"The light that burns twice as bright lasts half as long"

Rating: 10/10 (6 February 2007)

On first viewing of Blade Runner most people will be left confused and probably a little disappointed. Even thought the studio had there way to some extent (cutting part of Scotts original vision in order to increase profits) this was not a film made to appeal to a mass market audience. Anyone looking for a generic action film with an obvious conclusion will be disappointed. For these reasons it did fail commercially on its first release in 1982.
It could be best described as a film noir set in the future. Power hungry corporations harness control over a mixed race of neo-Tokyo lower-class citizens living in a decadent Los-Angeles slum. Enter Rick Decard a retired private eye who gets unwillingly hired to hunt down and eliminate a group of replicants who have escaped an off-world colony and arrived on earth to in order to extend their four year limited life span.
Based on the Philip K. Dick novel "Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep", there are many existential themes running throughout and many questions purposely left unanswered so the viewer can come to his own conclusion. What is the nature of our existence? What does it mean to be human? Do we fully appreciate life? Are but a few.
Everything about this film works. The cinematography is outstanding with every scene meticulously shot. The set and design are also stunning and still sets the standard for which every sci-fi film aspires too.
The actors are also cast perfectly. Harrison Ford plays Rick Decard a man troubled by the demons of the past with seemingly no escape from his violent reality. Rutgar Hauer is Roy Batty the replicant leader haunted by his mortality, unable to find a cure. The supporting cast also put in memorable performances. A special mention to the futuristic, synthetic score by Vangelis that draws the viewer deeper into Scotts dystopian view of the future. It gets better with repeat viewings in that you slowly uncover new insights into the character motivations and the heavy use of symbolism. Its a near flawless film and could entertain endless hours of discussion. Watch both the directors cut and voice over editions to fully appreciate this masterpiece.