Splice: A Controversial Exploration of Gender, Power, and Playing God

In Splice, a horror film directed by Vincenzo Natali, scientists Clive and Elsa, played by Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley, push the boundaries of science—and ethics—in their quest to engineer a new life form capable of producing a valuable protein for their corporate employers. After multiple failed attempts, Elsa takes matters into her own hands, secretly splicing her own DNA into the genetic sequence. This act of defiance results in the creation of a new organism, later named Dren.

From its earliest stages, Dren’s development mirrors that of a human fetus, growing within a sac and undergoing rapid transformations. Early on, it instinctively injects hormones into its first host, triggering an empathetic, almost maternal response from Elsa. This marks the beginning of Dren’s identity formation, as it takes on the appearance of a young girl. This choice is significant—within a capitalist society, girls are often nurtured and provided for more than boys, a fact evident in consumer markets, where products and services overwhelmingly cater to women and girls. By presenting as female, Dren ensures its survival, securing the care and resources necessary for its development.

Society, in general, expresses greater empathy toward girls than boys, particularly during adolescence. However, as Dren matures, a shift occurs—both in its physical form and in how it is perceived. This transformation mirrors the sociological patterns of human life, where societal advantages often transition from women to men. While men face financial pressures, they typically navigate societal structures with greater ease than women.

This idea is further reinforced by Dren’s ultimate metamorphosis. As it sheds its female identity, it embraces a more aggressive, dominant masculinity—one driven by the instinct to survive and reproduce. This shift leads to a disturbing and tragic climax, one that underscores the film’s broader themes.

Despite its unsettling nature, Splice serves as a compelling commentary on survival, identity, and the ways in which gender influences societal treatment at different stages of life.