This film is a quieter look into the future than most science fiction motion pictures. No big nuclear explosions or an alien confrontations threatening human existence. The development here focuses on scientific discovery, specifically the world of genetic engineering.

One superior race dominates all intelligent parts of society, while the other beings (known as the modern in-valids) are regulated to custodial and other menial tasks. Leadership, power, innovation and technology belong to those gifted with the right genes. Beauty goes beyond skin deep. The heriditarily-superior are not only geniuses, but have bodies like Greek gods and goddesses.

Speaking of a goddess--a Hindu one at that--Uma Thurman's sultry yet mysterious presence is welcomed. Ethan Hawke, absent in many big name films recently, delivers a convincing performance as a confident young man set to defy fate. Supporting veteran players like Gore Vidal (Gattaca's aeronautics director) and Alan Arkin as a Philip Marlowesque gumshoe keep give the calm script a subtle edge.

The character, however, that had the most truths is Jerome--played convincingly by Jude Law. Jerome shows the human side of this accepted, predictable word. Whenever Law appears, thoughts merge from showing pity to acknowledging great courage.

Vincent's (Hawke) past raises some questions that are nicely answered with his present actions (in the future). Niccol's beautiful filmmaking makes his story flow with soft hues and unforgetable scenery. Call it brain medicine - colorfully appealing yet not completely sweet.

Gattaca is very engaging, one of the most thought-provoking films produced this year. It may not have the ooh and aah of its box-office rival "Starship Troopers" or even Luc Besson's "The Fifth Element" - but it sure makes you go hmmmmm.