Cloning, a topic that has fascinated scientists, philosophers, and storytellers alike, revolves around the process of creating genetically identical copies of biological entities. In cinema, films about clones explore a wide array of themes, including identity, morality, the notion of self, and the consequences of playing god. These narratives often delve into science fiction, presenting speculative scenarios that question the essence of humanity and individuality. Below is a list of notable films that tackle the subject of clones, each offering a unique perspective on the implications and ethical dilemmas that accompany this controversial and intriguing topic.
“The Island”, 2005
Director: Michael Bay
This science fiction thriller directed by Michael Bay follows Lincoln Six Echo and Jordan Two Delta, residents of a seemingly utopian but contained facility in the mid-21st century. They eventually discover that they are clones, created for the purpose of providing organ transplants to their wealthy donor counterparts living in the outside world.
Starring: Ewan McGregor, Scarlett Johansson, Djimon Hounsou, Sean Bean, Steve Buscemi, Michael Clarke Duncan, Ethan Phillips, Brian Stepanek, Noa Tishby, Siobhan Flynn;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: science fiction, action, thriller;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 136 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “The Island” on the website imdb.com
“Moon”, 2009
Director: Duncan Jones
Directed by Duncan Jones, “Moon” tells the story of Sam Bell, a man nearing the end of his three-year solitary stint mining helium-3 on the far side of the Moon. The twist comes when he encounters a younger clone of himself, leading to a deep existential crisis about identity, humanity, and the ethics of cloning.
Starring: Sam Rockwell, Kevin Spacey, Dominique McElligott, Rosie Shaw, Adrienne Shaw, Kaya Scodelario, Benedict Wong, Matt Berry, Malcolm Stewart, Robin Chalk;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: science fiction, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Moon” on the website imdb.com
“Never Let Me Go”, 2010
Director: Mark Romanek
This dystopian romantic drama, based on Kazuo Ishiguro's novel of the same name, is directed by Mark Romanek. It reveals the lives of Kathy, Tommy, and Ruth, who grow up at a seemingly idyllic English boarding school, only to discover they are clones created for the sole purpose of organ donation and will soon face their inevitable early deaths.
Starring: Carey Mulligan, Andrew Garfield, Keira Knightley, Izzy Meikle-Small, Charlie Rowe, Ella Purnell, Charlotte Rampling, Sally Hawkins, Andrea Riseborough, Domhnall Gleeson;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: science fiction, thriller, drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Never Let Me Go” on the website imdb.com
“The 6th Day”, 2000
Director: Roger Spottiswoode
In this science fiction thriller directed by Roger Spottiswoode, Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as Adam Gibson, a man who comes home one day to find a clone has replaced him. He must then fight to reclaim his life and uncover a vast conspiracy involving cloning technology.
Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Rapaport, Tony Goldwyn, Michael Rooker, Sarah Wynter, Wendy Crewson, Rodney Rowland, Terry Crews, Ken Pogue, Robert Duvall;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: science fiction, action, thriller, detective;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,9;
More information about the film “The 6th Day” on the website imdb.com
“Multiplicity”, 1996
Director: Harold Ramis
Directed by Harold Ramis, this comedy stars Michael Keaton as Doug Kinney, a man who never has enough time for the things he wants to do and is offered the opportunity to have himself cloned. As Doug and his clones try to keep their existence a secret, they learn more about what it means to be individuals.
Starring: Michael Keaton, Andie MacDowell, Zack Duhame, Katie Schlossberg, Harris Yulin, Richard Masur, Eugene Levy, Ann Cusack, John de Lancie, Judith Kahan;
Production year: 1996;
Genre: science fiction, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 117 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,1;
More information about the film “Multiplicity” on the website imdb.com
These films, ranging from thought-provoking dramas to action-packed thrillers, all provide a unique take on the complex issues surrounding cloning, making audiences ponder what it means to be human in a world where the line between natural and artificial life blurs.
In summary, films about clones delve into the complex tapestry of identity, ethics, and what it truly means to be human in the face of replicated existence. From the eerily prescient forewarnings of “Blade Runner” to the poignant existential queries raised by “Never Let Me Go,” these narratives challenge audiences to confront uncomfortable questions about individuality, the value of life, and the consequences of playing god. They push the boundaries of our imagination and force us to consider the implications of cloning on societal structures, relationships, and personal self-worth. Whether it's through the lens of action-packed adventures or introspective dramas, clone-centric films offer a rich ground for exploring the depths of human emotion, the potential for technological advancement, and the philosophical dilemmas of creation itself. As science inches closer to making the fiction of cloning a reality, these films serve not only as entertainment but as a cautionary exploration of the moral and ethical quandaries that await us in the near future.
