Though Gattaca is a science-fiction film which shows a dystopian society where humans are born to be the genetically best they can be, the society in Gattaca bears a lot of resemblance to our own. The idea of being born into your DNA is accepted to different extents for each person, and science has shown the effects of nature and nurture coming together to change outcomes. Even though this genetic predetermination is accepted, our society, like that in Gattaca, is widely stratified based on the circumstances a person is born into. The notion of inequality is very much stable and unchanging.
The society in Gattaca emphasizes the genetic makeup of the individual, but the film shows the power of the individual beyond his DNA. Gattaca conveyed the importance and self-determination of identity in a protagonist who rises above what his genetic makeup destines to create his own life. In this same sense, our society values the underdog who is able to rise above circumstances to success. Overall, Vincent’s perseverance left a hopeful message, inspiring us all to look past our flaws and believe in our ability to succeed.
I really like how this post points out that the society in Gattaca resembles one similar to our own, however I disagree with the point that our society also “values the underdog”. I think that while the “underdog” is seen as relatable, the voice of the weak and the minority is often refreshing for entertainment, but not actually praised in actuality.