With Never Let Me Go making its way to Irish cinemas, we take a look at those films that examine the more ethical sides to life…
Multiplicity
Ethical Question: Cloning
We see the lighter side of ethics in this clone based comedy. Michael Keaton stars as a stressed out father, provided and husband? What’s the solution – clone yourself of course, but what about when that clone gets tired of working, clone another, and another! Is it ethical, we’re not sure, was it hilarious, yes it was!
Dirty Pretty Things
Ethical Question: Organ Trafficking
Fresh faced french starlet Audrey Tautou proves her versatility in this organ trafficking flick that followed her more whimsical Amelie. The movie, set in London, features an illegal operation run out of hotel where illegal immigrants sell kidneys in exchange for passports with new identities and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
Gattaca
Ethical Question: Eugenics
Yet another flick that demonstrates the “slippery slope” of genetic engineering. Set in the near dystopia, we find a film where children are selected though preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to ensure that they ahve the best hereditary traits possible. Any children not birthed with this option are destined to be janitors. A film that would have even Mendel spinning in his grave.
Baby Mama
Ethical Question: Artificial Reproduction Technology
30 Rock’s Tina Fey and Parks and Recreation’s Amy Poehler tackle artificial reporeduction SNL style. Fey plays the single ( f course) woman desperate for a baby, Poehler is the white trash looking to earn a quick dollar from her uterus. Hilarity with some serious undertones ensues…
The Cider House Rules
Ethical Question: Abortion
A doctor who performs illegal abortions to avoid the consequences of the botched, back-alley abortions he has seen. He tries to convince his doubtful protege that he is making the moral choice. Layered morality at its best.