Exploration Of Fictional Futures In Science Fiction Texts: Gattaca

Science fiction texts often explore fictional futures to offer social commentary on the present and warn the audience through a wide range of conventions. Gattaca (1997) directed by Andrew Niccol is set in the “not too distant future” and explores a possible future where advancements in technology allow humans to tamper with one’s genetic makeup. Movement (2011) written by Nancy Fulda is a short story that follows the thoughts of a girl with “temporal autism” and is given an opportunity to “be normal”. Both Gattaca and Movement convey ideas of perfection and the impossible standards that emerge, and although both discuss issues regarding freedom in their respective futures, Gattaca shows a complete lack of freedom while Movement depicts a society where choice is still available.

Gattaca and Movement both discuss issues regarding perfection in a world governed by technology. The ability to modify one’s genes in Gattaca, crafts an almost impeccable society, leading many to pay the price of perfection. Eugene is an interesting character who is engineered to possess intellect and athletic prowess, however still fails to come first in his swimming race. Eugene was brought up to believe that he was destined for success and nothing would prevent him from winning, however, the impossible expectations of his DNA leads him down a road of self-destruction. His inability to live up to is own DNA configuration is evident in the scene where he attempts to climb the staircase in his house. The staircase, shaped like a strand of DNA, symbolises his expectations or himself, and as he climbs, viewers realise the pain it takes to meet his expectations. This use of symbolism expresses to the audience the cost of perfection and the crushing pain from not being able to fulfil his expectations. Movement also comments on the cost of perfection through analogies. A particular venus fly-trap in the text that catches Hanna’s eye is described as a “magnificent blossom”, however, is crushed due to its “ordinary stem”. This is an analogy to Hannah herself as she is unique and different, however, consequently suffers due to her inability to fit in. This issue is reiterated through the quote “…it’s a matter of trade-offs…” reinforcing the idea that one must “trade-off” uniqueness and skill to survive in such a society. Both Gattaca and Movement are texts that explore this notion of “the cost of perfection” however while Gattaca shows this through symbolism, Movement expresses this issue through its use of metaphors. Both texts use their corresponding fictional futures to comment on the ever-growing issue of perfection, prevalent in our current society.

Additionally, Gattaca and Movement explore the concept of freedom, however, whilst Gattaca presents a world where choice is lost, Movement portrays a future where freedom and choice are still prevalent. Due to the discriminatory nature adopted by Valids, and the predetermined genetic makeup of Invalids, both have very limited freedom on what they can do in this world. Gattaca quickly establishes this lack of freedom through the dialogue between Vincent and his parents. The quote “The only time you will ever see the inside of a space shuttle is if you were cleaning it.”, implies that due to the flaws within Vincent, the only job he can apply for is a cleaner. Gattaca’s lack of freedom is also prevalent within Valids, due to their predetermined genetic makeup. This is seen through the pianist in Gattaca. The pianist was genetically modified to have twelve fingers and performs pieces “that can only be played with twelve fingers”. As this pianist had been destined to become a piano player before birth, it strips the individual from freedom of choice, for who they want to be in their future. Through the characters Niccol creates and the dialogue between Vincent and his father, it is evident that freedom is limited within the world of Gattaca. In contrast to Gattaca, Movement depicts a world where freedom, especially in choice, is still common. Hannah’s parents are offered a “non-invasive surgery” to help Hannah with her Temporal Autism, however, it is recognised that without surgery Hannah can still live a good life. The doctor states that without surgery, “some develop into extraordinary individuals.” establishing the sense of choice for Hannah. The analogy between the ballet shoes and Hannah’s surgery, furthers the idea of freedom, with the quote “I do not want new ballet shoes.” This final decisive statement grounds the idea of freedom, and the ability to choose in the world of Movement.

Overall, both the text Gattaca and Movement showcase their respective fictional futures to warn the audience about the dangers of technology and provide social commentary on our society today through various literary and film techniques. Gattaca and Movement both express similar concerns with the cost of perfection and the impossible expectations that come with it. Gattaca portrays a world grounded technology, to show the possible loss of Freedom in our future. On the other hand, Movement depicts a world where freedom and choice are still available. Both texts illustrate problems regarding our technological advancements and use fictional futures to provide commentary on our current society.