donald (07/11/82)
Bladerunner ***non-spoiler*** Overall rating: 3 out of 4 stars Brief plot synopsis: In the early 21st century genetically engineered androids (called replicants) are used as slaves in outworld colonies. Replicants are short-lived supermen and are illegal on Earth because of a previous bloody mutiny. Four replicants escape and land on Earth, and Ford's job is to hunt them down. A good science-fiction film, unconcerned with the blaster bolts, whizzing spaceships and 10 thrills per minute genre. Superb visual effects (as opposed to special effects), well-crafted vision of harsh and grungy future Los Angeles, with a good sense of atmosphere. Slightly reminiscent of "Chinatown"; if you liked the latter you may like "Bladerunner" (actually, I hated "Chinatown"). Interesting, though not engrossing plot. Certainly not predictable. World-view fairly consistent, no gross violations of physical laws as in STII, no silly lapses in credibility. Everything hangs together. Minor flaws include Ford's wooden narration and the movie's slow pace (some might say "plodding"). I think the negative reviews have come mostly from people used to SF movies of the Star Wars ilk. If you're not the type that needs to see an exploding spaceship every 2 minutes to retain interest, go see Bladrunner. Don Chan