Film Analysis: Blade Runner

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Blade Runner is a science fiction film noir, or neo-noir, that was made in 1982. It was directed by Ridley Scott, who is also known for Alien and Gladiator. Blade Runner is praised by critics saying that it is “one of the best science fictions films ever made.” Blade Runner is the face of neo-noir movies because it depicts a ”retrofitted” future while having a structure of a 1960s Hollywood crime drama. Science fictions films are movies that depict science-based phenomena such as robots, spacecraft, and alien worlds. Blade Runner does a substantial job of expressing a futuristic world. The antagonists are called “replicants,” which are androids that have more strength and agility than humans. Most of the imagery that is in Blade Runner consists …show more content…

Blade Runner also shares themes with other science fiction films. Blade Runner shows the consequences of technology on the environment and society, such as showing one part of an area that glows with lights …show more content…

Blade Runner is what most critics describe as a “neo-noir,” which has the plot structure of a normal film noir, but the setting is primarily cyberpunk. Rick Deckard’s personality can be described as hard boiled. For example, in the first scene we see him; two police officers are attempting to arrest him. Deckard’s response is sarcastically asking if he can finish eating the meal he just ordered. The female lead played by Sean Young, Rachael, also has similar traits to a femme fatale character. Rachael is not afraid to become dangerous. When Deckard gets attacked by Leon, Rachael uses Deckard’s gun to shoot and kill Leon. Several motifs that are associated with film noirs are mostly visual. Blade Runner takes place in an urban setting, has scenes associated with rain, and the main character wears a long trench coat. Another film noir characteristic that is seen in Blade Runner is the low-key lighting. Low-key lighting is used in the scene where Bryant informs Deckard of the replicants and the task at hand. The lighting used in that scene makes it seem like the room is only illuminated by one blue light, and the deep shadows only compliment that

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