- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2017)
- Decoding Neanderthals (2013)
- The Gene: An Intimate History (2020)
- The Gene Doctors (2017)
- Cracking Your Genetic Code (2012)
- DNA: The Secret of Life (2003)
- The Human Genome Project (2001)
- The Ghost in Your Genes (2006)
- The Gene Revolution (2014)
- The Gene Hunters (2010)
Delving into the world of genetics is like opening a treasure chest of human knowledge. These documentaries not only shed light on the intricate workings of our DNA but also explore the ethical, social, and scientific implications of genetic discoveries. From the mapping of the human genome to the controversial applications of gene editing, this collection offers a comprehensive look at how genetics has shaped our understanding of life itself. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just curious about the building blocks of life, these films will captivate and enlighten you.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2017)
Description: While not strictly about genetics, this film tells the story of HeLa cells, which have been crucial in genetic research, and raises issues of consent and ethics in science.
Fact: The film stars Oprah Winfrey and was based on Rebecca Skloot's best-selling book.


Decoding Neanderthals (2013)
Description: This film investigates the genetic legacy of Neanderthals in modern humans, exploring how their DNA influences our traits and what it tells us about human evolution.
Fact: It includes the first sequencing of a Neanderthal genome.


The Gene: An Intimate History (2020)
Description: This documentary, based on Siddhartha Mukherjee's book, traces the history of genetics from Mendel's peas to the modern era, exploring how genes shape our lives and the ethical dilemmas they pose.
Fact: The film features interviews with leading geneticists and includes personal stories from families affected by genetic diseases.


The Gene Doctors (2017)
Description: This documentary follows scientists working on gene therapies, showcasing the potential to cure genetic diseases and the challenges they face in bringing these treatments to the public.
Fact: It features the story of a young boy with a rare genetic disorder who was one of the first to receive gene therapy.


Cracking Your Genetic Code (2012)
Description: This NOVA documentary delves into the personal genome revolution, showing how genetic testing can predict health risks and the implications for privacy and discrimination.
Fact: It was one of the first documentaries to discuss direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits.


DNA: The Secret of Life (2003)
Description: This film explores the discovery of DNA's structure by Watson and Crick and its impact on science, medicine, and society, including the ethical considerations of genetic manipulation.
Fact: Features interviews with James Watson, one of the discoverers of DNA's double helix structure.


The Human Genome Project (2001)
Description: A documentary that chronicles the monumental effort to map all human genes, detailing the scientific breakthroughs and the race to complete the project.
Fact: The film includes footage from the announcement of the first draft of the human genome.


The Ghost in Your Genes (2006)
Description: This Horizon documentary explores epigenetics, the study of how genes can be turned on or off by environmental factors, offering a new perspective on inheritance.
Fact: It discusses the Dutch Hunger Winter study, showing how famine can affect the genes of future generations.


The Gene Revolution (2014)
Description: This documentary examines the potential of genetic engineering to solve global problems like food scarcity and disease, while also addressing the ethical concerns.
Fact: It features interviews with both proponents and critics of GMOs.


The Gene Hunters (2010)
Description: This documentary follows scientists on a quest to find genes responsible for various diseases, highlighting the personal stories of those affected and the scientific breakthroughs.
Fact: It includes the discovery of a gene mutation that causes a rare form of Parkinson's disease.
