Gattaca (1997) & Never Let Me Go (2010): Genetic Class Divides | EP18

In this episode of Journey Through Sci-Fi, we explore two dystopian films that examine the ethical and philosophical consequences of biotechnology.

Joining us for the discussion is Dr Allen Stroud, as we dive into two very different stories about the future of human genetics.

Because here on Journey Through Sci-Fi, we explore the history of science-fiction cinema one subgenre at a time.

LISTEN BELOW:

What We Discuss In This Episode

In this episode we talk about:

• Genetic engineering and “designer babies” in science fiction

• Cloning and the ethics of using human life as a resource

• The relationship between biology, identity and destiny

• How dystopian stories explore scientific progress

• What these films say about the future of humanity

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Gattaca (1997) – A Society Defined by DNA

Directed by Andrew Niccol, Gattaca presents a near-future society where genetic engineering determines a person’s social status.

In this world, most children are conceived through genetic selection, allowing parents to choose desirable traits and eliminate potential diseases. Those born naturally, known as “in-valids,” face discrimination and limited opportunities.

The story follows Vincent Freeman, a man born without genetic enhancement who dreams of travelling to space. Because his natural DNA marks him as inferior, Vincent secretly assumes the identity of a genetically engineered elite in order to pursue his ambitions.

Through Vincent’s struggle, the film explores a powerful question:

If society judges people by their genetic potential, what happens to the idea of human determination?

Never Let Me Go (2010) – Lives Created for a Purpose

While Gattaca focuses on genetic discrimination, Never Let Me Go imagines a far darker use of biotechnology.

Based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, the film takes place in an alternate version of Britain where human clones are raised in secluded schools before eventually becoming organ donors for the wider population.

The story follows three friends — Kathy, Tommy and Ruth — as they grow up together and gradually discover the true purpose of their existence.

Despite their predetermined fate, the characters still experience love, friendship and hope, forcing the audience to confront a devastating ethical question:

If a person is created for a specific purpose, does that make their life less valuable?

Science, Ethics and Dystopian Futures

Although these films approach biotechnology differently, they share a similar theme.

Both worlds are built on the idea that scientific progress can reshape human life itself.

In Gattaca, genetic engineering creates a society structured around biological perfection and discrimination.

In Never Let Me Go, cloning becomes a system for harvesting human bodies in order to extend other people’s lives.

These stories highlight a central concern in dystopian science fiction:

When science gains the power to control life, who decides how that power is used?

Continuing Our Journey Through Dystopia

This episode forms part of our Journey Through Dystopia series.

Across the series we explore how science-fiction cinema imagines societies shaped by authoritarian control, technological progress and social inequality.

From classic dystopian films to modern speculative dramas, these stories reveal how science fiction reflects humanity’s fears about the future.

Start Your Journey Through Sci-Fi

Journey Through Sci-Fi is a podcast exploring the strange, visionary and world-changing history of science-fiction cinema.

Each series focuses on a different sci-fi theme — from space exploration and artificial intelligence to time travel, virtual reality, cyberpunk and dystopian futures.

Join us as we explore the films and ideas that shaped science fiction.