“We now have discrimination down to a science.”

Our next film will be Gattaca, a sci-fi thriller that poses intriguing questions about the concept of biological “superiority.” The movie is set in a near-future where one’s genetics directly determine one’s options, and some go to great lengths to penetrate these barriers and realize their dreams.

Gattaca is a futuristic fable about the hubris of mankind’s striving for perfection and it serves as an interesting philosophical piece for Disability Awareness Month, tackling ideas of ableism and the limits created by social perceptions.

The stellar cast includes Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, and Jude Law. Gattaca was the first film of writer/director Andrew Niccol, who won the London Critics Circle award for screenwriting. The film was also nominated for a Best Art Direction Oscar.

April is Disability Awareness Month at CUNY, and we have two selections (voted on by our members) that explore the personal and social challenges of living as a differently-abled person. Our first viewing will be Sound of Metal, the first narrative feature from director Darius Marder and a stunning showcase for actor Riz Ahmed (Nightcrawler, The Night Of).

The film follows a heavy metal drummer as he contends with sudden and total hearing loss. It’s a story about grief for the things that can’t be changed, and of finding unexpected strengths and connections when we need them the most.

Since its release, Sound of Metal has become a regular presence on the awards circuit, and is currently up for six Academy Awards, including Best Motion Picture and Best Actor. Riz Ahmed is in fact the first Muslim to be nominated for a Best Actor award, a nomination that’s well-earned. The sound production of this film is also noteworthy and powerfully immersive, thanks to the efforts of veteran sound designer Nicolas Becker (Gravity).