Watch Perfect People

Perfect People is a captivating drama that takes viewers on a thought-provoking journey into the world of genetic engineering and the ethical dilemmas it poses. This 1988 film, directed by Bruce Kessler, features a stellar cast including Lauren Hutton, Perry King, and Priscilla Barnes. Set in a not-too-distant future, the story unfolds in a society that has made significant advancements in genetic engineering, allowing parents to select and manipulate specific traits in their unborn children. This newfound power has led to the creation of a group of genetically perfected individuals known as the "Perfect People."

The film primarily focuses on two main characters, Laura Sterner (played by Lauren Hutton) and Charles Richardson (played by Perry King). Laura is a successful obstetrician who becomes emotionally torn when tasked with assisting wealthy couples in selecting and designing their perfect children. Charles, on the other hand, is a brilliant geneticist who becomes disillusioned with the potential consequences of this powerful technology.

As Laura continues her work, her perspective starts to change when she meets an impoverished couple, Judith (played by Priscilla Barnes) and Jake Epstein (played by Timothy Daly). Despite their limited financial means, Judith and Jake naturally conceive a child, but due to the genetic disparities between them, their baby is born with a potentially fatal heart condition.

Driven by her compassion and growing doubts about the morality of genetic engineering, Laura provides assistance to Judith and Jake, offering them the opportunity to participate in a secret experiment that could cure their child's condition. This act of defiance against the establishments' rigid regulations and her own internal conflict sets in motion a series of events that challenge the notion of perfection itself.

As the film progresses, Laura's involvement inadvertently unravels a hidden conspiracy within the Perfect People program, shaking the very foundations of the society that endorsed this radical form of human manipulation. With the help of Charles, the skeptical geneticist, Laura uncovers devastating secrets that bring her face-to-face with powerful forces determined to protect the status quo.

Perfect People raises thought-provoking questions surrounding the topics of eugenics, parental choice, and the consequences of playing God with human genetics. It delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by those who grapple with the seemingly boundless possibilities of science and its impact on society.

The film effectively explores the emotional turmoil experienced by Laura as she confronts her own complicity in perpetuating a system that prioritizes artificial perfection over natural diversity. Lauren Hutton delivers a powerful performance, portraying Laura's internal journey with vulnerability and conviction. Her character's growth from a staunch supporter to a force of opposition provides an emotional anchor throughout the film.

Perry King's portrayal of Charles Richardson, a man burdened by the knowledge of the dangers inherent in playing with genetics, adds depth and complexity to the narrative. His character embodies the voice of reason and serves as a catalyst for Laura's transformation.

Notably, Priscilla Barnes delivers a compelling performance as Judith Epstein, a woman desperate to save her child from a life-threatening condition. Her emotional journey provides a grounded perspective amid the film's larger philosophical debates.

Perfect People successfully intertwines personal narratives with broader societal implications, exploring the consequences of a society obsessed with perfection and the potential erosion of individuality and diversity. Kessler's direction effectively balances the intellectual discussions with emotional resonance, creating a thought-provoking and engaging cinematic experience.

While Perfect People may not have achieved commercial success upon its release, the film's themes and ethical questions continue to resonate with audiences. It acts as a cautionary tale, challenging viewers to contemplate the implications and responsibilities associated with manipulating human genetics.

In conclusion, Perfect People is a compelling drama from 1988 that delves into the controversial world of genetic engineering. Through its nuanced characters and thought-provoking storyline, the film invites viewers to engage in introspection and consider the ethical boundaries of scientific progress.

Perfect People is a 1988 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.