A Visually Spellbinding Neo-Noir, Sci-Fi Classic That I Admire More Than I Love

Rating: Null/10 (17 October 2017)

One of the most influential works of sci-fi & a prime example of neo-noir cinema, Blade Runner is an impeccable blend of jaw-dropping art direction, groundbreaking special effects, breathtaking photography, stellar sound & iconic score, and was way ahead of its time.
Set in 2019 Los Angeles, the story follows a retired cop whose former job was to hunt down & "retire" bioengineered androids called replicants, manufactured to be used as slaves in off-world colonies. But when four replicants commit mutiny, he is called out of retirement to track & eliminate them.
Directed by Ridley Scott, Blade Runner showcases his obsession with details better than any of his works. Every set piece is refined to smallest of details and plays a key role in magnifying the film's overall look & feel. Scott unfolds things at a slow pace but neither its plot nor characters are as compelling as its futuristic setting.
From the technical standpoint, Blade Runner is a marvel. Production design is one of its highlights that effectively bring its dystopian setting to life. The rain-soaked, polluted surrounding is an inspired choice while the apt use of color palette & ideal lighting amplify the visuals greatly. Special effects work is top-notch while Vangelis' synthesized score brims with a quality of its own.
Coming to the performances, Harrison Ford plays Deckard with panache but it's the actor and not the script that makes this character stand out. Sean Young plays her part with a touch of innocence. Rutger Hauer's character doesn't seem interesting at first yet he is the one who leaves the most lasting impression of all in the end. And the rest deliver fine support in their given roles.
On an overall scale, Blade Runner has aged remarkably well over the years and looks as spellbinding today as it did at its time of release. But its plot & characters lack that same level of sophistication from Scott, and the glacial pace makes it a frustrating sit. I appreciate a lot many things about it and do get its legacy but its story never stimulated me as deeply as its technical accomplishments did. Multiple viewings advised.