Watching Blade Runner brings up a complicated decision for a first-time viewer, as there are multiple versions of the film. The variations of the film have important differences, each representing a different chapter of the film's history. Now considered one of the greatest examples of science fiction and neo-noir filmmaking, Blade Runner is a cult classic of cinema with a rocky road to its esteem.
Originally considered to be a commercial failure that received mixed reception from viewers and critics, the 1982 film was a spectacle of drama and studio interference that unfortunately overshadowed the great creativity and ideas on set for some time. Ridley Scott, now considered one of the most important directors of all time, was still early in his career during Blade Runner's production.
Ridley Scott Clashed With The Studio Over Blade Runner
Competing visions were the main issue that led to Blade Runner needing multiple cuts. On set, Ridley Scott often clashed with his cast and crew, and his strict, detailed style of directing caused the shoot to go over budget and time. Ridley Scott was fired from the film after shooting wrapped, then brought back on shortly after for the editing process, but never given complete artistic control. The studio held creative control for the film's original release, deciding that the film was too confusing, based on the opinions of a focus group, and needed voice-over to explain it, as well as changing the ending to be more positive.
The idea of voice-over was a central point of conflict for the original release. Harrison Ford hated the idea of narration and voiceover, and fans have noted that he slacked or purposefully sabotaged his performance, hoping they wouldn't use it. Producers Bud Yorkin and Jerry Perenchio wanted the voice-over to be simply expository dialogue that explained what was happening in the film, while Ridley Scott was fine with voice-over only if it was Deckard musing philosophically. As a result, voice-over of all types was removed in future film cuts.
How Many Blade Runner Cuts Are There?
In total, there are three definitive cuts of Blade Runner. The theatrical release was sundered by studio interference, with Ridley Scott being fired from the film after production ended. An original version of the film, made by Ridley Scott, was discovered in 1989 and accidentally played in cinemas. The version quickly gained critical and fan acclaim, causing Warner Bros. to propose releasing it as a director's cut. Ridley Scott agreed that he could make a few more changes but wasn't given the proper time to make them. The Director's Cut was released in 1992, but Ridley Scott still didn't consider the final version. It wasn't until the Final Cut, on the film's 25-year anniversary, that Ridley Scott returned to the franchise to put together the best version.
