A compelling science fiction film It ranks among my preferred films in a run of movies exploring weighty ideas. This collection would also include The Matrix (which I’ve previously reviewed), The Thirteenth Floor, and Gattaca. I watched this movie quite some time ago, and it has remained with me ever since. Please don't let my description of these films as 'philosophical' deter you—they are primarily intended for enjoyment. The central philosophical question the film grapples with is essentially the debate between nature and nurture. Does a fundamental quality define who we are? To offer an example distinct from what’s presented in the movie...if Hitler, while still a child, had been raised in a religious orphanage or something similar, would he have become a decent person? Or was he inherently flawed, destined to produce negative outcomes? Conversely, how might the Pope have turned out if he'd grown up under those same conditions? The film addresses these kinds of questions in its own unique and fascinating manner. I’m hesitant to elaborate further. I recall reading a review of this movie in Halliwell's Film Guide, and was taken aback by how poorly it rated. It’s possible the reviewer wrongly perceived this as a superficial film when it offers so much more substance. Halliwell often seemed to give unfavorable reviews to films I consider exceptional, particularly Australian movies like Mad Max 2 and Bad Boy Bubby. Could this be a case of American elitism? This is an outstanding genre film that deserves your attention, alongside the other movies I’ve referenced.

Source on TMDB