Death-Wish

Rating: 10/10 (22 July 2003)

I have a deep respect for Ridley Scott. Even though his more recent works haven't been up to snuff, I admire him because, unlike other noted directors like Steven Spielberg, he takes the time to provide a commentary on his DVDs. Even for ALIEN he managed to create an interesting side-view to the action. John Frankenheimer also tried, but since he's gone we will never hear from him again. How sad...
Blade Runner is phenomenal in writing, artistry, and casting. In truth, the movie is probably a production designer's worst nightmare. For the record, any and all references I make to the movie are towards the infinitely superior Director's Cut. The visuals are dark and dazzling, creating images that are nowadays the definitive look of the future. Minority Report wishes it were this good.
But all flash and no show would take this movie very low. Thankfully, Harrison Ford proves he can be emotional and not a cynical, swaggering comic book character. It's too bad Rutger Hauer never went on to anything better, but he's too limited as an actor. Other than hate and empathy, he never gets any emotions out. The rest of the cast is perfect for their obscure, crazy roles.
The human (or non-human) factors of Blade Runner are what sets it apart from other films in the genre and raises it to the level of 2001: A Space Odyssey and Dr. Strangelove. While I am not as familiar with noir as I'd like to admit, Blade Runner also emits its own distinctive mood that is undeniable. It's too bad that Scott has fallen into a commercial pit that he is trying to claw his way out of.
Overall, an amazing film that should be required viewing by all sci-fi and humanitarian fans. The depth and breath of this "futuristic detective flick" ranges from an obviously classical inspiration to the modern view of mortality and machinery. Time is well spent watching this. 5 out of 5 stars.