Gattaca And Never Let Me Go Analysis

Both texts, Gattaca and Never Let Me Go show an alternative future based on the advancement of genetics and the effect they have on society. By genetically cloning individuals for organ harvesting and the attempt to create a perfect society with "perfect humans" it is evident that what matters most is what you are, not who you are. A constant display of dehumanisation is shown through the relationship between those who have been somewhat dehumanised and those who have been brought up in an ideal way. Society in these texts views and subsequently ostracises those who are different from what is considered normal. Never Let Me Go addresses the process of accepting who you are due to the differences where-as Gattaca encourages the idea that society …show more content…
Society’s views on the inferior is crucial in shaping them as individuals with differences down to science, however their personality highlights who they are. Gattaca explores the pre-existent reputation of “invalids”, suggesting no matter what you are, society has the presumption that you are not worthy enough of a superior life. The separation casted between “valids” and “invalids”, suggests society values one’s place and purpose over an individual’s personality and qualities. Gattaca’s tagline “there’s no gene for the human spirit” contradicts the film itself, as a person's self-worth cannot be measured by their genes. However, throughout the film, the dystopian society is isolated into two groups depending on what you are. Niccol outlines that no matter who you are, whether you are genetically perfect or not, what matters most is who you are on the inside. Although Vincent is an “Invalid” he demonstrates that genetic material is not the determining factor of a person potential and abilities. As indicated through the focus on genetic superiority, "valids" are …show more content…
In Never Let Me Go, Hailsham gives the children hope that they can live out their dreams, however, in Gattaca from an early age what you are determines if you are "invalid" or not, and whether you fit into society. This declines them of living a life they dreamed. Vincent’s determination to achieve his dreams allows him to overcome the physical and metaphorical boundaries society has constructed around him. By focusing on perfection at a genetic level in the world within Gattaca, individuals potential and abilities are overlooked and a sense of individuality is removed. "I belong to a new underclass, no longer determined by social status or the colour of your skin. We now have discrimination down to a science." Being naturally conceived, Vincent does not meet the standards of society, and because there is such high expectations of the "perfect" world, the constant need to belong and be valid is emphasised. "They used to say that a child conceived in love has a greater chance of happiness. They don't say that anymore." This is evident in the lighting used throughout the film. Green light is used to symbolise nature and the natural way of being conceived, which contradicts the sterile and cleansing aspects of blue, used to depict the "perfect" society of Gattaca. Due to society being taught that a person only truly belongs in the world if they are genetically perfect, the