The Immortalists

Think you'll be alive in 2030? If so, you might be in luck. Molecular biologist Bill Andrews and biomedical gerontologist Aubrey de Grey (described as “eccentric scientists” in the promotional material) hope that by 2030, science will have developed a prescription drug that will repair DNA, thus slowing, stopping, or even reversing aging and allowing the human body to exist for a very long time—centuries, perhaps even millennia. Another technology they ponder is the nanobot, a teensy critter-like object that would seek out and fix cellular damage inside the body. The two men are the focus of filmmakers David Alvarado and Jason Sussberg's documentary, seen here discussing the possibilities and enjoying their everyday lives with their spouses and others (pleasant scenes that are contrasted with shots of funerals and other not-so-cheery aspects of current reality), while computer animations depict some of the scientific principles involved. The Immortalists also includes some countervailing views (one skeptic denounces the “snake oil” being peddled here). On a planet groaning with the effort of supporting 7 billion humans, one wonders what the effect might be of allowing some—the rich and well-connected, no doubt—to continue living, perhaps even procreating, way beyond the “normal” human lifespan. DVD extras include a bonus debate on the subject at Britain's Oxford University. A fascinating exploration of what would have been considered total science fiction not long ago, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Gardner)