Gattaca (1997)

The concept of an alternate reality or future is always an interesting one.

Gattaca presents us with a world in which genetic manipulation is an everyday occurrence. Where you can be assured that you future child will be born without defects or illness. Going as far as to prevent bad vision and weakness. Argument being, that it will still be your child, just the best version of your child possible.

Of course this causes issues for those born naturally aka God's Children or alternatively "Invalids". Marked as an Invalid, your place in life is set as member of the lower class. Only Valids can win races and become presidents.

Enter Ethan Hawke, a man God born who refuses to succumb to his destined station in life. Fighting against the world around him to fulfill his life long dream of going into space. Opposite is Jude Law, a man who's fate has been altered along with his genetics.

Both Hawke and Law, along with Uma Thurman bring depth and honesty to their characters. I feel this is one of Jude Law's best roles, it is understated to perfection.

Gattaca is a brilliant film written and directed by Andrew Niccol who also wrote The Truman Show (1998). Niccol is able to imagine a world just beyond our own and make us question ourselves and just how far is too far.

Oh, and it has a little Ernest Borgnine cameo. Gotta love the Borgnine!