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

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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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

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

7. Motifs
Water and glass