Mimic (1997) is a science fiction horror film directed by Guillermo del Toro in his Hollywood directorial debut. Based on a short story by Donald A. Wollheim, the film explores themes of genetic engineering, evolution, and the unintended consequences of tampering with nature.

Set in New York City, Mimic follows Dr. Susan Tyler (played by Mira Sorvino), an entomologist who, along with her colleague Dr. Peter Mann (Jeremy Northam), develops a genetically engineered breed of cockroach to fight a deadly disease spread by another species of cockroaches. These engineered cockroaches, known as “Judas breed,” are designed to kill the disease-carrying insects and stop the epidemic. However, the Judas breed begins to evolve and mutate in unpredictable ways, developing the ability to mimic human characteristics—specifically, the appearance of humans.

Years later, the “Judas breed” has grown into a deadly and intelligent species, now capable of hiding in plain sight as they hunt and kill humans. Dr. Tyler, along with a small group of survivors, must track down and stop the mutated creatures before they wipe out the city.