Stream or Skip? I’m a synthetic biologist and here’s my review of ‘Biohackers’ on Netflix

'Biohackers' (Credit: Netflix)

Glow-in-the-dark mice, gene-modded weed and payment microchips in your hand? That's the surprisingly realistic science backdrop of Biohackers, but that's where it stays. 

Biohackers, the six-episode German sci-fi series set in Freiburg, was released on Aug 20th. Biohacking is an umbrella term comprising synthetic biology, DIY science, bodyhacking, and health optimization. 
Looking back, the expensive genetic engineering experiments that could only be carried out behind the walls of big institutions can now be done on a kitchen table with ingredients bought on eBay. Synthetic biology brought the alchemizing tools of life into the hands of everyone. 
The timely premise is, therefore, 'the creature becomes the creator'. More science thriller than science fiction, the show's unconventional conspiracy plot delivers slow-building suspense until its cliffhanger ending.  ​

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