Watch Human Nature

Human Nature is a thought-provoking and comprehensive documentary that dives deep into the revolutionary world of CRISPR, a groundbreaking gene-editing technology that has the potential to change the course of human evolution. Released in 2019, the film features a pantheon of leading minds in genetics and bioethics, including eminent figures like Jennifer Doudna, who co-invented the CRISPR-cas9 technology, George Church, an influential synthetic biologist, and Alta Charo, a renowned professor of law and bioethics. Together, these experts demystify CRISPR's complex science and explore its profound implications.

At its core, Human Nature examines the power and perils that come with the ability to rewrite the code of life. The documentary delves into the history of genetic research, tracing it from its early beginnings to the advent of CRISPR, an acronym for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats. The film explains the biological mechanism behind CRISPR, showcasing how it was first discovered in bacteria as a defense against viruses and how scientists have harnessed this system to make precise edits in the genomes of various organisms, including humans.

Jennifer Doudna's role in the film is pivotal; she elucidates her journey from uncovering the potential of CRISPR with her collaborator Emmanuelle Charpentier to grappling with the ethical concerns that arise from such a potent tool. Doudna's insights into the scientific process, along with her contemplations on the moral dimensions of gene editing, provide the audience with an intimate look at the responsibilities scientists face when their work has global impact.

George Church lends his expertise to the narrative by discussing the expansive possibilities that CRISPR technology presents. His perspective on the potential applications, ranging from eradicating genetic diseases to reviving extinct species, offers viewers a glimpse into a future where genetic modification could become a part of everyday life. Church's vision prompts viewers to consider the technical and ecological ramifications of such advancements.

Alta Charo provides a crucial ethical and regulatory lens to the film's discourse. Her commentary on the legal and policy aspects of gene editing underscores the necessity for societal dialogue and consensus in the face of this transformative power. Charo's analysis aids in dissecting the complex questions about who gets to decide how CRISPR is used and who will have access to its benefits.

Human Nature artfully interweaves these expert testimonies with real-life stories of individuals and families affected by genetic diseases. These personal narratives imbue the documentary with emotional depth, reminding the audience of the human faces behind the scientific debates. The film presents the poignant journeys of those who see in CRISPR a beacon of hope for curing previously untreatable conditions, highlighting the profound impact that medical interventions at the genetic level could have on people's lives.

Moreover, the documentary doesn't shy away from controversial topics. It tackles head-on the ethical dilemmas of "designer babies," the specter of eugenics, and the potential for unintended consequences of gene editing. By giving a voice to various stakeholders, including scientists, ethicists, patients, and advocates, Human Nature encourages a multifaceted conversation about the promise and pitfalls of interfering with the essence of life.

Visually, the film employs crisp cinematography, animated illustrations, and clear graphics to break down complex scientific concepts, making the subject matter accessible to viewers without a scientific background. The use of archival footage and experimental imagery reinforces the feeling of being at the frontier of a scientific revolution.

At its essence, Human Nature is not just a documentary about a groundbreaking scientific tool; it is a meditation on the human condition, our quest for perfection, and the boundaries of our control over nature. It confronts viewers with tough questions about progress and power. Do we have the right to manipulate our genetic destiny? Should we? And at what cost?

As the narrative unfolds, Human Nature serves as an ever-timely reminder of the rapidly evolving landscape of genetic research. It compels its audience to grapple with the ethics of innovation and the responsibilities that come with unprecedented capabilities. Ultimately, the film does not provide easy answers but rather sparks ongoing dialogue—a conversation that is as crucial as ever as humanity stands on the brink of potentially life-altering genetic revolutions.

Human Nature is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7 and a MetaScore of 77.