The Art and Beauty of Blade Runner

(nappertime.com)

42 points | by cocacola1 4 hours ago

2 comments

  • ilamont 2 hours ago
    This came up about a month ago when someone posted a link celebrating the title cards in Blade Runner. I responded then the same way I will respond now: it’s not just the amazing visuals, it’s also the amazing auditory experience, an additional creative dimension to transport the audience into a dystopian future.

    The audio consists of two parts: the wonderful minimalist score by Vangelis, and sound effects that include distant booms, twinkling computer notes, dripping rain, strange languages, the whoosh of futuristic vehicles, even small details such as the crosswalk warning. Along with the set design, photography, special effects, acting, and other visual elements, the audio effectively immerses viewers into this incredible world and story.

    Keep in mind that a typical viewer entering the local cineplex in 1982 to watch Blade Runner might have just stepped out of a Chevy Nova with an 8-track cassette player loaded with Juice Newton and Kool & The Gang. The visuals, the score, the sound effects, and the story would have been completely novel, and totally mind-blowing.

    • alchemism 7 minutes ago
      The highlight of my summer was Blade Runner Live At the Acropolis. The movie was shown in the ancient theater with a live orchestra performing Vangelis.

      They may have a global tour of it in some places this fall.

    • WalterGR 1 hour ago
      > someone posted a link celebrating the title cards in Blade Runner.

      https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=49189287

    • WalterBright 1 hour ago
      I stepped in to watch it in 1982. Didn't like it much. But rewatching it over the years, it grew on me.
      • dtnm 1 hour ago
        The re-cuts are definitely an improvement on the original theatrical release. It's a matter of taste, but for me Director's Cut is the better.
  • esafak 1 hour ago
    It's amazing that Blade Runner looks as good as anything that has come since. And sounds way better.
    • cocacola1 44 minutes ago
      My local Regal is playing it on September 12th. Can’t wait to see it again in theaters.