7. Gattaca
DNA manipulation has advanced to the point of being commonplace in Gattaca
. Liberal eugenics is commonplace, and an individuals genetic makeup not only determines ones abilities, but place in society. Those born without the aid of technology, known as in-valids, are relegated to lead lesser lives. It is against this backdrop that Vincent Freeman (Ethan Hawke) finds himself. Cursed by his inferior genetics, he devises a plan to assume the identity of an athlete with a stronger profile in order to fulfil his dream of becoming an astronaut. The world Gattaca presents is one of control and institutionalized discrimination, down to the cellular level. While technology can help certain people become stronger or healthier, those who opt out of participating are treated as second-class citizens, their only crime being to be too human.