I don't need the blu ray, I have the 5 disk special edition. I bought it new a few years ago for only £6. And it wasn't online. It was at a HMV store. Sometimes I like to think that Deckard and Rachel were the two other replicants of the original six. But that wouldn't work because if that were true, then Roy would've recognized him, unless he never met him prior to the Offworld incident.
& what did a can of coke cost in those days, 20 cents? (A bottle of coke cost 5 cents as did a phone call in early 1950s; house rent might be $30 a month, gold $36 an ounce, tho u cud not own gold as such until Nixon) - inflation old boy.
or mayb not prhaps . he saw things ppL wouLdnt bLiev , atakd ships on fire off tha shouLdr of Orion , he watchd c-beams gLitr in tha dark near anhausr gate , kisd MichL Pfeifr in Lady hawk tha face of Lov , pLotd against Batman Bruce Wayne Crstian BaLe and Morgan Freeman , soo many othrs during ovr through tha years , aLL those momnts wont b Lost Like tears in rain
That is definitely one of the many unspoken subtexts of this movie. Much is implied, leaving it to the person seeing the movie to interpret it. That was the reason why the tacked on the clumsy narration and "happy ending." At least the Final Cut edition corrected those errors, along with having Joanna Cassidy, at her own suggestion, digitally put back into the movie for her death scene and Harrison Ford's son's mouth digitally inserted to match Harrison's original dialogue in Taffy's Night Club.
Blade Runner was set in 2019 so that was the year Roy Batty died ..... as did Rutger Hauer in real life. Although sad it is also somewhat poetic as Rutger and Roy seem to have been intrinsically linked.
poetic fuL circL . one of Rutgr's Last moovies VaLerian , fuL of computr gnrated spciaL-fcts and boring , city of a 1000 thousands pLanets worLds has it's momnts , but is no sci-fi cLasic Like bLade-runr
I was fortunate to attend an acting and scripting workshop with Rutger in Cape Town. It was a very laid back affair. He had a lot of charisma and was hands on in transferring knowledge.
Fun fact : this film premiered on the same day as John Carpenter's The Thing. Coincidentally, both movies were critically panned at their release but both became cult classics years later
Blade Runner is 35 years old today. From a cult favourite known from butchered theatrical releases to a bona fide classic with an anticipated sequel, this film has had quite a journey.
Projekt:Kobra I don’t think Blade Runner ever “needed” a sequel, and can stand perfectly well on its own, but they did a good job. But It’s worth bearing in mind that at the time when I posted this, Blade Runner 2049 was a few months away from release , people were getting excited to see it and it turned out to be highly acclaimed and, in my opinion, an organic and respectful film that carries the themes of the original film. My original point was that Blade Runner was ahead of its time and is more beloved and respected today than it was in 1982.
Projekt:Kobra I’m starting to get mixed feelings about this conversation. But I do think Disney reaping the “rewards” of their decisions regarding Star Wars has serious weight to it. Best we leave it at that.
Projekt:Kobra In the sense like what started as a conversation about Blade Runner became a discourse on the wider problems with Hollywood and its continued decadence. I sure don’t want to argue over respective opinions on the Blade Runner sequel, or taste in films. Just keep things cool.
I always thought of Deckard as human. The movie makes more sense thematically because it provides the contrast between the human and replicant, and shows the blurring line between them.
Thats a misconception. Since the unicorn shot was shot back in 82 duriong the filming itself. So deckard was always a replicant. This is scotts version, not yours or mine. Deckards past is meant to be looked at by him, in question. He doesnt know who the people are in all his pictures, and theres reasons why his strength level isnt that of a replicant combat model. Deckard is meant to appear as human as possible. Because of the outlaw prohibition on earth for replicants. This means that deckard could only exist on earth, by appearing entirely human, but he was smarter then the other replicants able to track them down. The unicorn scene is apart of ridelys original cut. You are going off the studios alternate version. Deckard IS a replicant. How can a man have a baby with a biomechanical synthetic human? MAkes no sense, like fucking a dilhole and making a baby. The ground work was laid, but people fail to see it. Like was deckard really a blade runner in the past? OR was his meeting with bryant and gaf, actually the first time they met? Gaf had access to deckards filers, which shows he knew more about deckard then deckard did himself. And he hints at this again in 2049. Considering replicants are identitified by their eyes, and gaf literally says theres something in his eyes. And the qoute from treasure island, is a dead give away. Go back and read jim hawkins inner thoughts about gum after he says that line. And it will tell you exxactly why deckard IS a replicant.
I don't think the "love" scene between Deckard and Rachael was supposed to be romantic. It may have been written as such in the script, but I see Deckard more as taking advantage of this android who doesn't have a proper concept of love while he's a little drunk, and enforces the anti-hero persona of his character. And it's only after the rest of the events in this movie that that opportunism turns into genuine affection.
+Kevin Striker Deckard doesn't have the full range of human emotions. He's got lust and a desire for companionship and understanding but its all immature and broken. I only lend that bit of sympathy because of the similar odd ways he deals with everything else. Were his actions over the line by our standards, yes, but HIS standards which are based on artificially implanted memories of a ruined marriage which he has just found out to be false are obviously blown to pieces which should give him a degree of leniency. I also give Rachel some degree of agency as she saves his life and still comes back at the end.
I think it works either way, but the original story has him as human. The ambiguities were added by the screenwriter while adapting it. Personally I really don't think there's enough evidence that he isn't human, and nor does the film go out of its way to dangle in front of the audience much suggestion that he isn't. It's a false controversy. It reminds me of the Total Recall arguments - there's no real evidence Quaid is dreaming, and too much that he isn't.
Ridley's insistence on making a perfect film set the stage for letting directors being able to have artistic freedom. The quality of the special effects (which were not computerized or cgi'ed) has never been surpassed. BR is the best "analogue" film ever made. In 1982 it was beyond mind blowing. I saw it in a theatre back then when I as 32 and it changed my life. The soundtrack is exquisite It is by far the best Scifi movie ever made. It will be interesting if BR 2 will be able compare.
BR: 2049 will probably not be as good. However I always say that bad sequels generally make the originals look better because we can see what made the originals work in comparison.
TO ME there is NO WAY Rick is a Replicant, that just does not work. The whole movie is the story of him becoming less cold and learning as HUMAN from a MACHINE! AND The unicorn theory in particular. Gaff makes countless figurines of various animals. Him making a Unicorn is just not a justifiable excuse. To me i took the unicorn more of a symbol that he knows Rick is hiding the Replicant, but that she is very unique, a Unicorn. Rick see's this and thinks "oh shit, Gaff is gonna be coming" and takes off in the Elevator to escape with his robo-girl.
ridley scott may have wanted deckard to be a replicant for the film, but read the book... deckard is married, and pris and rachel are identical models, whicj is how he confirms rachel is a replicant (andie in the book). also, in the novel deckard acts emotion-less because people "dial" different emotional states throughout the day, based on what kind of situation they face... i'm not saying RS didn't try to make deckard an android, but the source material states he is not. he's an android bounty hunter only
Greatest movie score of all time for me. Its dreamy, sensuous quality gives a very specific juxtaposition that gives the movie a unique feel. Not a conventional dystopia, but one that emphasizes warmth, humanity, beauty, the preciousness of life. It’s the most beautiful movie ever made.
For anyone interested in the music; the lead synth used primarily throughout the movie is the yamaha CS-80. Also used prominently is the Sequential Circuits Prophet 5 and the E-mu Emulator. All these machines are worth thousands now.
Synths are good but way they were mixed is insane. Soft, organic, electronic. All at once. You could recreate exact same base sound and come nowhere close to insane emotion sounds carry in OST.
Riff Raff i didn't think this masterpiece needed a sequel. But with Denis villenueve on board as director, I'm desperate for a sequel now. Like with Ridley Scott, I love all his movies. His masterpiece Incendies is one of the best movie I've seen, which was a critical n commercial success. A haunting, disturbing piece of work.
The Kurt Russell film Soldier apparently has links to Blade Runner, although I think it's more so called Easter eggs, with locations being shared in one particular scene.
It takes a couple viewings for sure. Kind of like 2001 A Space Odyssey, and especially with Blade Runner 2049. The new film has so much to take in that you can't possibly get it all in one or two viewings.
@Oliver Harper: "All those moments will be lost in time like tears in rain. Time to die" ... Goodbye Roy/Rutger ... RIP ... and thank you for creating one of the most memorable monologues in the history of cinema ... this was the hook that made me fall in love with the movie Bladerunner ... (my other favorite line from the movie: "Chew, if only you could see what I've seen with your eyes") ... When I watch Roy, I am reminded of Kirk's eulogy for Mr.Spock, in ST2: The Wrath of Khan, where he says "Of all the souls I have encountered in my travels, his was the most human." I feel this way about Roy. Thank you for the excellent analysis and video ...
I get the impression that although Hannibal and Sebastian were close associates of Eldon Tyrell, they were not official employees of the monolithic, impregnable looking Tyrell Corp. (a city sized Replicant factory) and were more likely consultants and early start up partners screwed out of the Rplicant patents held by the super rich Eldon Tyrell (Hannibal got by with his small Replicant eye business, making synthetic eyes for hospitals, while the more screwed over Sebastian became an eccentric recluse - easier for Batty's crew to get to, after failing to directly storm the Tyrell pyramids).
TedShatner10 yep! But Hannibal not so much! I don't think he helped create them but was really good with the eyes, so he became what he was in the movie!
Hannibal Chew actually says to Roy that he designed his eyes. I got the impression that they were independent contractors who specialize in particular sub-systems or organs (eyes, ears, nervous system, skin, etc.), but as a result of the complexity of the Nexus line, developed a strong personal relationship with Tyrell as consultants. I'm even willing to bet that most of their work goes into designing the organs for fake animals, like the ones you see elsewhere in the movie (Zhora's snake, those ostriches, etc.)
@@alchemelixor5508 apologies for the delay. Here are 49 videos. There’s a lot of overlap but some rare footage and interviews too. th-cam.com/play/PL2RnHjughp9ejGWlX46-ujT9CqsDqr9Mb.html
I said the same thing before I saw your post. I absolutely agree. For a movie that has great symbolism, accept the fact that you stumbled upon a great one.
I agree (& that's an excellent & elegant way of putting it) i seen the movie as a 12 yr old kid & Loved every part about it!! (Even Harrison's voice over's in the original film) though many not agree with that.. but I thought it added to Retro feel of the old film noir of detective movies from the 50's & 60's! Despite it being set in future which I luv about the film!! (But I don't think many ppl picked up that aspect of the flim) & they set out to make all those changes the way they did. Either way it stands the test of time as Absoulute Master piece in mind!!
Oh Oliver, you bring so much happiness and enjoyment to people all around the world with your wonderful homage-reviews. I am truly happy that I found your channel. Best from Israel
good point. But I hate it when people like the op just make silly "bandwagon" comments and don't back it up. Ive actually asked people the sa,e question before and they say "uuuuh .....you know.... cause it is" which leads me to believe that people seem to like it cause that's the cool thing to do. Personally I think that with every viewing it seems to get a little better, but first time I watched it was just disappointing, some of the dialogue was weird, the thing with roy and the googly eyes. and it changes pace really weirdly, fromslowly trudging for 3/4 of the movie all of a sudden it becomes a super weird cat and mouse chase as roy goes crazy and then all of a sudden saves Harrison fords life and seems to return to sense. Even if he did return to normal, Why did he save his life.? I did love the tears in rain part though. and where the hell did he get that dove?
Undoubtedly one of the greatest sci fi films ever made. The visual style of Ridley Scott, and his brother Tony (The Hunger), is beautiful and impeccable. Excellent retropespective!
Blade runner is my all time favorite movie! I saw this movie as a child and was blown away by it. Seen it many times and new editions and still leaves me in awe! I became i HUGE Vangelis fan and love all his music!
This is quite possibly one of my favourite movies of all time. A true masterpiece - 10/10. Can't wait for the sequel and many critics said that it's as good as the original. 😆
This has and will always remain my favorite movie of Ridley Scott. The amount of thematic layers within this film are immense. They aren't forceful or bloated. They just make sense. This movie also made me appreciate Noir and Cyberpunk as a genre a lot more. But more importantly, it is one of those films where when you rewatch it(especially, the various cuts), you gleam so much more from the movie each time. The soundtrack of this film is amazing. I often say that music should serve as a complement to the story. And this soundtrack succeeds in portraying the great mood and narrative within the film. I wholeheartedly agree this guy needs to get more work via the Superhero genre(maybe a Question movie?). Finally, the visuals to Bladerunner still to this day are gorgeous. You know when a film is timeless when its effects still look realistic and beleivable. The use of model and the various film techniques showcase the utter brilliance of the production crew. I cannot even say this about Star Wars(some of my favorite films), for some of those models are showing their age. Even if diehard fans(I am one of them) refuse to admit it. Overall, I sincerely thank you for doing such a wonderful retrospective. Blade Runner is such a significant film. Aside from giving us a real thought provoking story, it changed the way people viewed science fiction. Other franchises, like Ghost in the Shell, Deus Ex; have all taken inspiration from this film. It illuminated the way for noir and dark science fiction movies. As a result, you have my utmost respect.
Absolutely fell in love with Blade Runner from an early age. Gripping score, unlike anything I ever listened to before, and even now, 33+ years after its release. I once lived in LA and whenever I'd nap, the Esper Edition score would play in the background. Try it sometime, you'll remember what it was like sleeping like a baby. I even went so far as to acquire all the various editions of the score: Regular release, Esper Edition, 25th anniversary complete, limited 29th anniversary, and of course the 3 disc 2007 release which followed the Final Cut. I am needless to say a huge fan of this stunning cinematic masterpiece.
It's been awhile since I saw the movie, but I was under the impression that Pris was planted by Roy deliberately to meet Sebastion and it wasn't an accident. I'll have to watch it again. Thanks for another great review!
Excellent retrospective...... However you miss the point completely about the sex scene between Deckard and Rachel. Deckard questions his humanity and identity... thus wanting power and control over "replicants" he asserts force on Rachel to show how real humans should be in control. Watch his reactions to Rachel later in the movie and you will see he does indeed become softer and more understanding. Hence supporting the theory confirmed by ridley Scott that he finally comes to grips with the possibility of him being a replicant as well.
+Jason Troy I think Deckard is a little rough on Rachel because he, as a replicant himself, is built with the purpose of being a hunter of replicants, so its natural that he may have used a little excessive force when dealing with Rachel (who is a replicant) who is trying to run away from him (she's conflicted with being attracted to him yet feels she should avoid intimacy with someone who kills her kind for a living)... There is a readjustment of roles between the two of them so he's probably doing things in a fumbling way initially until he learns to become more gentle with her later on in the movie ..
J. T. We have to remember that Rachel being a replicant may have had no physical contact with men. Maybe she has no memories of a sexual encounter. Seems like she was sheltered by Tyrell. It shows In her tentative moves, hesitation n fear (.running away from deckard) when deckard was trying to kiss her. This can be misconstrued as lack of chemistry.
The number one negative review is the slow pace of the movie. I got the feeling that they slowed it down in an attempt to add to the depressing and dark reality of the future. Giving you time to sink in all the fine details in every scene. After all its the scenery that people remember the most about this movie. That went on to inspire alot of futurists down the road. Anyways I'm glad this kind of movie was made even if it was unintentional.
Nah, I think it's impossible to excuse a slow pace unless if something interesting is going on. In this movie, harrison ford does very little detecting, the villain is off screen for ages and very little else is happening.
The slow pace is perfect, it allows you to just lose yourself in that world, both visually and aureally, to take in all the details and imagine yourself living in that universe, it's sublime
I took your advice and ordered today the 25th anniversary boxset sound track . already own the film and this is one of my favourite movies .so happy to find your channel and have truly learned lots of stuff.
Ah Snatcher, I love how it's basically a hotchpotch of Blade Runner + Terminator + Metal Gear + Bubblegum Crisis , and even uses Sting from Dune as a character
9 minutes in, and I can already say, amazing review, Oliver, as always. Another thing to mention: I've at one point kept rewinding the scene where Roy dies and we hear the music continuing on; Never have I ever cried so hard at such a scene. But once again I can already tell you're hitting the nail *perfectly*. I've had similar thoughts like you when I first saw it, but now thanks to u, I'm gonna give 'Blade Runner' another watch, now with a new perspective on it. Thank u, Oliver. ;D THIS VIDEO DESERVES A MILLION VIEWS!!! SPREAD THE WORD! Ever since I've saw that scene (this was before I read more about the film and its themes), I'vs always felt the reason why Roy wanted to extend his life is because he was afraid of death; We've all had that similar feeling, I did as well. That I really liked, the theme that maybe robots are more like us, and that the Replicants and humans have one thing in common: human feelings.
24:00 - I just realized that if they make a 360 degree environment background of bladerunner's cityscape for the Apple Vision Pro (where u can turn & move your head around), it would be unbelievably epic!!
Well with the sequel coming out, I think it's safe to say that Deckard isn't a replicant due to him aging, unless they come up with some bs like, "Aging technology!"
Phenomenal review. I have enjoyed nearly every single retrospective you have posted. I only envy that I was born a decade before many of these movies were created, and didn't have the personal insight and experience of seeing many of these films/games at the time. Your personal perspectives on how you came about many of these films is also welcome, and I usually never bother with those aspects in other videos. Blade Runner is a technical, philosophical and film marvel. Even after more than 30 years this film reminds me so much of how I saw New York City as a child looking through the glittering cityscape to see much of the urban decay that laid underneath. Thank you for this production and please continue with your amazing work!
I think another reason Ford's son dubbed his dialogue, is that as you get older, your vocal cords also age. Harrison now doesn't quite sound like Harrison from the early 80s. You ever play that From Russia with Love video game? It's good a young looking Bond, but with old as fuck Sean Connery voicing him. It's really weird
LiamTheGreat I agree. Not only that, but they insist on using recent equipment such as $8,000 ribbon mics, Drastic EQ, Digital compressor/limiter techniques, Dynamics processors etc. They didn't have all that back then, so you'd only get the pre-dominating frequencies at the mid range mark. I was commenting something similar on a track by the Seekers 'Turn Turn Turn' where by all the instruments have this tape distortion effect, especially the bass which would have some incredible compression fluctuations when really pushed! Portishead (band) actually manufactured this wonderful technique in the track "All Mine" & have since become the masters of sound 'retro' in a digital age. However it adds so much more mystery to the film here by having all those tape defects, wow, wobble, dust, etc to everything. Including Vangelis' score. It's so unpredictable & as organic as the visual effects. I HATE how films have this dry studio voice sound now. You can hear where the gate opens & closes for the attack & release time for every bloody word spoken. It's VERY distracting & proves that all films today are manufactured & totally STERILIZED of ALL detail, nuance, human error, & vulnerability which lent so much charm & authenticity, even to an otherwise bleak world.
LiamTheGreat I hated the scenes added into the recent extended cut of "The Good The Bad & The Ugly" because not only were most of them unnecessary, but the actors voices had changed so damn much over 30+ years that it was highly distracting. I stick with the original, edited American cut.
yes the 1982 movie line up was chock FULL of great and legendary films. when you hear the list run off, its truly amazing. we havent seen such hits in any one year in quite some time.
I'm blown away by your reviews. You add an extra dimension in your perspective of the the films for the viewer to think about. You are very thorough too. Movie Reviews in print just cannot compare. 5 stars
Thank you for doing this, Oliver! I put this movie on at least annually when the rest of the family is out of the house, cranking up the Vangelis and reveling in the atmosphere. You're right about seeing something new at every viewing. Keep up the extraordinary work!
I never liked the idea of Ford being a replicant. I feel like it undermines the point of Roy's death and what he says. To me Ford being human realizes that replicants can have emotions and care about their life and death like humans, and up till that point he only saw them as mindless dogs that needed to be put down. The unicorn is a nice red herring and adds some more thought to the themes of Blade Runner but to me its nothing more then that.
Omer Khan Exactly. Being a replicant makes Deckard a slightly more interesting character, but it also takes something away from Roy's final speech. By emphasizing the Deckard question, I feel like, with all due respect to Ridley Scott, he's turned the movie into a game of "Where's Waldo?," looking for little clues that distract from Roy Batty's story, who I think is really the main character. "Tears in rain" is what makes it all work, not the unicorn.
Omer Khan In my own opinion, *only* with Deckard being a replicant is there any closure. Your comment about dogs to be put down wouldn't work, as we *know* he can't deal with killing them which is why he retired. If he were a replicant, he'd be able to come to terms with his feelings of guilt, and want to get away and live his life with Rachael like Roy wanted to live. If Rick were a replicant, then in a way, there are two replicants escaping at the end with him and Rachael high tailing it. Like i say, just my own opinion. Also, i like to imagine them having a freezer FULL of Rick Deckards. All with photos and fake memories. They thaw one out and send him for sushi whenever there's a replicant break-out. He will be all "I retired, Bryant!" each time, and perhaps not everytime he makes it. It was just an idea i had watching it once.
Omer Khan I disagree because as far as Roy is concerned, he isn't in doubt that Deckard is a human, since Deckard may have an implanted memory like Rachael and he doesn't have strength beyond a normal human, there is no way of telling, therefore, Roy's intentions aren't biased or corrupted. As for the emotions, he witnesses both Roy and Rachael making their emotional breakthroughs of dieing and being a replicant to him respectively. It is then at the end when he is aware that replicants have emotions which is why he decides to go with Rachael, and then he finds the origami by Gaff and it strikes him, could he be a replicant? anyway it is as likely one way as it is another.
I really dislike the unicorn scene, and how out-of-place it is. It's really the only aspect of the movie that tries to hold your hand toward the conclusion that Ridley endorses. Almost everything else in the movie is left to you to figure out, or for you to speculate-- the movie is free of pretty much any "in English, doc!" moments or wordy exposition. And the unicorn scene is not in the other versions of the movie (except the 92 directors cut). So, are all the articles and books that speculated on the movie over the years and decades since 1982, superseded by a director's cut released in 2007?
I've often heard theories about Deckard being Gaff's replicant. - Gaff's use of a cane suggests an injury: perhaps one that sidelined him as a Blade Runner. -Gaff may of been too great of a Blade Runner to have out of the picture, so they clone him with Tyrell Corporation to make Deckard have his memories and believe that he is Gaff (much akin to Rachel believing she is Tyrell's niece.) -Gaff is usually cold and rude to Deckard, perhaps out of jealously due to Deckard replacing him. -Deckard is never allowed to drive a police vehicle, and Gaff is the only one who drives him around (and is usually a dick about it.) The origami is also a major key in this theory: -In the scene where Bryant convinces Deckard to go after the Nexus 6 replicants, Gaff creates a origami of a chicken because he knows Deckard is afraid to take the job up, just as he would. -When discussing about visiting Rachael, Gaff creates a matchstick man with an erection because he met her before: and knows that Deckard will fancy her. (These are open to interpretation, but would help support the theory of these men being related.) The final origami is perhaps the one that can't be interpreted any other way. In the film Deckard has a recurring dream about a unicorn. At the end when he goes to escape with Rachael, Deckard notices that Gaff was in his apartment and spared Rachael's life. During their rush out to the elevator Deckard notices an origami on the ground (Gaff's calling card) and sees that it is a unicorn: meaning that Gaff knows about Deckard's dream. Gaff's final words to Deckard are albeit heartwarming, but very cryptic: "You've done a man's job." During a making of documentary he also follows up with:"But are you sure you are a man?" Keep up the wonderful work Oliver! Love your channel and look forward to seeing more of your quality content.
I actually like the original where the dove flies into the almost daylight, I felt that it showed that even in the dystopian world, there was sometimes daylight, dark hope etc...
I be freeze-framing Boy Batty at 37:32 and I dunno...Boy's left eye just look WEIRD to me. If you wanna zoom-in and go frame by frame you'll observe that his eye has a bizarre shapeshift in which his iris has become a straight line. The actor, Rutger Hauer, did that to subliminally convey the alien nature of his Replicant character. (All Hollywood actors are 'BioDigitals' who flash these subliminal shapeshifts in their eyes in the picture shows.)
blade runner blues is a song i can literally listen to forever....so melancholic,and atmospheric....listening to it in the rain will make you feel like a blade runner
Hey Oliver, I've just discovered your channel and subscribed having watched a few of your reviews. I'm finding a bit of a problem, though: having watched some of your excellent retrospectives, I find the desperate need to dig out the Blu-Rays from my collection and watch the actual films again! So now I'm off to watch the Final Cut. Keep up the good work.
+Oliver Harper You're welcome. There is just one tiny nitpick I'd make with your great review, though: Pris meeting JF Sebastian was no accident, in my eyes. Batty got JF's address from Chew and then sent Pris to befriend him. The biggest problem for me with the movie is that, due to the rearrangement of the scenes after Deckard kills Zhora, the bottle of alcohol he buys afterwards miraculously doesn't get broken while Leon is beating him and throwing him around! Otherwise it's still the beautiful movie I remember, both visually and aurally.
I cannot imagine a Blade Runner sequel without Vangelis' marvelous score, which as you can hear here, is more than just music. You can play the movie without watching it and it functions like an incredible radio play. In 5.1. sound. (For me) Now, this unicorn sequence. It reminds me of the Tom Cruise fantasy, Legend, also directed by Scott. You can see where I'm headed.....
I have seen Blade Runner countless times, from VHS, to DVD and Bluray, and all the various versions of the film itself. But until today I've never seen it on the big screen. I just came home from watching Blade Runner The Final Cut at the cinema and it was beautiful, but slow, so slow. Still love it though.
I saw Blade Runner with my friend 1982 and we expected with childlike expectation an easy cool looking Sci-Fi movie like Star trek or Star Wars. After this film we was... seized and paralyzed! Since that time Blade Runner is my favorite movie ever! Thanks Ladd Company, thank you Mr. Ridley Scott, the fantastic team and artists to realized this cinematic revelation that changed my sight for the Science Fiction film!
That was possibly the best review of a film I've seen on TH-cam so far Oliver. Absolutely superb. I love the Snatcher reference too. There's literally no stone that you left unturned. Bravo sir!
And not to forget the graphic adventure pc game of blade runner from Westwood published in '97. On a same level of immortality with the BR Movie imo. Superb reviews here.
Dear Oliver, I may have seen all your vids (or at least slept through them!), it's seldom that i enjoy any youtube channels as much as this one and suffering from insomnia, your calm voice over movies i love is just relaxing and soothing beyond asmr
My favorite version of Blade Runner is the Final Cut. And the reason I enjoy thinking that Deckard is human and Not a Replicant is because a human who feels for another being of a different kind, is much more profound than a replicant having feelings for other replicants. The same as I feel that it is more impressive to see a public advocate for finding the cure for muscular dystrophy (for example), when the person fighting for the cause does not have the affliction, but is compelled and aware of the need to find a cure for the affliction of others. A human Blade Runner who realizes the error of hunting and killing replicants is more powerful than a replicant who thinks its a human and changes it's mind, possibly due to a subconscious case of self preservation.
I have only really seen Final Cut all the way through. But in comparison to the original theatrical cut, it really is a lot different. I think the Final Cut is brilliant. And Rutger Hauer kicks ass. He brings a lot to this movie.
you've done a man's job sir. i was just putting a thing on facebook tonight (earlier on) and was gushing over the soundtrack, and how BR was a brilliant mix of audio and video. then came onto youtube to look at some clips to maybe post, and stumbled over this. BR is my fave film of all-time, my dedicated home theatre is themed around BR only, I enjoyed this video, many thanks. Have a better one...p.s. seems like 20 people are idiots !
The movie stayed with me when leaving the cinema at that rainy night in 1982 trough the reflections on the wet streets of the neonlight city. That's because the slow pace of the movie sucks you completely in the gloomy film noir. The voice over didn't struck me as odd at the time since it was also used in Apocalypse Now (1979) and in the TV series I was watching at the time Mike Hammer, Private Eye (1997-1998) but it certainly can do without. The movie with the Vangelis music is a masterpiece which is also shown in architectural design classes.
Darth Decius, from what I understand I don’t think it was improvised. I think he wrote it and actually edited it. The original monologue that he wrote was quite a bit longer.
Great review - as always! I agree with you and others 100% who love Vangelis' soundtrack(s). I always loved Vangelis' music. I actually got my first break into the music business as a synthesizer programmer back in the early 1980s, before becoming a full-time musician/composer. I instantly fell in love with and was hugely inspired by Vangelis' soundscapes and his gorgeous signature analog synthesizer textures, often combined with other keyboards (say, grand piano, Rhodes etc.) and percussion. Vangelis never was cheesy (unlike some other well known "synth guys" I shall not name). His synth sounds and effects are clearly all hand tooled, finely crafted and polished, never sounding like stock out-of-the-box sounds because they aren't. The Blade Runner score has that floating quality to it and everything fits perfectly. No ill-matching sounds, not even the saxophone during the romantic scenes in Blade Runner - which I actually like a lot. Vangelis never went for being "cool" or "trendy". Some people seem to have a problem with that. I definitely don't. I am also a huge fan of Vangelis' extensive collaboration with singer Jon Anderson. Fantastic music!
Hi Oliver, This is my first post to any of your work having recently watched almost all of the reviews over the last three weeks. This retrospective shows perfectly how much you enjoy what you do and how you have evolved the process. What I like best about your work is how similarly it resembles my own opinion on films. I'm guessing that we were born within about 5 years of each other and grew up in similar respects to movies and gaming. Having watched your Predators commentary synched with the movies I am now motivated to see what you have to say in commentary about one of my favourite movies: The Thing. I have it synched and am ready to go. I'll post a note on there after I have finished. I will also listen to the Fury Road podcast even though I have not seen it yet as I am guessing that your opinion will match my own and knowing the plot won't affect a movie like this in the slightest. If you liked it, I'll be going soon. Cheers!
Bret Higgins Hi Bret! Great to read your thoughts on my work. I would certainly recommend my ALIEN commentary series. I think you will find them entertaining and informative. Im sure you will love Fury Road!. Great cinema experience.
Roy's incept date is Jan. 8, 2016. That means he dies in early 2020. The opening scene of the film is November, 2019. It should be assumed that a little over a month goes by during the film.
I can see why Blade Runner was such an influence on future science fiction movies, especially Akira. That low booming music that plays over the start of Blade Runner, reminds me heavily of Akira.
A masterpiece and seminal movie! ! A multi- layered, deeply nuanced work.. Lecturers say this movie is studied in philosophy classes n dissertations of post-graduate students. It blew me away the first time I saw it. The genius score of vangelis just sucks you in, enthralling, mesmerising, haunting. All the performances are flawless. Never been bettered.
Thank you for highlighting the many talented individuals involved in this powerful film, from script writers, to model builders (opening scene of L.A.), the soundtrack, and many others, and of course the brilliance of Ridley Scott and acting by Rutger Hauer and the visionary book by Philip K. Dick. The rather lackluster sequel only illustrates how great this film was.
I may be one of the few that dig the voice over version best of all.I’m a fan of the old series Richard Diamond Private Detective.It was a real noir style television show, starring David Janssen, pre- fugitive fame.When watching, I’m always pulled into Richard talking over his car telephone, to Sam (Mary Tyler Moore) his answering service operator.Pretty futuristic for a ‘50’s T.V. show. Watch an episode of Richard Diamond, see if it makes a difference next time viewing Blade Runner.
I remember Ridley Scott said about the romance between Deckard and Rachael was supposed to be forced because Deckard in his own way saved Rachael from having an identity crises when she realized she wasn't real. Deckard forced himself on to her to give her an identity that she is Deckard's lover.
Get the Blade Runner Blu-ray here goo.gl/9a0UVv
Get The Blade Runner soundtrack here goo.gl/hnL5Pw
Oliver Harper What do you think about the new trailer?
It STILL blows my mind it ONLY COST even adjusting for time - 20-25Million dollars to make!?!? the 97 video game almost cost as much haha
I don't need the blu ray, I have the 5 disk special edition. I bought it new a few years ago for only £6. And it wasn't online. It was at a HMV store. Sometimes I like to think that Deckard and Rachel were the two other replicants of the original six. But that wouldn't work because if that were true, then Roy would've recognized him, unless he never met him prior to the Offworld incident.
& what did a can of coke cost in those days, 20 cents? (A bottle of coke cost 5 cents as did a phone call in early 1950s; house rent might be $30 a month, gold $36 an ounce, tho u cud not own gold as such until Nixon) - inflation old boy.
One info... Blade Runner (Final Cut) was recently re-released on 4k UHD Blu Ray.
All those moments of Rutger Hauer will be lost in time, like tears in the rain.
or mayb not prhaps . he saw things ppL wouLdnt bLiev , atakd ships on fire off tha shouLdr of Orion , he watchd c-beams gLitr in tha dark near anhausr gate , kisd MichL Pfeifr in Lady hawk tha face of Lov , pLotd against Batman Bruce Wayne Crstian BaLe and Morgan Freeman , soo many othrs during ovr through tha years , aLL those momnts wont b Lost Like tears in rain
@Jay Sha he was a good actor , but he wasted his career wth waaay tooo many b-moovies
And Syd Mead
Never
@Jay Sha check out Escape from Sobibor. One of his best
I don't think Pris found Sebastian by accident. I always thought Batty planted her there to befriend him.
That is definitely one of the many unspoken subtexts of this movie.
Much is implied, leaving it to the person seeing the movie to interpret it.
That was the reason why the tacked on the clumsy narration and "happy ending."
At least the Final Cut edition corrected those errors, along with having Joanna Cassidy, at her own suggestion, digitally put back into the movie for her death scene and Harrison Ford's son's mouth digitally inserted to match Harrison's original dialogue in Taffy's Night Club.
ya I dont think it was an accident, shes angling to get him to invite her in, its a ploy.
Very clearly it was no accident.
I always wondered why Sebastian didn't know something was up with the way she ran into the bus and broke the window.
There are no accidental honey-pot traps.
Blade Runner was set in 2019 so that was the year Roy Batty died ..... as did Rutger Hauer in real life.
Although sad it is also somewhat poetic as Rutger and Roy seem to have been intrinsically linked.
poetic fuL circL . one of Rutgr's Last moovies VaLerian , fuL of computr gnrated spciaL-fcts and boring , city of a 1000 thousands pLanets worLds has it's momnts , but is no sci-fi cLasic Like bLade-runr
I was fortunate to attend an acting and scripting workshop with Rutger in Cape Town. It was a very laid back affair. He had a lot of charisma and was hands on in transferring knowledge.
roy, are you licensed to use the word intrinsically ?
@@tobyhart8515 I hope he received your consent BEFORE being "hands on" with " transference" of knowledge
@@homebrandrules fair play, I walked into that one. It does sound a bit dodge. Let's say he was more off the cuff than hands on.
Fun fact : this film premiered on the same day as John Carpenter's The Thing. Coincidentally, both movies were critically panned at their release but both became cult classics years later
Both are two of my favorite movies (BR probably number 1 and The Thing somewhere top 5).
The summer of 1982 was absolutely amazing for the number of classics released every week. Mad Max 2, Tron, E.T., Wrath of Khan, Poltergeist…
Blade Runner is 35 years old today. From a cult favourite known from butchered theatrical releases to a bona fide classic with an anticipated sequel, this film has had quite a journey.
No shit! Seriously... its so weird how its a cultural phenomenon right now.
Watched this again recently, and it is still boring as shit......
Projekt:Kobra I don’t think Blade Runner ever “needed” a sequel, and can stand perfectly well on its own, but they did a good job. But It’s worth bearing in mind that at the time when I posted this, Blade Runner 2049 was a few months away from release , people were getting excited to see it and it turned out to be highly acclaimed and, in my opinion, an organic and respectful film that carries the themes of the original film.
My original point was that Blade Runner was ahead of its time and is more beloved and respected today than it was in 1982.
Projekt:Kobra I’m starting to get mixed feelings about this conversation.
But I do think Disney reaping the “rewards” of their decisions regarding Star Wars has serious weight to it. Best we leave it at that.
Projekt:Kobra In the sense like what started as a conversation about Blade Runner became a discourse on the wider problems with Hollywood and its continued decadence. I sure don’t want to argue over respective opinions on the Blade Runner sequel, or taste in films. Just keep things cool.
I always thought of Deckard as human. The movie makes more sense thematically because it provides the contrast between the human and replicant, and shows the blurring line between them.
But as does him being a replicant. That's the point. It doesn't matter.
I agree with you defendstrator!
Deckard had to be human. He aged. 2047.
If he was a replicant.....he was a very sorry one. Batty toys with him in the final battle.
Thats a misconception. Since the unicorn shot was shot back in 82 duriong the filming itself. So deckard was always a replicant. This is scotts version, not yours or mine.
Deckards past is meant to be looked at by him, in question. He doesnt know who the people are in all his pictures, and theres reasons why his strength level isnt that of a replicant combat model. Deckard is meant to appear as human as possible. Because of the outlaw prohibition on earth for replicants. This means that deckard could only exist on earth, by appearing entirely human, but he was smarter then the other replicants able to track them down.
The unicorn scene is apart of ridelys original cut. You are going off the studios alternate version.
Deckard IS a replicant. How can a man have a baby with a biomechanical synthetic human?
MAkes no sense, like fucking a dilhole and making a baby.
The ground work was laid, but people fail to see it. Like was deckard really a blade runner in the past? OR was his meeting with bryant and gaf, actually the first time they met?
Gaf had access to deckards filers, which shows he knew more about deckard then deckard did himself. And he hints at this again in 2049.
Considering replicants are identitified by their eyes, and gaf literally says theres something in his eyes.
And the qoute from treasure island, is a dead give away. Go back and read jim hawkins inner thoughts about gum after he says that line. And it will tell you exxactly why deckard IS a replicant.
I don't think the "love" scene between Deckard and Rachael was supposed to be romantic. It may have been written as such in the script, but I see Deckard more as taking advantage of this android who doesn't have a proper concept of love while he's a little drunk, and enforces the anti-hero persona of his character. And it's only after the rest of the events in this movie that that opportunism turns into genuine affection.
+Kevin Striker Deckard doesn't have the full range of human emotions. He's got lust and a desire for companionship and understanding but its all immature and broken. I only lend that bit of sympathy because of the similar odd ways he deals with everything else. Were his actions over the line by our standards, yes, but HIS standards which are based on artificially implanted memories of a ruined marriage which he has just found out to be false are obviously blown to pieces which should give him a degree of leniency. I also give Rachel some degree of agency as she saves his life and still comes back at the end.
Ben Williams
Just so you know, I don't think that Deckard is a Replicant. The whole thing has never held much water for me.
+Kevin Striker Agree, doesn't make much sense, Ford also was of this opinion when asked
and its best left that way, ambiguous
I think it works either way, but the original story has him as human. The ambiguities were added by the screenwriter while adapting it. Personally I really don't think there's enough evidence that he isn't human, and nor does the film go out of its way to dangle in front of the audience much suggestion that he isn't. It's a false controversy. It reminds me of the Total Recall arguments - there's no real evidence Quaid is dreaming, and too much that he isn't.
Ridley's insistence on making a perfect film set the stage for letting directors being able to have artistic freedom. The quality of the special effects (which were not computerized or cgi'ed) has never been surpassed. BR is the best "analogue" film ever made. In 1982 it was beyond mind blowing. I saw it in a theatre back then when I as 32 and it changed my life. The soundtrack is exquisite It is by far the best Scifi movie ever made. It will be interesting if BR 2 will be able compare.
William Boyle Absolutely. It is so haunting.
BR: 2049 will probably not be as good. However I always say that bad sequels generally make the originals look better because we can see what made the originals work in comparison.
this movie has no doubt influenced many artist including myself.
Good points--- as with most sequels, I am lowering my expectations for BR2... way lower. I don't think it will hold a candle to the original.
It is the most romantic sci-fi.
TO ME there is NO WAY Rick is a Replicant, that just does not work. The whole movie is the story of him becoming less cold and learning as HUMAN from a MACHINE! AND The unicorn theory in particular. Gaff makes countless figurines of various animals. Him making a Unicorn is just not a justifiable excuse. To me i took the unicorn more of a symbol that he knows Rick is hiding the Replicant, but that she is very unique, a Unicorn. Rick see's this and thinks "oh shit, Gaff is gonna be coming" and takes off in the Elevator to escape with his robo-girl.
+LemThurdy420 Ridley Scott said he was a replicant...
So what was he a C grade strength? He isn't anywhere near as fast or strong as the other replicants.
ridley scott may have wanted deckard to be a replicant for the film, but read the book... deckard is married, and pris and rachel are identical models, whicj is how he confirms rachel is a replicant (andie in the book). also, in the novel deckard acts emotion-less because people "dial" different emotional states throughout the day, based on what kind of situation they face... i'm not saying RS didn't try to make deckard an android, but the source material states he is not. he's an android bounty hunter only
So why would it be a bad thing, if Deckard would be a replicant?
Yatsura2 may the point where humans learn about being a human from androids.
I love the score to this film.. I get lost in it every time..
Yeah, it's amazing.
Classic film & Vangelis soundtrack .. Respect.!
You and me both. It is oddly seductive. Mesmerizing and relaxing. Amazing.
Greatest movie score of all time for me. Its dreamy, sensuous quality gives a very specific juxtaposition that gives the movie a unique feel. Not a conventional dystopia, but one that emphasizes warmth, humanity, beauty, the preciousness of life. It’s the most beautiful movie ever made.
One of my favorite movies of all time.
i think its one of the most special movies ever made.
and ill NEVER forget that soundtrack.
For anyone interested in the music; the lead synth used primarily throughout the movie is the yamaha CS-80. Also used prominently is the Sequential Circuits Prophet 5 and the E-mu Emulator. All these machines are worth thousands now.
Yes, but they were also worth thousands of pounds when they were new, as they were state of the art machines back then.
Synths are good but way they were mixed is insane. Soft, organic, electronic. All at once. You could recreate exact same base sound and come nowhere close to insane emotion sounds carry in OST.
They sounded amazing in the hand of a genius.
I would rather see a prequel about Roy Batty. We could get a chance to see "all those memories lost in time."
Hobo With A Shotgun
"The Hitcher" in space?
Riff Raff i didn't think this masterpiece needed a sequel. But with Denis villenueve on board as director, I'm desperate for a sequel now. Like with Ridley Scott, I love all his movies. His masterpiece Incendies is one of the best movie I've seen, which was a critical n commercial success. A haunting, disturbing piece of work.
do it for science
The Kurt Russell film Soldier apparently has links to Blade Runner, although I think it's more so called Easter eggs, with locations being shared in one particular scene.
first time i saw this i didn't know what all the fuss was about. But then after watching it again i liked it and its thoughtful nature.
It takes a couple viewings for sure. Kind of like 2001 A Space Odyssey, and especially with Blade Runner 2049. The new film has so much to take in that you can't possibly get it all in one or two viewings.
Ease into the music and look. The themes, pace, characters, all come into place.
imagine seeing it in 1982 , I did....
ShogunBean Nah, I was enchanted by the visuals the first time I saw it. I loved it for it.
'82 for me too.
Rest in peace Rutger Hauer.
Blade Runner and Alien are my top two favourite movies of all time. Your retro review brilliant. Thank you.
@Oliver Harper: "All those moments will be lost in time like tears in rain. Time to die" ... Goodbye Roy/Rutger ... RIP ... and thank you for creating one of the most memorable monologues in the history of cinema ... this was the hook that made me fall in love with the movie Bladerunner ... (my other favorite line from the movie: "Chew, if only you could see what I've seen with your eyes") ... When I watch Roy, I am reminded of Kirk's eulogy for Mr.Spock, in ST2: The Wrath of Khan, where he says "Of all the souls I have encountered in my travels, his was the most human." I feel this way about Roy. Thank you for the excellent analysis and video ...
I get the impression that although Hannibal and Sebastian were close associates of Eldon Tyrell, they were not official employees of the monolithic, impregnable looking Tyrell Corp. (a city sized Replicant factory) and were more likely consultants and early start up partners screwed out of the Rplicant patents held by the super rich Eldon Tyrell (Hannibal got by with his small Replicant eye business, making synthetic eyes for hospitals, while the more screwed over Sebastian became an eccentric recluse - easier for Batty's crew to get to, after failing to directly storm the Tyrell pyramids).
TedShatner10 yep! But Hannibal not so much! I don't think he helped create them but was really good with the eyes, so he became what he was in the movie!
Hannibal Chew actually says to Roy that he designed his eyes.
I got the impression that they were independent contractors who specialize in particular sub-systems or organs (eyes, ears, nervous system, skin, etc.), but as a result of the complexity of the Nexus line, developed a strong personal relationship with Tyrell as consultants. I'm even willing to bet that most of their work goes into designing the organs for fake animals, like the ones you see elsewhere in the movie (Zhora's snake, those ostriches, etc.)
TedShatner10 you’re absolutely right. All the outtakes are on you tube with a voice over describing Choo and Sebastian’s relationship with Tyrell.
@@myopenmind527 Could you please link the video you are referring to?
@@alchemelixor5508 apologies for the delay. Here are 49 videos. There’s a lot of overlap but some rare footage and interviews too.
th-cam.com/play/PL2RnHjughp9ejGWlX46-ujT9CqsDqr9Mb.html
I always liked the blue sky as Batty's dove flew away. It suggested to me the symbolism of a soul flying into a better place, where the sun shone.
I agree.
Does a replicant have a soul?
I said the same thing before I saw your post. I absolutely agree. For a movie that has great symbolism, accept the fact that you stumbled upon a great one.
I agree (& that's an excellent & elegant way of putting it) i seen the movie as a 12 yr old kid & Loved every part about it!! (Even Harrison's voice over's in the original film) though many not agree with that.. but I thought it added to Retro feel of the old film noir of detective movies from the 50's & 60's! Despite it being set in future which I luv about the film!! (But I don't think many ppl picked up that aspect of the flim) & they set out to make all those changes the way they did. Either way it stands the test of time as Absoulute Master piece in mind!!
That's pretty much what the whole film is about.
Cityspeak also has Korean (Hangul) in it. The very first words Gaff says to Deckard are Korean. He says: "come here". I would know, I'm Korean :)
oh my god this movie looks like 2013 and its 1982. just look at those buildings!!!
also why do i see so much terminator in the action scenes of this film?
2013 Wished it looks like this film.
Syd mead concept artist is responsible
It looks way better because it uses actual miniatures instead of cgi. Same reaso why br2049 was cut above anything else, arguably ever.
You've done a man's job, sir.
Oh Oliver, you bring so much happiness and enjoyment to people all around the world with your wonderful homage-reviews. I am truly happy that I found your channel. Best from Israel
HD Freedom from oppression Solidarity!
Israel has a history of war crimes
Palestine is to world peace like Greg Brady is to black people. Fuck Palestine.
The most beautiful narrative film ever
Explain, bandwagoner
good point. But I hate it when people like the op just make silly "bandwagon" comments and don't back it up. Ive actually asked people the sa,e question before and they say "uuuuh .....you know.... cause it is" which leads me to believe that people seem to like it cause that's the cool thing to do. Personally I think that with every viewing it seems to get a little better, but first time I watched it was just disappointing, some of the dialogue was weird, the thing with roy and the googly eyes. and it changes pace really weirdly, fromslowly trudging for 3/4 of the movie all of a sudden it becomes a super weird cat and mouse chase as roy goes crazy and then all of a sudden saves Harrison fords life and seems to return to sense. Even if he did return to normal, Why did he save his life.? I did love the tears in rain part though. and where the hell did he get that dove?
Why does everything need an explanation...?. To quote Rutger Hauer, Blade Runner is...
Brilliant job as always Oliver. Don't forget the underrated Dark City was also heavily influenced by BR.
I really liked Dark City. Can't understand why more people don't like it.
I own the soundtrack on vinyl!
It's so bosstastic!
lucky! i love the soundtrack,instantly one of my favorite sci-fi soundtracks ever
Same, I managed to get the limited edition for £30 from someone that didn't really know what It was lol
Undoubtedly one of the greatest sci fi films ever made. The visual style of Ridley Scott, and his brother Tony (The Hunger), is beautiful and impeccable. Excellent retropespective!
Aside from some of original dialogue by Hampton which sounds so stilted and fake.
Like Copland, whose dialogue is even more stilted and fake.
Blade runner is my all time favorite movie! I saw this movie as a child and was blown away by it. Seen it many times and new editions and still leaves me in awe! I became i HUGE Vangelis fan and love all his music!
This is quite possibly one of my favourite movies of all time. A true masterpiece - 10/10.
Can't wait for the sequel and many critics said that it's as good as the original. 😆
This has and will always remain my favorite movie of Ridley Scott. The amount of thematic layers within this film are immense. They aren't forceful or bloated. They just make sense. This movie also made me appreciate Noir and Cyberpunk as a genre a lot more. But more importantly, it is one of those films where when you rewatch it(especially, the various cuts), you gleam so much more from the movie each time.
The soundtrack of this film is amazing. I often say that music should serve as a complement to the story. And this soundtrack succeeds in portraying the great mood and narrative within the film. I wholeheartedly agree this guy needs to get more work via the Superhero genre(maybe a Question movie?).
Finally, the visuals to Bladerunner still to this day are gorgeous. You know when a film is timeless when its effects still look realistic and beleivable. The use of model and the various film techniques showcase the utter brilliance of the production crew. I cannot even say this about Star Wars(some of my favorite films), for some of those models are showing their age. Even if diehard fans(I am one of them) refuse to admit it.
Overall, I sincerely thank you for doing such a wonderful retrospective. Blade Runner is such a significant film. Aside from giving us a real thought provoking story, it changed the way people viewed science fiction. Other franchises, like Ghost in the Shell, Deus Ex; have all taken inspiration from this film. It illuminated the way for noir and dark science fiction movies. As a result, you have my utmost respect.
Great review !!! Blade Runner one of my favorite movies ... I remember seeing this movie in the theater with my dad
3 first Ridley Scott movies are one of the best movies of all time and definitely my favourites.
Absolutely fell in love with Blade Runner from an early age. Gripping score, unlike anything I ever listened to before, and even now, 33+ years after its release. I once lived in LA and whenever I'd nap, the Esper Edition score would play in the background. Try it sometime, you'll remember what it was like sleeping like a baby. I even went so far as to acquire all the various editions of the score: Regular release, Esper Edition, 25th anniversary complete, limited 29th anniversary, and of course the 3 disc 2007 release which followed the Final Cut. I am needless to say a huge fan of this stunning cinematic masterpiece.
I was 16 when I saw this film at the theater, to this day it possesses my favorite cinematography in addition to Vangelis amazing musical score.
"This is Ridley Scott at his best."
Couldn't agree more, Oliver.
one of my top 5 favorite films!
pretty much unmatched in visuals, soundtrack and atmosphere
brilliant movie, highly recommend it
It's been awhile since I saw the movie, but I was under the impression that Pris was planted by Roy deliberately to meet Sebastion and it wasn't an accident. I'll have to watch it again.
Thanks for another great review!
Excellent retrospective...... However you miss the point completely about the sex scene between Deckard and Rachel. Deckard questions his humanity and identity... thus wanting power and control over "replicants" he asserts force on Rachel to show how real humans should be in control. Watch his reactions to Rachel later in the movie and you will see he does indeed become softer and more understanding. Hence supporting the theory confirmed by ridley Scott that he finally comes to grips with the possibility of him being a replicant as well.
+Jason Troy
I think Deckard is a little rough on Rachel because he, as a replicant himself, is built with the purpose of being a hunter of replicants, so its natural that he may have used a little excessive force when dealing with Rachel (who is a replicant) who is trying to run away from him (she's conflicted with being attracted to him yet feels she should avoid intimacy with someone who kills her kind for a living)...
There is a readjustment of roles between the two of them so he's probably doing things in a fumbling way initially until he learns to become more gentle with her later on in the movie ..
Exactly! Well said 88feji. Great synopsis and viewpoint.
Jason Troy
:)
Agreed !
J. T. We have to remember that Rachel being a replicant may have had no physical contact with men. Maybe she has no memories of a sexual encounter. Seems like she was sheltered by Tyrell. It shows In her tentative moves, hesitation n fear (.running away from deckard) when deckard was trying to kiss her. This can be misconstrued as lack of chemistry.
The number one negative review is the slow pace of the movie. I got the feeling that they slowed it down in an attempt to add to the depressing and dark reality of the future. Giving you time to sink in all the fine details in every scene. After all its the scenery that people remember the most about this movie. That went on to inspire alot of futurists down the road. Anyways I'm glad this kind of movie was made even if it was unintentional.
Nah, I think it's impossible to excuse a slow pace unless if something interesting is going on. In this movie, harrison ford does very little detecting, the villain is off screen for ages and very little else is happening.
The slow pace is perfect, it allows you to just lose yourself in that world, both visually and aureally, to take in all the details and imagine yourself living in that universe, it's sublime
I think pacing depends on the person, I personally like this films pacing as it allows you to immerse yourself in the world of blade runner
I took your advice and ordered today the 25th anniversary boxset sound track . already own the film and this is one of my favourite movies .so happy to find your channel and have truly learned lots of stuff.
Ah Snatcher, I love how it's basically a hotchpotch of Blade Runner + Terminator + Metal Gear + Bubblegum Crisis , and even uses Sting from Dune as a character
9 minutes in, and I can already say, amazing review, Oliver, as always.
Another thing to mention: I've at one point kept rewinding the scene where Roy dies and we hear the music continuing on; Never have I ever cried so hard at such a scene.
But once again I can already tell you're hitting the nail *perfectly*. I've had similar thoughts like you when I first saw it, but now thanks to u, I'm gonna give 'Blade Runner' another watch, now with a new perspective on it. Thank u, Oliver. ;D
THIS VIDEO DESERVES A MILLION VIEWS!!! SPREAD THE WORD!
Ever since I've saw that scene (this was before I read more about the film and its themes), I'vs always felt the reason why Roy wanted to extend his life is because he was afraid of death; We've all had that similar feeling, I did as well. That I really liked, the theme that maybe robots are more like us, and that the Replicants and humans have one thing in common: human feelings.
I can't lie this has to be one of my favorite films of all time!
24:00 - I just realized that if they make a 360 degree environment background of bladerunner's cityscape for the Apple Vision Pro (where u can turn & move your head around), it would be unbelievably epic!!
Well with the sequel coming out, I think it's safe to say that Deckard isn't a replicant due to him aging, unless they come up with some bs like, "Aging technology!"
LIKE TERMINATOR GENISYS AGING
Older model.
Which doesn't have 4 years life span.
Phenomenal review. I have enjoyed nearly every single retrospective you have posted. I only envy that I was born a decade before many of these movies were created, and didn't have the personal insight and experience of seeing many of these films/games at the time. Your personal perspectives on how you came about many of these films is also welcome, and I usually never bother with those aspects in other videos.
Blade Runner is a technical, philosophical and film marvel. Even after more than 30 years this film reminds me so much of how I saw New York City as a child looking through the glittering cityscape to see much of the urban decay that laid underneath. Thank you for this production and please continue with your amazing work!
I think another reason Ford's son dubbed his dialogue, is that as you get older, your vocal cords also age. Harrison now doesn't quite sound like Harrison from the early 80s. You ever play that From Russia with Love video game? It's good a young looking Bond, but with old as fuck Sean Connery voicing him. It's really weird
LiamTheGreat I agree. Not only that, but they insist on using recent equipment such as $8,000 ribbon mics, Drastic EQ, Digital compressor/limiter techniques, Dynamics processors etc. They didn't have all that back then, so you'd only get the pre-dominating frequencies at the mid range mark.
I was commenting something similar on a track by the Seekers 'Turn Turn Turn' where by all the instruments have this tape distortion effect, especially the bass which would have some incredible compression fluctuations when really pushed! Portishead (band) actually manufactured this wonderful technique in the track "All Mine" & have since become the masters of sound 'retro' in a digital age.
However it adds so much more mystery to the film here by having all those tape defects, wow, wobble, dust, etc to everything. Including Vangelis' score. It's so unpredictable & as organic as the visual effects.
I HATE how films have this dry studio voice sound now. You can hear where the gate opens & closes for the attack & release time for every bloody word spoken. It's VERY distracting & proves that all films today are manufactured & totally STERILIZED of ALL detail, nuance, human error, & vulnerability which lent so much charm & authenticity, even to an otherwise bleak world.
LiamTheGreat I hated the scenes added into the recent extended cut of "The Good The Bad & The Ugly" because not only were most of them unnecessary, but the actors voices had changed so damn much over 30+ years that it was highly distracting. I stick with the original, edited American cut.
+Derke73
Similar thing is the Alien:Isolation DLC Crew Expendable.
The Nostromo crew sans Ian Holm voicing their 1979 counterparts...
My understanding was that Ford's son only modeled the lips moving. The dialog didn't match Harrison's lips in that scene. This fixed it.
@@KutWrite that's true and I dont understand the other comments. It's clearly harrison Ford's voice from the early 1980s
yes the 1982 movie line up was chock FULL of great and legendary films. when you hear the list run off, its truly amazing. we havent seen such hits in any one year in quite some time.
Watching this before 2049. Excellent retrospective
I'm blown away by your reviews. You add an extra dimension in your perspective of the the films for the viewer to think about. You are very thorough too. Movie Reviews in print just cannot compare. 5 stars
I like the happy ending. When I first watched Blade Runner a long time ago I thought Deckard and Rachel went to the Offworld Colony.
Sounds interesting
I get your thinking. A lot of people actually liked the voice overs too, kind of gave it more of a film noir feeling.
Thank you for doing this, Oliver! I put this movie on at least annually when the rest of the family is out of the house, cranking up the Vangelis and reveling in the atmosphere. You're right about seeing something new at every viewing. Keep up the extraordinary work!
I never liked the idea of Ford being a replicant. I feel like it undermines the point of Roy's death and what he says. To me Ford being human realizes that replicants can have emotions and care about their life and death like humans, and up till that point he only saw them as mindless dogs that needed to be put down. The unicorn is a nice red herring and adds some more thought to the themes of Blade Runner but to me its nothing more then that.
Omer Khan Exactly. Being a replicant makes Deckard a slightly more interesting character, but it also takes something away from Roy's final speech. By emphasizing the Deckard question, I feel like, with all due respect to Ridley Scott, he's turned the movie into a game of "Where's Waldo?," looking for little clues that distract from Roy Batty's story, who I think is really the main character. "Tears in rain" is what makes it all work, not the unicorn.
Omer Khan In my own opinion, *only* with Deckard being a replicant is there any closure. Your comment about dogs to be put down wouldn't work, as we *know* he can't deal with killing them which is why he retired. If he were a replicant, he'd be able to come to terms with his feelings of guilt, and want to get away and live his life with Rachael like Roy wanted to live. If Rick were a replicant, then in a way, there are two replicants escaping at the end with him and Rachael high tailing it. Like i say, just my own opinion. Also, i like to imagine them having a freezer FULL of Rick Deckards. All with photos and fake memories. They thaw one out and send him for sushi whenever there's a replicant break-out. He will be all "I retired, Bryant!" each time, and perhaps not everytime he makes it. It was just an idea i had watching it once.
I disagree, there is still closure regardless of whether he is or isnt a replicant. But the great thing about this film is you can have it both ways.
Omer Khan I disagree because as far as Roy is concerned, he isn't in doubt that Deckard is a human, since Deckard may have an implanted memory like Rachael and he doesn't have strength beyond a normal human, there is no way of telling, therefore, Roy's intentions aren't biased or corrupted. As for the emotions, he witnesses both Roy and Rachael making their emotional breakthroughs of dieing and being a replicant to him respectively. It is then at the end when he is aware that replicants have emotions which is why he decides to go with Rachael, and then he finds the origami by Gaff and it strikes him, could he be a replicant? anyway it is as likely one way as it is another.
I really dislike the unicorn scene, and how out-of-place it is. It's really the only aspect of the movie that tries to hold your hand toward the conclusion that Ridley endorses. Almost everything else in the movie is left to you to figure out, or for you to speculate-- the movie is free of pretty much any "in English, doc!" moments or wordy exposition.
And the unicorn scene is not in the other versions of the movie (except the 92 directors cut). So, are all the articles and books that speculated on the movie over the years and decades since 1982, superseded by a director's cut released in 2007?
I've often heard theories about Deckard being Gaff's replicant.
- Gaff's use of a cane suggests an injury: perhaps one that sidelined him as a Blade Runner.
-Gaff may of been too great of a Blade Runner to have out of the picture, so they clone him with Tyrell Corporation to make Deckard have his memories and believe that he is Gaff (much akin to Rachel believing she is Tyrell's niece.)
-Gaff is usually cold and rude to Deckard, perhaps out of jealously due to Deckard replacing him.
-Deckard is never allowed to drive a police vehicle, and Gaff is the only one who drives him around (and is usually a dick about it.)
The origami is also a major key in this theory:
-In the scene where Bryant convinces Deckard to go after the Nexus 6 replicants, Gaff creates a origami of a chicken because he knows Deckard is afraid to take the job up, just as he would.
-When discussing about visiting Rachael, Gaff creates a matchstick man with an erection because he met her before: and knows that Deckard will fancy her.
(These are open to interpretation, but would help support the theory of these men being related.)
The final origami is perhaps the one that can't be interpreted any other way. In the film Deckard has a recurring dream about a unicorn. At the end when he goes to escape with Rachael, Deckard notices that Gaff was in his apartment and spared Rachael's life. During their rush out to the elevator Deckard notices an origami on the ground (Gaff's calling card) and sees that it is a unicorn: meaning that Gaff knows about Deckard's dream.
Gaff's final words to Deckard are albeit heartwarming, but very cryptic:
"You've done a man's job."
During a making of documentary he also follows up with:"But are you sure you are a man?"
Keep up the wonderful work Oliver! Love your channel and look forward to seeing more of your quality content.
I actually like the original where the dove flies into the almost daylight, I felt that it showed that even in the dystopian world, there was sometimes daylight, dark hope etc...
I be freeze-framing Boy Batty at 37:32 and I dunno...Boy's left eye just look WEIRD to me. If you wanna zoom-in and go frame by frame you'll observe that his eye has a bizarre shapeshift in which his iris has become a straight line. The actor, Rutger Hauer, did that to subliminally convey the alien nature of his Replicant character. (All Hollywood actors are 'BioDigitals' who flash these subliminal shapeshifts in their eyes in the picture shows.)
You forgot that the movie The Fifth Element was Bruce Willis was also inspired by this movie.
blade runner blues is a song i can literally listen to forever....so melancholic,and atmospheric....listening to it in the rain will make you feel like a blade runner
Hey Oliver, I've just discovered your channel and subscribed having watched a few of your reviews. I'm finding a bit of a problem, though: having watched some of your excellent retrospectives, I find the desperate need to dig out the Blu-Rays from my collection and watch the actual films again! So now I'm off to watch the Final Cut. Keep up the good work.
+Shaun Lucas Excellent stuff Shaun, always great to hear i've encourage viewers to re-watch the films i review.
+Oliver Harper You're welcome. There is just one tiny nitpick I'd make with your great review, though: Pris meeting JF Sebastian was no accident, in my eyes. Batty got JF's address from Chew and then sent Pris to befriend him. The biggest problem for me with the movie is that, due to the rearrangement of the scenes after Deckard kills Zhora, the bottle of alcohol he buys afterwards miraculously doesn't get broken while Leon is beating him and throwing him around! Otherwise it's still the beautiful movie I remember, both visually and aurally.
+Shaun Lucas totally agree - Pris meeting JF was definitely no accident - it was obviously part of Roy Batty's plan to eventually meet Tyrell
+Oliver Harper make a review about Gattaca please! it´s a great film.
+Shaun Lucas The final cut is definitely the best version in my opinion, it's just amazing
I cannot imagine a Blade Runner sequel without Vangelis' marvelous score, which as you can hear here, is more than just music. You can play the movie without watching it and it functions like an incredible radio play. In 5.1. sound. (For me) Now, this unicorn sequence. It reminds me of the Tom Cruise fantasy, Legend, also directed by Scott. You can see where I'm headed.....
This was, if not the best review of Blade Runner. It deserves to come with the boxset It's so good.
My God the list of great movies in 1982! Saw them all as a fresh faced 17 year old!!!! What a great time the 80's were.
I have seen Blade Runner countless times, from VHS, to DVD and Bluray, and all the various versions of the film itself. But until today I've never seen it on the big screen. I just came home from watching Blade Runner The Final Cut at the cinema and it was beautiful, but slow, so slow. Still love it though.
Your reviews are top shelf. Thank you. Blade Runner - I agree with your opinions. A great film with some minor faults.
Don't know why, but I got chills down my spine during intro. Nice review!
You have outdone yourself, sir. This review was everything I had hoped it would be, and more. Thanks!
I saw Blade Runner with my friend 1982 and we expected with childlike expectation an easy cool looking Sci-Fi movie like Star trek or Star Wars. After this film we was... seized and paralyzed! Since that time Blade Runner is my favorite movie ever! Thanks Ladd Company, thank you Mr. Ridley Scott, the fantastic team and artists to realized this cinematic revelation that changed my sight for the Science Fiction film!
This is the godfather of all Cyberpunk films , as always had a very difficult birth and showing
Watched this for the first time a few weeks ago on my OLED TV it looked amazing and the soundtrack
Fantastic job! I love this movie. I actually had to do a paper in college comparing this movie with the I works of the philosopher Descartes
NeverSaySandwich1 I hope Descartes wrote cool stories about robots hookers and dream unicorns.
That was possibly the best review of a film I've seen on TH-cam so far Oliver. Absolutely superb. I love the Snatcher reference too. There's literally no stone that you left unturned. Bravo sir!
Thank You, Oliver, for all the great information about one of the best and one my favorite films ever made. Just subscribed to your channel. :)
Thanks buddy!
And not to forget the graphic adventure pc game of blade runner from Westwood published in '97. On a same level of immortality with the BR Movie imo. Superb reviews here.
Тhis moviе is nоw аvаilable to watсh herе => twitter.com/5bd3df8a79d2adead/status/795842553937469440 Blаdе Runnеr 1982 Retroоoosрeсtivе Reviеw
Dear Oliver, I may have seen all your vids (or at least slept through them!), it's seldom that i enjoy any youtube channels as much as this one and suffering from insomnia, your calm voice over movies i love is just relaxing and soothing beyond asmr
Blade Runner is my favorite movie of all time. I secretly wish that I could live in that world sometimes.
It is a true masterpiece in every meaning of the word. It is not a flawless film but it is a perfect film. Tops my list of all time favorites.
Joe Turkel/Tyrel is such an awesome actor he is also the creepy bartender in the shinning :D
My favorite version of Blade Runner is the Final Cut. And the reason I enjoy thinking that Deckard is human and Not a Replicant is because a human who feels for another being of a different kind, is much more profound than a replicant having feelings for other replicants. The same as I feel that it is more impressive to see a public advocate for finding the cure for muscular dystrophy (for example), when the person fighting for the cause does not have the affliction, but is compelled and aware of the need to find a cure for the affliction of others.
A human Blade Runner who realizes the error of hunting and killing replicants is more powerful than a replicant who thinks its a human and changes it's mind, possibly due to a subconscious case of self preservation.
I have only really seen Final Cut all the way through. But in comparison to the original theatrical cut, it really is a lot different.
I think the Final Cut is brilliant. And Rutger Hauer kicks ass. He brings a lot to this movie.
kakashi101able Yeah, check it out. Hope you like it as much as I do.
"Holden" has top notch on screen charisma and should get more praise. Thanks. this film is the best.RIP Phillip.RIP Rutger.
you've done a man's job sir. i was just putting a thing on facebook tonight (earlier on) and was gushing over the soundtrack, and how BR was a brilliant mix of audio and video. then came onto youtube to look at some clips to maybe post, and stumbled over this. BR is my fave film of all-time, my dedicated home theatre is themed around BR only, I enjoyed this video, many thanks. Have a better one...p.s. seems like 20 people are idiots !
An Absolutte Incredible Review. Great Work
Now, Am I the only here that is beggin for a Strange Days review?
Of the Sci-Fi genre this Blade Runner Movie is by far my most favorite. For me it was just so thought provoking since its release to current time.
The movie stayed with me when leaving the cinema at that rainy night in 1982 trough the reflections on the wet streets of the neonlight city. That's because the slow pace of the movie sucks you completely in the gloomy film noir. The voice over didn't struck me as odd at the time since it was also used in Apocalypse Now (1979) and in the TV series I was watching at the time Mike Hammer, Private Eye (1997-1998) but it certainly can do without. The movie with the Vangelis music is a masterpiece which is also shown in architectural design classes.
Must have been amazing to watch it in a cinema back in the day. You're certainly lucky to have experienced that!
Thank you so much for making this. I love the movie, and bought the first soundtrack on vinyl. I will look for the 25th anniv box set. Thanks again!
"Like tears in rain" That speech was improvised.
Darth Decius, from what I understand I don’t think it was improvised. I think he wrote it and actually edited it. The original monologue that he wrote was quite a bit longer.
He was in a meeting.
Then read it.
So they tried that version
That scene was so well acted. Rutger Hauer made Roy Batty a sympathetic antagonist.
Great review - as always! I agree with you and others 100% who love Vangelis' soundtrack(s). I always loved Vangelis' music. I actually got my first break into the music business as a synthesizer programmer back in the early 1980s, before becoming a full-time musician/composer. I instantly fell in love with and was hugely inspired by Vangelis' soundscapes and his gorgeous signature analog synthesizer textures, often combined with other keyboards (say, grand piano, Rhodes etc.) and percussion. Vangelis never was cheesy (unlike some other well known "synth guys" I shall not name). His synth sounds and effects are clearly all hand tooled, finely crafted and polished, never sounding like stock out-of-the-box sounds because they aren't. The Blade Runner score has that floating quality to it and everything fits perfectly. No ill-matching sounds, not even the saxophone during the romantic scenes in Blade Runner - which I actually like a lot. Vangelis never went for being "cool" or "trendy". Some people seem to have a problem with that. I definitely don't. I am also a huge fan of Vangelis' extensive collaboration with singer Jon Anderson. Fantastic music!
Hi Oliver, This is my first post to any of your work having recently watched almost all of the reviews over the last three weeks.
This retrospective shows perfectly how much you enjoy what you do and how you have evolved the process. What I like best about your work is how similarly it resembles my own opinion on films. I'm guessing that we were born within about 5 years of each other and grew up in similar respects to movies and gaming.
Having watched your Predators commentary synched with the movies I am now motivated to see what you have to say in commentary about one of my favourite movies: The Thing. I have it synched and am ready to go. I'll post a note on there after I have finished.
I will also listen to the Fury Road podcast even though I have not seen it yet as I am guessing that your opinion will match my own and knowing the plot won't affect a movie like this in the slightest. If you liked it, I'll be going soon.
Cheers!
Bret Higgins Hi Bret! Great to read your thoughts on my work. I would certainly recommend my ALIEN commentary series. I think you will find them entertaining and informative. Im sure you will love Fury Road!. Great cinema experience.
One of the best movie ever made accompanied by the most brilliant music score.
I guess Roy Batty is activated this year
One of my favorite movies ever!
Another fantastic review of one of my top three favorite movies of all time, keep up the amazing work Oliver
2019: Roy Batty dies.
2019: Rutger Hauer passes away.
You just blew my mind!
There's a certain poetic beauty to that,
everyone's gonna die sometime,
it's more important how he *lived*
Roy's incept date is Jan. 8, 2016. That means he dies in early 2020. The opening scene of the film is November, 2019. It should be assumed that a little over a month goes by during the film.
I can see why Blade Runner was such an influence on future science fiction movies, especially Akira.
That low booming music that plays over the start of Blade Runner, reminds me heavily of Akira.
Brilliant work as always, Oliver.
A masterpiece and seminal movie! ! A multi- layered, deeply nuanced work.. Lecturers say this movie is studied in philosophy classes n dissertations of post-graduate students. It blew me away the first time I saw it. The genius score of vangelis just sucks you in, enthralling, mesmerising, haunting. All the performances are flawless. Never been bettered.
Best soundtrack ever,Vangelis and Ennio Morriconne (speĺling),are the greatest.
R.I.P. Ennio
Also wendy carlos,she did the shining, a clockwork orange, and tron.
Thank you for highlighting the many talented individuals involved in this powerful film, from script writers, to model builders (opening scene of L.A.), the soundtrack, and many others, and of course the brilliance of Ridley Scott and acting by Rutger Hauer and the visionary book by Philip K. Dick. The rather lackluster sequel only illustrates how great this film was.
I loved 2049 so much. I think it lived up to this movie's legacy.
I may be one of the few that dig the voice over version best of all.I’m a fan of the old series Richard Diamond Private Detective.It was a real noir style television show, starring David Janssen, pre- fugitive fame.When watching, I’m always pulled into Richard talking over his car telephone, to Sam (Mary Tyler Moore) his answering service operator.Pretty futuristic for a ‘50’s T.V. show. Watch an episode of Richard Diamond, see if it makes a difference next time viewing Blade Runner.
I remember Ridley Scott said about the romance between Deckard and Rachael was supposed to be forced because Deckard in his own way saved Rachael from having an identity crises when she realized she wasn't real. Deckard forced himself on to her to give her an identity that she is Deckard's lover.