Synthetic biology is a field that's pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible in science. From creating new life forms to redesigning existing ones, this discipline is at the forefront of innovation. This curated list of documentaries dives deep into the world of synthetic biology, offering viewers a glimpse into the labs, the minds, and the ethical debates surrounding this revolutionary science. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just curious about the future, these films provide a fascinating look at how we're redefining life itself.

Redesigning Life (2019)
Description: This documentary explores the potential of synthetic biology to solve global issues like climate change and food security. It features interviews with leading scientists and showcases groundbreaking experiments.
Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the Wellcome Trust, ensuring a high level of scientific accuracy.


The Gene Revolution (2016)
Description: Focused on the ethical and societal implications of gene editing, this documentary delves into the CRISPR technology and its potential to alter human evolution.
Fact: It includes exclusive footage from the labs of Jennifer Doudna, one of the pioneers of CRISPR.


Life 2.0 (2018)
Description: A journey through the labs where scientists are creating synthetic organisms, this film looks at how these creations could revolutionize medicine, energy, and the environment.
Fact: The documentary was filmed over three years, capturing the evolution of several synthetic biology projects.


The Code of Life (2015)
Description: This film examines the history and future of DNA manipulation, focusing on how synthetic biology could change our understanding of life.
Fact: It features interviews with Craig Venter, known for creating the first synthetic cell.


Synthetic Biology: The Future of Life (2021)
Description: An in-depth look at how synthetic biology is being used to address some of the world's biggest challenges, from creating biofuels to designing new medicines.
Fact: The film was screened at the Royal Institution, London, as part of their science film festival.


The Synthetic Age (2020)
Description: This documentary explores the intersection of synthetic biology with art, ethics, and philosophy, questioning what it means to be human in a world where we can design life.
Fact: It includes a segment on bioart, where artists use synthetic biology to create living artworks.


Designing Life (2017)
Description: A documentary that follows the journey of scientists as they attempt to create synthetic organisms, exploring the potential benefits and risks.
Fact: The film was part of a series on emerging technologies by the BBC.


The New Biology (2014)
Description: This film provides an overview of synthetic biology, from its origins to its current applications, including interviews with key figures in the field.
Fact: It was one of the first documentaries to cover the DIY biology movement.


Synthetic Life (2013)
Description: A look at the ethical, social, and scientific challenges of creating synthetic life, featuring discussions with scientists, ethicists, and policymakers.
Fact: The film was nominated for a British Documentary Award.


The Future of Life (2022)
Description: This documentary explores the potential of synthetic biology to redefine life as we know it, with a focus on its applications in space exploration and terraforming.
Fact: It includes interviews with scientists from NASA's Synthetic Biology initiative.
