this film was filmed in the early 1990s, and that the fashion influences of this era may have affected the films set and props.Question 9 Vincent challenges the superior ideology of the time whereas Irene accepts it. Give evidence to support this statement.There is a clear difference in the way the characters of Vincent and Irene are portrayed. For example, Vincent tells us I was never more certain how far away from my goal (of journeying to space) than when I was standing right beside it. Through this quote, Vincents determination to break free of the stereotypical mould that has been created for him and all in-valids is shown. A subtle hint that he rebels against societys control and manipulation is that he has lived past his life expectancy of 30.2 years. We can see that Vincent constantly questions the orderliness and precision of the world of Gattaca when he asks such things as I dont need rescuing, but you did once. Here Vincent is counterbalanceing for an answer, perhaps not from just Anton, but from society as a whole as if saying how do you explain that? Use your technology and genetic manipulation to figure that out. Another example of Vincents longing to escape from the view of belonging to the contaminated world is the comment he makes after his janitor old geezer tells him not to c lean the glass too well, as Vincent might get ideas. Vincent, who has had enough of being left below with his lower class by valids on ascending escalators into Gattaca, smugly replies Youll be able to see me when Im on the other side of it. This is yet another indication of his continuous fight in this losing battle, which does pay off for Vincent in the end.Irene on the other hand accepts the genetic hand she was dealt. Director, Niccol tells us I think of Irene as soulfulness who would lie down at the allotted minute as she would feel guilty for a minute longer than her profile proscribed. Vincent, who has lived past his 30.2 years, obviously doesnt feel the same way as Irene, does he?Irene first seems attracted to Vincent due to his perfect genes. But she doesnt act on her feelings for him immediately, as her obedience to societys ideology means that spontaneous relationships would be out of the question almost impossible. Irene checks Vincents (Jeromes) genetic profile as she is interested in him, and is disappointed when she finds he is 9.3, kinda a catch. As her thoughts are driven by the manipulation societys ideology has over her, she immediately presumes the curiosity wouldnt be mutual that Vincent could do better than someone with a heart defect.We should say that Irene unwillingly accepts the ideology of society. She tells Vincent The only trip Ill take in space is around the sun on this satellite right here. This is a sign of Irenes subtle jealously that Vincent excels in what she could only dream of obtaining- true perfection. After she asks Vincent about reflection every single launch and tells him that he is the only one who watches them, she says If youre expiration to pretend that you dont care, dont look up. Her saying this indicates that the small things that seem trivial to valids, as they are in reach to them, seem unavailable (like a goal they will aim to achieve in time) to in-valids, as they have been excluded from such things. Ir ene supports and protects Vincent, even perhaps slightly undertaking a motherly employment towards him. For example, she tells him to leave work and maintains the deception with Jerome when Anton investigates. Admiring his refusal to accept his genetic fate, this allows her to challenge her own flaws, especially her weak heart. Vincent tells Irene You are the authority on what is not possible, arent you? Theyve got you looking for any flaw that after a while, thats all you see. Perhaps Vincent is referring to the flaws she sees within herself, and how she continues to allow these deficiencies to dictate her life, forcing her to abide by societys rules. He later tells her It is possible. Yes it is, and Vincents journey and achievement is proof that it is possible.Question 10 Do the right genes guarantee success? If not, then what does?The characters journey and experiences throughout the film show that genetic manipulation wont necessary result in perfection infact, the viewer is sh own that the diversity of untouched human nature will always be preferred over an institutional, influenced society. As producer, Stacey Sher saysIn this society, there is no gaiety because everything is predicted from birth, so there is always a hollowness to success. This is a world in which everyone is so obsessed with existent longer that they no longer know how to be truly alive.Instead of manipulated fate, it is the strength an individual intellectually holds that truly determines the future of an individual. For instance, we can compare Anton and Vincent. Anton, the favourable brother, turns out to work for the police force not an over-successful role, just a middle class job. In other words, Anton doesnt live up to his pre-determined future as he only becomes a detective. Not to mention, he lost two out of three games of chicken, which shows that genes are not the only thing that determines fate. Vincent on the other hand manages to achieve the impossible. Surely this shou ld be seen as successful? Vincent reaches his goal, whereas Anton never set any in the first place this doesnt show any willpower and aggression on Antons behalf. He was supposedly the son worthy of his fathers name, but he wasnt so worthy in the end.The next valid, Jerome, also shows genetic manipulation to be unfavourable. He lacks spirit and strength of character to succeed, as Niccol tells us when he says He (Jerome) was the very antithesis of Vincent. Vincent inspires Jerome, who overcomes suffering under the burden of perfection, with everything except desire. If a determined fate is such a miracle, why didnt Jerome come first in his swimming race? Also, it is obvious that trying to commit suicide isnt very successful. We are told that even in the beginning his accident, Jerome was lacking in the attributes that make life most worth living by Sher. So it seems that the pressure of being expected to meet such expectations in a way impacted Jeromes life heavily. Perhaps he felt that whenever he was not perfect, when he made a mistake, that his actions were scrutinised that the manicured world he belonged to was constantly analysing him as an experiment or the closest thing to flawlessness. In-valids wouldnt suffer under this burden of perfection. This is therefore another indication from the film makers that human nature will always triumph over eugenics. It took the gladness of helping Vincent achieve his dream for Jerome to realise what really mattered in both the valid and in-valid world. I think this is why Jeromes silver medal changes to gold in the end, as this is the moment he truly succeeds, realising that genetics dont rule over everything.Irene, a valid, had her own flaws too. She not only had a heart condition, but also the ability to feel the emotion of jealousy, and she had no self-motivation. A valid, like Jerome, she also needed the inspiration of Vincents aggression and strength of brainiac to become inspired herself.Discrimination agains t in-valids is only supported by the hypothesis that genetic manipulation perfects without a doubt. So where is the proof that pre-determined fate is truly an advantage? In contrast, there is proof that individuality can and does survive, despite all discrimination of in-validity. This proof is Vincent, his experiences of fighting in a undefiled world, and the journey he goes on to accomplish his dream.