CRISPR, a recently discovered molecular cleaver that revolutionized genetic editing, could end genetic diseases as we know them—but it could also usher in a new era of eugenics and designer babies. Adam Bolt’s Human Nature doesn’t shy away from either of these extremes and offers no easy answers to the ethical minefield of tinkering with our DNA. Far from a dry science seminar, the beautifully shot documentary uses a clever combination of simplistic genetic animations and compelling characters to convey the power of this discovery and why it has the potential to change what it means to be human.
Human Nature screens this Saturday and Monday, May 25 and 27, at the 45th Seattle International Film Festival. Further details here. Check out The Stranger‘s complete SIFF guide here.
