Rent/view Andrew Niccol's film Gattaca. This film creatively tackles the issue of genetic engineering. If we were able to genetically engineer human beings to "perfection," would it be ethically correct? Vincent (Ethan Hawke) plays an "In-valid," a man born with heart problems and other genetically-eliminated diseases. But he refuses to accept his fate. Analyze how this film depicts the effect of genetic engineering on society. What position does the director (Niccol) take on this controversial issue? Include enough concrete details (i.e., specific scenes from the film) to support your answer.

Here are some other questions to consider: 

The swimming scenes between Vincent and his brother Anton are very symbolic. What do you think the director was trying to say with these scenes? Irene (Uma Thurman) is an almost "perfect" worker but has a small heart murmur. Though perfect, she is passed over for the space mission as well. What does her character add to the director's view of genetic engineering? And what did you think of the ending of the movie? What about Jerome's actions (Jude Law)? What are the ethical issues brought up with Jerome's decision? And what was the significance of the final scene as Vincent is about to board the spaceship? Did you like the ending of the film?

After watching this film, what do you think of the morality of genetic engineering? Is there anything wrong with the attempt to have perfect children? Did any episode in the film reinforce or even change your mind? Given the chance to be genetically retrofitted, would you do so? Why or why not? Justify your position using one of the ethical positions outlined in the Week 6 Lecture.

Please note: the questions above are a way to help you begin to organize your thinking about this paper. Your essay should analyze how this film depicts the effect of genetic engineering on society, including ethical considerations. You do not have to address every single question in your paper. You will need to come up with a main overarching theme for this paper by focusing on the question, “How does the film view genetic engineering and its effect on society?” Your answer to that question would be your thesis.