Appearance
Gattaca
Directed by Andrew Niccol, Gattaca (1997) is a visionary science fiction drama set in a "not-too-distant" future where social class is determined by genetic engineering. Ethan Hawke stars as Vincent Freeman, an "In-Valid" born without the aid of genetic selection, who dreams of traveling into space. To achieve this, he assumes the identity of Jerome Morrow (Jude Law), a genetically superior "Valid" who was paralyzed in an accident.
The film is highly praised for its "biopunk" aesthetic, its philosophical questions regarding destiny versus DNA, and its minimalist, retro-futuristic production design.
Locations
The production utilized Southern California's modernist and brutalist architecture to create a cold, sleek world that feels both futuristic and timeless.
Marin County Civic Center, San Rafael
The most iconic location in the film is the Marin County Civic Center, which served as the headquarters for the Gattaca Aerospace Corporation. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the building's long corridors, distinctive arches, and gold-colored roof provided the perfect high-tech, mid-century modern aesthetic for the elite space agency. Map Location
CLA Building, Cal Poly Pomona
The exterior and some interior stairs of the Gattaca corporation were also filmed at the CLA Building at Cal Poly Pomona. Its sharp, triangular lines and concrete surfaces complemented the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture to build a cohesive visual world of cold perfection. Map Location
Sepulveda Dam, Van Nuys
The tunnels and concrete structures where Vincent and his brother Anton engage in their swimming "tests of bravery" were filmed at the Sepulveda Dam. The massive, monolithic concrete wall of the dam provided a stark, oppressive backdrop for the brothers' rivalry. Map Location
The Forum, Inglewood
The interior of the concert hall where Vincent and Irene (Uma Thurman) attend a performance by the twelve-fingered pianist was filmed at The Forum in Inglewood. The production used the building's unique circular geometry to create an atmosphere of sterile elegance. Map Location
La Jolla, San Diego
The sleek, modern apartment shared by Vincent and Jerome was filmed at a private residence in La Jolla. The location's proximity to the ocean and its floor-to-ceiling glass walls emphasized the isolation and the "fishbowl" nature of Vincent's deception. Map Location
Director
Andrew Niccol
Cast
Ethan Hawke
Uma Thurman
Jude Law
Alan Arkin
Loren Dean
IMDB
Contact Us
For any errors contact us at filmsetseeker@protonmail.me