Member review

Blade Runner is a 1982 sci-fi film written by Hampton Fancher and David Peoples and directed by Ridley Scott. It is loosely based on the book ‘Do Androids dream of Electric sheep?’. In the film we follow Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a ‘Blade Runner’ who must track down and kill four escaped replicants, before his mission gets complicated when he meets and falls in love with Rachel (Sean Young), a young replicant.

This film was set almost four decades after it’s release, now of course that’s only next year, and it doesn’t look like replicants, flying cars, and off world colonies are coming anytime soon. However this doesn’t at all affect the world created in this masterpiece. Everything about the world and its environment feels incredibly real. The lighting that complements the extraordinary set design is phenomenal thanks to the brilliant cinematographer Jordan Cronenweth. The music composed by Vangelis is awe inspiring and inspired the use of Synth soundtracks in future films. All of these factors combined make an incredible atmosphere and an amazing cinematic experience that more than holds up today and will no doubt stay a classic for many years to come as it has done so far.

The performances by all of the cast is flawless. Rutger Hauer as Roy Batty is however the stand out performance other than Harrison Ford. As a villain he brings everything that a good villain needs. Not only power and the fear factor that comes with it, but the fact that you can really sympathise for his character and understand his motives. There are times in this film where I feel like Deckard is the real villain.

Overall this film is not only a sci-fi classic, but a classic film in its own right. It is just one of many amazing films that Ridley Scott has directed and his footprints are all over this film. The film is a real slow burner, many long takes and moments for tension. It is without a doubt a thinking film, and not some easy watch action packed sci-fi with lasers. If that sounds like something you think you can appreciate and enjoy, then I would implore you to watch it.