Watch Genesis 2.0

Genesis 2.0 is a fascinating documentary that takes a deep dive into the world of genetic engineering and its implications. The movie is directed by Christian Frei and Maxim Arbugaev, with the latter also serving as the cinematographer. George Church, a world-renowned geneticist, also stars in the film and lends his expertise to the topics discussed.

The movie begins by introducing viewers to the remote, icy landscape of Siberia, where a group of men venture out to collect precious ivory tusks from woolly mammoths that are preserved in the permafrost. The tusks, which are worth millions of dollars, are highly sought after by traders in China, who use them to create ivory carvings and other luxury goods. The men take great risks to extract the tusks, using dynamite to blast through the frozen ground and then digging them out by hand.

As the movie progresses, it shifts its focus to the science of genetics, exploring the cutting-edge research that is being conducted around the world. George Church, who is a professor of genetics at Harvard University, is one of the leading voices in the field, and he offers his insights into the potential benefits and drawbacks of genetic engineering. He explains how DNA can be modified to eliminate diseases, improve cognitive function, and even extend the human lifespan.

The movie also delves into the ethics of genetic engineering, asking tough questions about the consequences of manipulating the natural world. It explores the risks of creating new species, such as genetically modified mosquitoes that could wipe out populations of other insects and birds. It also raises concerns about the possibility of using genetic engineering for nefarious purposes, such as creating super soldiers or designing new viruses that could be used as weapons.

Throughout the movie, the breathtaking shots of the Siberian landscape serve as a powerful backdrop to the discussions of science and ethics. The stark contrast between the barren, frozen tundra and the bustling research labs of Harvard and Zurich underscores the importance of the work being done in genetic engineering. It also serves as a reminder of the fragility of the natural world and the need to protect it against human interference.

One of the most compelling aspects of the movie is the way it explores the cultural significance of the woolly mammoth. The creatures, which went extinct thousands of years ago, are a source of fascination for many people around the world. Some see them as a symbol of a lost world, while others believe they could be brought back to life through genetic engineering. The movie explores both perspectives, interviewing scientists who believe it is possible to clone mammoths using the preserved DNA found in their tusks, as well as indigenous people who feel a strong connection to the creatures and oppose attempts to bring them back to life.

Overall, Genesis 2.0 is a thought-provoking documentary that raises important questions about the future of genetic engineering. It combines stunning visuals with expert commentary from some of the world's leading scientists, offering a balanced and nuanced exploration of the complex issues at play. Whether you are a scientist, an environmentalist, or just a curious viewer, this movie is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation of the power of genetics and the importance of ethical considerations in scientific research.

Genesis 2.0 is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 60.