Movie:
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the profetic sci-fi flick Blade Runner, Warner Bros finally released the ultimate version of the movie. We took a long look at the 2-disc Special Edition.

The influence of Blade Runner on movies in general and sci-fi specifically shouldn't be underestimated. Based on the novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick, it tells the story of Deckard, a police detective tasked with the job to track and kill synthetic humans, called Replicants.

The Replicants are used by humanity to do their dirty and boring jobs, and are implanted with fake memories and emotions. However, after some time, they start developing their own identity, exactly the reason why their lives are limited to four years.

For some of them, that precaution is not enough. A few Replicants suddenly understand their situation and want to prevent their death, resulting in their escape, and the taking of desperate measures to prolong their life. It's Deckard's job to retire them before they hurt human beings.
 
Sound and Vision:
The movie was clearly restored meticulously by restoration producer Charles de Lauzirika, together with Warner Bros. and director Ridley Scott to make it into the true Final Cut. Immediately apparent, compared to previous editions, is the lack of dust, scratches or other image defects. The result is a extremely clean and sharp image that looks new and fresh, with fantastic detail (e.g. during the 'eye'-scene), realistic colors and perfect clarity and contrast. Triple-A material!

Especially the sequences where the Los Angeles of the future is shown in all its glory are impressive to say the least. Except for a few seconds here and there, you never get the impression that this movie is almost as old as I am.

We can be as positive about the sound as we are about the images. The remastered soundtrack uses the surround speakers as it should, with some impressive effects (e.g. passing ships) and a perfectly integrated soundtrack. Vangelis' music has never moved or seduced me before, but this time I turned up the volume a little bit more to really enjoy every bit of it.

Overall, the detail and work that has gone into the restoration of the movie (not only technically, but also concerning the content) is staggering, making it a must-have to show off your HD-DVD drive.
 
Extras:
Disc 1:

Introduction by director Ridley Scott

3 Commentary tracks by Ridley Scott, the screenwriters and producers and a last one with futurist Syd Mead, production designers, the art director and special effects supervisors.

Every one of them is worth listening to, and each gives an insight into a different aspect of this classic.

Disc 2: Dangerous Days: Making Blade Runner

Created by Charles de Lauzirika, the DVD producer of Scott, this 214 minute long documentary tells the story of the making of the movie. Expect interviews of about 80 crew members and cast, including Harrison Ford and Rutger Hauer. Every aspect, from idea to execution, is treated, with information and never before seen material I didn't know about and which really shows why this movie is so unique. A must see!
 
Conclusion:
The conclusion is simple. This edition of Blade Runner is a must have for every film fanatic. A fantastic and classic sci-fi story, presented like never before with unbelievable sound and image, featuring a second disc that rivals any extra every created. Buy it! Now!