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In the science-friction film ‘‘Gattaca’’ directed by the New Zealander Andrew Niccol, an important idea highlighted is that, ‘‘the desire to succeed’’ is the most prominent constituent of human triumph over physical limits and discrimination. Through numerous quotes and visual techniques, this idea of self-determination and perseverance is made important through the protagonist, Vincent Anton Foreman. Vincent’s character embodies the key lesson that Niccol intends the audience to leave with- ‘‘There is no gene for the human spirit.’’
The film Gattaca portrays the not too distant future, where a society has become overwhelmed by genoism, a new form of discrimination. Gattaca does not simply present a possible future where human beings are dominated by unbridled technology but it is also a story celebrating the power of dreams. Those who have been conceived naturally are labelled as faith births or ‘‘invalids’’ and looked down upon by society whereas those who are genetically engineered to perfection even before birth, become the elite class known as ‘‘valids’’, in which success is almost guaranteed.
Vincent is brought into this world, unfortunately at the wrong end of the genetic stick. Even from a very early age, Vincent grows up with the knowledge that he is different from everyone around him- an ‘‘invalid’’ and therefore is constantly discriminated against for. An important feature that brings out this idea is dialogue. Throughout Vincent’s early years we are shown this discrimination he encounters, to and from his own family as well as society. Gates and opportunities are continuously slammed shut in Vincent’s face time-after-time. In the beginning of the movie, there is a scene where Vincent’s mother drops him off at a day care centre, and the gate shutting in their face is accentuated by a close up shot. Further into the movie, the viewers are made to feel this discrimination and pity, as Vincent walks out from each job interview with his head down and...
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