BY MONIQUE, CAITLIN, MARNIE, CALLUM & TOMMY SYMBOLISM IN GATTACA BY MONIQUE, CAITLIN, MARNIE, CALLUM & TOMMY

Definition of symbolism /ˈsimbəˌlizəm/ Noun 1. The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. 2. Symbolic meaning attributed to natural objects or facts.

Names. Vincent Freeman- Vincent means ‘to conquer’ –had many trials to face in od=rder to reach his goal of going to space Freeman- 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 film Eugene- eugenics- the science of altering the genetic code in order to attain desired traits, as is done in Gattaca Morrow- 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 invalid Cassini- 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