Hot Docs review: Human Nature

Film about genetic editing gives a human face to the science, and offers more hope than hysteria

By Norman Wilner

Apr 18, 2019

HUMAN NATURE (Adam Bolt, U.S.). 107 minutes. Rating: NNNN

After decades of inspiring science-fiction narratives from Huxley to Marvel Comics, genetic editing is now a reality thanks to CRISPR, which allows scientists to treat disease, correct genetic disorders and potentially alter the DNA of a fetus to remove unwanted characteristics – or add desired ones.

Bolt’s documentary explains the science swiftly, then explores the potential and nuance of gene-editing by talking to scientists, doctors and patients at the centre of the breakthrough. By matching human faces to the science – most memorably David Sanchez, a kid whose debilitating sickle-cell anemia could be eradicated with CRISPR treatment – Human Nature turns data into an engaging narrative, and one that’s more hopeful than hysterical.

April 27, 6 pm, Hot Docs Cinema April 28, 12:30 pm, TIFF 1 April 30, 12:30 pm, TIFF 1

Norman Wilner

A life-long Torontonian, Norman became the senior film writer for NOW in early 2008. Previously he had reviewed films for Metro newspapers across Canada and covered every video format imaginable (yes, even Beta).