Weekend Movie – “Blade Runner: The Final Cut”

Comparing my notes after watching this edit to the Director’s Cut, I see that the changes are distinctly there, but not dramatic enough to warrant another review, as almost all that I said the first time still applies this time. (I’m sure I’ll still review the theatrical cut at some point.) Quick rundown of the changes: adjustments and rearrangements that reduce the ambiguity in Deckard (leaning towards Scott’s interpretation rather than that shared by Ford and the writers), and also improve the general picture, sound, and visual effects. Net result: higher effects score, lower emotional response score (for undermining that wonderful ambiguity) and the same total score, at least in my mind. How about yours?

5 replies on “Weekend Movie – “Blade Runner: The Final Cut””

    • Re: Effects

      Did they actually redo the f/x, as in the Special Edition?

      In most cases, they just cleaned up the blending of effects with the live action, but there’s at least one case where they added an effect (putting an actress’ face over that of her stunt double.)

  1. Am I a freak?
    Just because I really liked Ford’s original narration? I know it was completely half-assed in execution, with Ford given no real direction and Scott, IIRC, not even told it was being added in, but I think Ford’s flat, uninflected reading gives it a distinctly noir feel that really made the movie for me.

    • Re: Am I a freak?

      Just because I really liked Ford’s original narration? I know it was completely half-assed in execution, with Ford given no real direction and Scott, IIRC, not even told it was being added in, but I think Ford’s flat, uninflected reading gives it a distinctly noir feel that really made the movie for me.

      When I watch and review the theatrical cut, I’ll let you know. I have yet to see any version which leaves that narration intact.

    • Re: Am I a freak?

      Just because I really liked Ford’s original narration? I know it was completely half-assed in execution, with Ford given no real direction and Scott, IIRC, not even told it was being added in, but I think Ford’s flat, uninflected reading gives it a distinctly noir feel that really made the movie for me.

      I have a friend who really likes the narration because of the noir aspect. Based on my experience I would guess you’re in the minority, but I don’t think it’s a freakishly small minority.

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