Equus & Gattaca are similar in the way they develop similar ideas around power and control in society, though Shaffer & Niccol have different approaches to this concept through filmic and theatre techniques.

Gattaca and Equus both explore the control and influence of higher divine powers by using sound motifs. Equus noise is an auditory feature that emerges from the choric effects of humming/thumping/stamping. This serves to indicate “Equus” the God. These audible devices highlight the power of the deity with a foreboding, provocative effect that intensifies as his influence on Alan increases. Niccol’s film shows Niccol’s Gattaca organization displaying the divine powers granted science with a presence that hovers over the characters as if watching them like a god. The constant background announcements over the Gattaca public address system, serves to remind the audience of this dictatorial authority, reinforcing the influence and involvement of the corporation in the actions of the robot-like employees.Alternatively, Shaffer draws on allusions to Equine dominance to further enforce the concept of a transcendent power. This is evident when Dora refers directly to horses in religious contexts, with “The glory of His nostrils is terrible!” and Alan mimics “He devours the ground in fierceness and anger!” These references highlight the horse’s power, which grows and metaastasizes in Alan’s mind as he seeks out this power. Shaffer uses selective language to emphasize Equus’ pure power. Alan’s descriptions are focused on Equus’ physical strength, using words like “big” or “huge,” and he also pays attention to the powerful parts of his body such as “neck”, “flank”, and “hooves”. Niccol contrasts this by using angled shots that show characters who are powerful in certain situations. This can be seen in the flashback opening scene. Vincent is shown at a low angle as a young child, and the next mid shot shows Niccol looking down on Vincent.

While both protagonists are confronted by the divine authority’s dominance, Shaffer & Niccol simultaneously use character development to examine complex shifts in power and how they relate to losing or gaining it. In Gattaca’s dystopian world success is a matter of having the perfect gene identity. Eugene, who was unable to give up his first name, insists that Vincent call Eugene “Eugene”. This symbolizes Vincent taking control of his destiny. Eugene is his offer. The composition conveys this transfer. Vincent stands taller than Eugene. Shaffer creates a relationship between Alan, Equus and Shaffer based on sexual dominance. This explores the possibility of power being gained by controlling. It is sexualized as riding a horse. Alan mentions many details, including how their necks twist. This sexual association comes from Alan’s experience riding Equus. He enjoys the feeling of power and the satisfaction of being able to command the horse.

Shaffer & Niccol explore how power can be lost in relationships. Gattaca focuses on slow montages and close-up fade in shots, which highlight the meticulous effort required for a man to appear powerful and genetically superior. Vincent adopts a totally new, dull and clean style for Mis-en–scene. He wears monochrome suits and has smooth, combed-hair. Vincent’s adherence to Gattaca norms is evident in this example. He is not only submissive but also under their control, and lacks the freedom to choose his own path. Vincent loses control over his professional and DNA lives after he has slept with Irene. Niccol creates an emotional connection between Vincent’s momentary weakness and Vincent’s past by using the melancholy melody, sepia tone colors, and setting on the beach. Vincent is revealed metaphorically and actually physically. It allows the audience see how Vincent can take more control of his life as an “invalidself”, which makes it clear that he has greater control. Vincent’s “invalid self” is shown metaphorically and physically by the director. This gives Vincent the illusion that he can control his life, even though he has the ability to follow his dream.

Gattaca is similar to Alan. After a sexual encounter, Equus provokes Alan and makes him commit the “crime.” The scene depicts Alan’s vulnerability through the staging movement. He tramples the horses while they jump high and naked in dark. These movements are intensified with lighting and signify that Alan is losing control. Equus exposes his mental and physical vulnerabilities. The violence of this crime links to Alan’s pursuit for power. This is the reinforced idea that Alan is a “Godslave”, where he occasionally holds the power over Equus but is always subject to his greater power.

Gattaca & Equus’ intricate relationships allow them to explore how power and control can influence our lives.