SYMBOLISM IN GATTACA

BY MONIQUE, CAITLIN, MARNIE, CALLUM & TOMMY

sym·bol·ism /ˈsimbəˌlizəm/Noun1. The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.2. Symbolic meaning attributed to natural objects or facts.

Definition of symbolism

Names.• Vincent Freeman- Vincent means ‘to conquer’ –had many trials to face in od=rder to

reach his goal of going to spaceFreeman- free man- Vincent, as an invalid is not free, but becomes so when he assumes the identity of a valid

• Jerome Eugene Morrow- Jerome, similar to genome which is a basic unit of DNA, fits with the genetic-related theme of this filmEugene- eugenics- the science of altering the genetic code in order to attain desired traits, as is done in GattacaMorrow- tomorrow- the future, where Gattaca is set

• Irene Cassini- Irene means peace, which she brings in a form to Vincent when she accepts him for his true self as an invalidCassini- Italian astronomers in France- Irene dreams of going into space

• Valid/Invalid- Valid is accepted, where invalid is not- genetically modified birth is accepted where being a ‘god-child’ is not

DNA References• Throughout the film we see multiple references to DNA which constantly remind us

of the significance that peoples’ DNA plays • Jerome’s staircase resembles a double helix- at which he is always at the bottom of

In the scene where he climbs to the top it symbolises his trying to reclaim his position as a genetic superior- as a valid- a position that Vincent had been holding, ironic since Vincent’s DNA was supposedly weaker.

Costume/Setting• Setting and costume were always clean- sharp edges on buildings- sterile futuristic

environment- the use of metallics, blacks whites blues and greys to create an orderly atmosphere- everything is controlled

• Costumes used to show class of citizens- blue jumpsuits for the invalids and black suits for valids/ those with high-ranking jobs- shows class and a sense of superiority

• ‘Film noir’ costuming- black trench coats and fedoras used to effectively portray certain stereotypes- immediately associate with the cops/ detectives that wear these

Symbols

Crucifix- invalid – ‘god child’Infinite symbol – valid – genetically produced

Motifs• Water and glass