Common Sense Media Review
'90s science fiction has mature themes, violence.
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Gattaca
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 14 parent reviews
Parents say this movie is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of genetic engineering, discrimination, and the human spirit, making it a great choice for older children, despite some mature content and moments of tension. Many find its themes to be meaningful and relatable, leading to rich discussions about ethics and personal potential, while some reviewers note that younger viewers may find it slow or confusing.
- thought-provoking
- moral implications
- older kids
- meaningful discussions
- mature content
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 17 kid reviews
What's the Story?
GATTACA is set in the not-too-distant-future, in a world obsessed with human perfection to the point that genetic engineering is the norm, resulting in an unfortunate social dichotomy. The "haves" are Petri dish creations designed to be genetically perfect ("Valids"). The "have-nots" are naturally born, therefore, deemed imperfect ("In-valids"). Born naturally with a heart condition, Vincent Freeman (Ethan Hawke) falls into the latter category, seemingly resigned to a life as a lowly janitor. His determination to travel into space is so strong that he goes to the extreme of "renting" the identity of the recently paralyzed Valid, Jerome Morrow (Jude Law). Vincent cannot escape his In-valid self; DNA found in a single eyelash implicates him in a crime he did not commit. Paranoia mounts as Vincent's identity and dream become endangered.
Is It Any Good?
Gattaca is a familiar story -- a high-concept movie that starts well, but falls prey to lazy storytelling. Its concept is strong enough to deliver a future dystopia worthy of a future noir like Blade Runner. However, by its end, the film's hollow retro-1950s style is one that only seasoned film buffs will recognize as a nod to Jean-Luc Godard's Alphaville.
Plot hole after plot hole creates too many bumps in the road. We are never clearly told why space travel is so important to Vincent. Additionally, we are not told why his choice to masquerade as Jerome is any more heroic than bucking the system by simply being himself. After not-so-neatly tying up a love interest with a Valid named Irene (Uma Thurman), the movie's ending strives for metaphor, yet is unsatisfying. Still, it is pretty to look at.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about this movie's themes of identity, competition, and the future society's notions of perfection. Cloning, genetic research, and identity theft may also be topics of discussion.
What are some other examples of science fiction movies and TV shows that explore deeper themes relevant to issues of contemporary society?
Why do you think science fiction is often used as a way to raise questions about our world and society?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 1997
- On DVD or streaming : December 11, 2001
- Cast : Alan Arkin , Ethan Hawke , Uma Thurman
- Director : Andrew Niccol
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Sony Pictures
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : STEM
- Run time : 106 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : brief violent images, language, and some sexuality.
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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