Film Review || Blade Runner (1982)

fig 1.

Regarding the idea of the hero's journey, it was first created from the study of ancient myths that resonated between cultures of the world, and was best known initially for its use by John Lucas in the original Star Wars (1977) which has been hailed ever since with numerous entries of the same structure, albeit mixed up a bit. Blade Runner is a more successful show, combining simple storytelling elements with stunning production design to submerge us into a deep and compelling world. 

fig 2.

Plot utilises elements to the point of mystery; to compel minds to imagine areas for themselves. This is especially important for expanded universes that may have a lot to them, but also have a limited screen time of about 2 hours or so. Others would opt in for sequels in order to appease a fanbase, which would also presumably appeal to executives at Hollywood due to predicted financial gains from a series with interest. Principally we know that plot needs to be straightforward and thematic to succeed with the wider audiences, whose public interests have specific needs. 

fig 3.

We follow Rick Deckard who is a 'blade runner', someone who retires, or as we know it, kill, robots known as 'replicants'. He is tired of his past and wants to retire himself, that is, not kill himself, but to quit his job and live a normal life. This his notion of a real life, the 'Ordinary World' stage of the plot. This quickly cycles into the call to adventure when he is summoned to the police station by a guy name of Gaff, who is a massively successful blade runner, initiating the 'call to adventure. This goes to show the existence of archetypes related to the hero's journey in Blade Runner.

Figures
fig 1. Scott, R. (1982). Blade Runner. [poster]
fig 2. Lucas, G. (1977). Star Wars. [poster]
fig 3. Scott, R. (1982). Blade Runner. [film still]