As good as science fiction gets on the big screen!

Rating: 10/10 (5 July 2002)

(WARNING: These comments contain some spoilers.)
This movie is as good as science fiction gets on the big screen. I think it suffered because the title and premise left people expecting an action flick when what they got was a dramatic, moderately paced story set in the future with a film noir flair.
The special effects were incredible, even by today's standards. All of the images were beautifully dark and disturbing. I'll never forget J.F. Sebastian's haunting genetic toys!
For a simple story on the surface, it had far more depth beneath. It's definitely not a movie where who the bad guys are is really ever clear. The Blade Runner hates his job- he feels like a murderer. Is he?

The director's cut introduces the notion of Deckard being a replicant himself. I prefer this version. The voice overs in the original are largely redundant and unnecessary despite sometimes providing additional insight. I also hate happy endings.
My main complaint is that this probably would never happen. Why make super-human slaves so human that they don't want to be slaves? If Tyrell were truly so brilliant you'd think he'd have more foresight, unless perhaps he dementedly wanted things to turn out like they did.
Still the themes and moral dilemmas the movie presents are relevant and provocative. This movie is a must see for fans of good, intelligent movies. Just don't expect an action flick.