The DVD release of "Gattaca" offers a sharper picture than the laserdisc version.  While the laserdisc looked stunning, the DVD offers sharper fleshtones and depth in almost every scene.  The Dolby Digital 5.1 sound is equivalent to the laser release with a wide range of directional effects and excellent use of bass(LFE).   Another distinct advantage of the cheaper DVD,...DELETED SCENES!  The scenes haven't been color corrected, so they suffer greatly in quality compared to the rest of the DVD, but they are intriguing. 

Director/Writer Andrew Niccol has created a story that feels realistic in spite of its futuristic setting.  Much in the same way as he took on social issues in his script for "The Truman Show", he pushes the envelope further here.  There are far more "good" people implicated in an Orwellian nightmare this time.

Director Antoine Fuqua is obviously impressed with the films of  producer John Woo.  There are some great moments of action choreographed with ballet-style precision as bullets fly in all directions into all things.  Unfortunately, the story is extremely thin, the characters, walking cliches!   The film moves at a steady pace though, and its 88 minute running time is just right.  Most action fans will be impressed enough with the film's pacing that the lack of plot won't matter.

The DVD looks and sounds wonderful.  From the opening title sequence in which we're gliding over a harbor, the quality of the transfer is readily apparant.  Lights reflect over the waters, and the Dolby Digital 5.1 sound engulfs the viewer.  A featurette about the film's production is also included.