The original Blade Runner film starring Harrison Ford was released in 1982. Contrary to popular belief, it was not a success, and did not receive universal praise from critics. At the time, Sheila Benson of the Los Angeles Times referred to the film as Blade Crawler, due to the film’s lethargic, tedious pace. The film likewise performed poorly at the box office, initially being seen as a commercial failure.

Anyone having watched the film will know that Sheila was not being unfair. Blade Runner, although an extraordinary visual feast for the eyes, is certainly slow paced. Scenery shots, visually appealing as they are, drag on for seconds longer than is needed, and director Ridley Scott seemed happy with having narrative events unfold between the extended scenery shots. Almost as if the actual story were an inconvenience he was forced to include. [Read more…]