Gattaca boasts an impressive cast featuring Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke, and its unique blend of science fiction and romance sets it apart from other films in the genre. With an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 87% Audience Score, it's clear that both critics and viewers alike were captivated by this film. From its fast-paced plot to its thought-provoking ending, Gattaca is a must-see for any movie enthusiast. The ending leaves a lasting impact, forcing viewers to reflect on the characters' choices and the consequences that follow.
What Is Gattaca About?
The movie Gattaca depicts a future society where eugenics is practiced, affecting both the process of conception and an individual's quality of life. Individuals conceived naturally without any genetic engineering are called "invalids," and they are more susceptible to genetic diseases. Conversely, individuals who are genetically engineered are called "valids."
Vincent Freeman, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, is the protagonist who was conceived naturally and discovers that he has a limited lifespan due to his genetic makeup. Hawke's versatile acting skills shine through in his portrayal of Vincent's desperation to escape his situation. Although the movie's premise is far from reality, Vincent's struggles and pain are relatable to audiences.
Vincent's strained relationship with his brother Anton stems from the fact that Anton was conceived with some assistance. Determined to overcome his "in-valid" status, Vincent secures a job at Gattaca Aerospace Corporation by posing as a "valid." This decision, however, leads to countless challenges. Meanwhile, Vincent becomes romantically involved with his coworker, Irene Cassini, who believes he is Jerome Eugene Morrow. To maintain the guise, Vincent utilizes Jerome's DNA to conceal his heart condition. Gattaca delves into the complex ethical dilemma Vincent faces. Is it justifiable for him to assume someone else's identity in the face of societal unfairness, or should he accept his identity and fate? The film leaves these difficult questions unanswered.
How Does Gattaca End?
In the final scene of Gattaca, Vincent and Anton are once again playing "chicken" in a pool, just like they did as children. Despite Anton nearly drowning, Vincent chooses to save his brother's life. Vincent plans to continue his charade as Jerome when Gattaca launches, and he learns from Dr. Lamar that he is aware of Vincent's true identity but will pretend he is a valid. Dr. Lamar reveals that his own son is also in poor health and hopes that Vincent's success will give his son hope. This poignant moment showcases the emotional depth of Gattaca, a '90s film that remains relevant to this day.
In the heart-wrenching final scene of Gattaca, Vincent discovers a lock of hair given to him by Jerome as he prepares to board the rocket. Jerome, unable to face the consequences of his involvement, takes his own life. Fans speculate that Vincent may also die due to his heart condition, making it unlikely he will survive the journey. Despite being a lesser-known sci-fi film from the '90s, the thought-provoking ending raises questions about the importance of the journey versus the destination and the limitations of birth defining one's potential. This theme of a bleak conclusion is also seen in another popular Ethan Hawke film, Sinister, where his character meets a tragic end at the hands of his possessed daughter.
