[Article déjà publié le 26 mars 2024]
If science fiction films have captured our imagination since childhood, there is a reason: they do not start directly from the most realistic possible bases. However, in 2011, NASA looked into this cinematic genre and established its list of the most plausible films in the history of cinema.
The list established by NASA has been authoritative since 2011
Between Star Wars where the Jedi order confronts the Sith using “the Force” and lightsabers and Back to the Future where a DeLorean allows you to travel through time in just a few gear changes, the line between science fiction and fantasy is thin.
However, the world of science looks with interest at these famous works which can prove to be as instructive as they are entertaining. The proof, during a meeting at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory organized by NASA in 2011, a list of the best, but also the worst science fiction films was established.
The crème de la crème of science fiction
In the list of worst science fiction films, we find Armageddon (1998) in third place, The Core (2003) in second, and 2012 (2009) in first place. Regarding the best films, Metropolis (1927) is third, Contact (1997) is second, and Welcome to Gattaca (1997) is at the top.
With a remarkable storyline, impressive special effects for the time, notable realism and solid scientific research, 1997 proved to be an exceptional year for science fiction films. Welcome to Gattaca, in particular, marked an entire generation of dystopia fans.
A credible scenario that is entirely possible according to NASA
Identified as “the most credible science fiction film ever produced,”Welcome to Gattaca“, notably starring Ethan Hawke, depicts a futuristic society where the mastery of genetics could make it possible to control one's own development and predetermine the destiny of individuals before their birth. According to NASA, this idea is “quite possible.”
The work of medical genetics currently is to study the presence of diseases in a family. According to an article from the Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), knowledge of human DNA could indeed establish individual genetic predispositions but “it raises many ethical questions”.
The name of the film, “Gattaca” is not chosen at random: it refers to the four nucleotides, basic elements of our DNA: Guanine, Cytosine, Adenine, Thymine. A nice nod to the synopsis.
The abortive return of Gattaca
Without spoiling anything, the end of the film does not call for a second opus, despite the fans' displeasure. However, there has long been talk of the feature film being brought up to date thanks to a future series soberly titled “Gattaca”.
Original producers Glenn Gellar and Danny DeVito were set to join new executive producers, Howard Gordon and Alex Gansa. Finally, according to the Hollywood Reporter (via ComingSoon), the show will have no future on Showtime, according to an article from Allociné.
Anyway, maybe NASA should make a new list and see if, in the face of newer sci-fi films, Welcome to Gattaca is still able to maintain its first place.
Sources : Allociné, UGC, CEA
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
