Even when covered in industrial flames and advertisements, the world of Blade Runner is still cold and dark. Contained in this technologically advanced version of 2049 Los Angeles, exists humanoid robots with emotional capacity named “replicants”, and replicant hunters given the title of “blade runner”.
The film follows Rick Deckard, a retired, but skillful blade runner. When a new group of replicants cause havoc, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) gives him the task of retiring (killing) them. During the film, Deckard also meets Rachel, a female replicant he cannot view as any less than human. Through both the eyes of the hunter Deckard and the hunted Roy Batty, the leader of the replicant group, the film explores themes and subject matter of life and death, humanity and morality, freedom and slavery, capitalism, artificial intelligence, and more.
In an advanced world, the film comments on present day society, whether all of these connections were intentional or not. Although some scenes are concerningly reminiscent of their time, stylized visuals play on top of a masterful soundtrack throughout the film. Detailed set design, beautiful cinematography, and radiant lighting help to immerse the viewer in a fictional yet familiar world. A unique experience is created that asks: what does it mean to be human? By ending with one of the most captivating and profound monologues in film history, the film is able to leave you with more questions about the human condition than you had before. There is no “good guy” in Blade Runner, there are just attempts at humanity.
THE NORTH STAR 