Biotechnology at the Movies

Biotechnology Australia ceased operations on 30 June 2008. The information on this website has been archived and is no longer updated.

This study on the depiction of biotechnology in movies is a follow-up report to Cloning Goes to the Movies (2006). The main criteria for the films chosen in this study is that their themes focus on a specific aspect of biotechnology or it provides a key plot element. In general the 48 films chosen look at more recent and speculative developments in biotechnology rather than the more traditional aspects of food and beverage production, plant breeding and animal husbandry. The majority of the films were found to be highly fanciful, focusing on experiments gone wrong, the creation of mutant creatures or mad scientists operating outside of regulation or public concern.

There are, however, a few films which look seriously at biotechnology and its history, where it may lead us, and some of the ethical dilemmas it may present. Gattaca (1997) is perhaps the best known, and its focus on a future society based on genetic discrimination presents a stylish look at where the future may lie.

Please note this is a large document.

Download Biotechnology at the Movies below.

Copyright | Disclaimer | Privacy | Enquiries