Both the film "Cataract" (1996), written and directed by Andrew Niccole, and the book "1984" by George Orwell exhibit numerous similarities while also featuring significant differences. "Cataract" is set in a futuristic world with advanced technology, where a society strives for a perfect utopia through genetic engineering. This mirrors the totalitarian party in "1984," which maintains absolute control over the lives of its citizens.
In today's society, we tend to take our world for granted, assuming it is safe. However, both the present and future worlds have their disappointments and are not fully realized. The mentioned text highlights the existence of disappointing societies in both worlds. This is evident through the social hierarchy in Cataract, which is determined by the government based on genetic composition.
One is genetically perfect Valid' made gen
...etically, these individuals have the ability to pursue a stable job and achieve success in life similar to Anton. However, Vincent Freeman, who is considered an 'invalid' within his society, is an imperfect product of love. Like all 'in-valids,' he is destined to become a cleaner, a position that is looked down upon in society. Vincent faces genetic discrimination and constant social disdain. The society portrayed in Cataract demonstrates that life is governed by genetics rather than an individual's physical potential and education.
The DNA of individuals determines their future and where they belong, as illustrated by Vincent in the movie Gattaca. Vincent defies societal hierarchy by rejecting his cleaner job, rebelling against his family, and assuming the identity of Jerome, using Jerome's valid identity to achieve his dream of becoming a space navigator. This is portrayed through the use of Groomer's
Urine and Blood DNA samples in the interview scene, as depicted in a long shot. Similarly, in the novel 984, people's lives are controlled by the ministry and Big Brother. The protagonist, Winston, defies the party's laws by acquiring a diary, fully aware of its illegality and the potential consequences. He understands that possessing a diary could lead to death or twenty-five years in a forced labor camp. The diary symbolizes Winston's thoughts and emotions that he keeps hidden within himself. In this society, having independent thoughts and emotions is also forbidden.
Both works express a disillusionment with society's struggle to achieve an ideal utopian state. The movie portrays various relationships, such as the brotherhood between Jerome and Vincent, Vincent's connection with Atom, and his romantic involvement with Irene. Anton is Vincent's biological brother, while Jerome becomes his accomplice in deception. A significant moment in the film is depicted through a long shot of Jerome entering the incinerator and wearing his swimming medal, highlighting his lack of significance or worthiness in society.
The use of non-dietetic melodramatic music and dark bland colors enhances the dramatic scene as the character commits suicide. The medal featuring two swimmers serves as a reminder of Vincent and Anton and their competitive swimming challenges. Anton, who is Vincent's engineering brother and rival, represents a significant figure in Vincent's life. Vincent defeating Anton in their swimming game becomes a life-changing moment for him, proving that he can overcome any obstacles and achieve success. When Anton is revealed to be the investigator, he ultimately saves Vincent, mirroring the way Vincent had previously saved him.
Jerome felt uncomfortable when Vincent used his identity
to achieve his own aspirations. However, Jerome eventually decides to adopt Vincent's dream as his own. Together, the two men collaborate to pursue their respective goals. Vincent's romantic involvement with Irene has made him realize his desire to break free from societal constraints and challenge the current state of affairs in the world. Meeting Irene brings him a sense of joy and acceptance. The scene in which they visit a field of mirrors is depicted with warm lighting and intensified colors.
Vincent feels hopeful because of the glowing effect in the scene, and both of his relationships are meaningful. "1984" also explores the concept of brotherhood, specifically in the relationship between Winston and O'Brien. O'Brien aligns with Winston's perspectives on the parties and represents camaraderie. This is evident in the quote "The old civilization claimed that they were founded on love and Justice, ours is founded upon hatred. In our world there will be no emotions expect fear, rage, triumph, and self- abasement." Additionally, O'Brien assists in the love relationship between Winston and Julia.
O'Brien intensifies Winston's distaste for the parties, but also instills in him a newfound love for Julia. Winston becomes aware of the importance of happiness and love while in Julia's presence. This is implied by the phrase, "upon seeing the words I love you, an overwhelming desire to hold onto life emerged within him, causing minor risks to suddenly seem foolish." His aversion and resentment towards big brother grow stronger, as evidenced by the quote, "Not just the love for one individual, but rather the primal instinct, the uncomplicated and undifferentiated longing: this was the strength that would dismantle the
party."
Both of Winston's relationships caused him to despise both the party and Big Brother's laws. As a result, Cataract, in both set texts, demonstrates that there is always hope in life and that one should never give up on their dreams. It suggests that there is nothing to lose by pursuing those dreams and that achieving them is always possible. In contrast, 1984 illustrates that despite the government's control over thoughts and reality itself, it is still insufficient to suppress an individual's freedoms and potential for emotions and thoughts.
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