What is it with Ridley Scott? He doesn’t seem to be able to leave well enough alone. First he decides that what the world needs is an Alien prequel/sequel/spin-off with his upcoming Prometheus, in 3D no less.
Now he’s apparently come to the conclusion that what the world needs is a sequel/prequel to to his classic 1982 sci-fi masterpiece Blade Runner. Yes, you read that right. Mr. Scott will reportedly be directing a new installment of Blade Runner.
As it was when news of Prometheus first broke, it’s not clear if this new film will be a sequel or a prequel to the 1982 film that was loosely based on Philip K. Dick’s novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? (answer: they do) Also not clear at the moment is if the new film will, in any way, feature Harrison Ford. My guess is it probably will, if only in a cameo.
Truth be told I find the idea of a Blade Runner sequel/prequel far less appetizing than a sequel/prequel to Alien. After all, James Cameron did a pretty great job with Aliens, which showed the franchise had some life in it. Plus, they ended up making a few more sequels which were less appealing. Still, they made them.
Blade Runner, on the other hand, has stood the test of time on its own. It’s evolved from a rather unsuccessful commercial debut into one of the most revered sci-fi classics of all time. Plus, it has never had a sequel, which also serves to add to its power and mystique.
We don’t know Scott’s real motivation for making a new Blade Runner. Perhaps he really feels, as an artist, there’s a pressing need for a new, updated version of the story? He also might feel that the only proper way to tell that story is in 3D. I don’t know.
What I do know is that Scott has apparently realized he’s devoid of new ideas and now intents to revisit all his old films to try and recapture some of his former glory. That’s very unfortunate. What’s next, a sequel to 1492: Conquest of Paradise?
Let’s hope not.
