Blade Runner – film Essay Example

mechanical sounds convey the idea of ongoing work and a constantly busy environment. The audience becomes curious to discover if this place is truly never stopping. As they have seen various scenery, they can now associate sounds with pictures, leading to frustration and a desire to know what they will see first to address their questions. The electronic sounds become faster and the single drumbeats become more noticeable, creating a feeling of explosions or potentially guns and violence.

The quiet and soothing sounds in the background create a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. The sound of tinkling, like rain falling, introduces us to the scene, followed by powerful drumbeats. Despite the dark and desolate setting, the music remains calm and peaceful. The somewhat romantic melody suggests love and tranquility, leaving the audience to question how such fragility can exist in such a dark and emotionless place. The initial setting is Los Angeles 2019, depicted from a high-angle shot that shows the entire city. The scene appears bleak and menacing, seemingly endless. A row of colossal chimneys stretches across the picture, releasing fire into the atmosphere. These chimneys are the most prominent aspect of the setting, prompting the audience to contemplate their purpose. Perhaps Ridley Scott is implying that this is our future, where pollution reaches such extreme levels that visibility becomes severely limited. It serves as a glimpse into what may happen to our world if we continue down an industrialized path, where fire pollutes our air and we find ourselves surrounded by a dark and polluted environment.Moving gradually, we transition into a point of view perspective overlooking the city, simulating the experience of being aboard a

spaceship or high in the sky on a plane. The camera captures fleeting flying cars zooming past while maintaining a slow pace. Soon after, we transition abruptly to an intense close-up of an eye.

The eye depicted in the artwork captures the entire setting featuring flames and dark buildings, sparking curiosity about its owner. It raises questions regarding whether the eye is overseeing the surroundings or situated elsewhere. The eye's connection to the film is also a mystery. As the most ordinary life form seen thus far, its presence in such a gloomy environment puzzles us. By featuring the eye twice, its importance is emphasized, urging us to ascertain whether it belongs to a replicant or a human. Considering that eyes are often considered as the "windows of the soul," we wonder what emotions are conveyed through this eye.

Is the reflection of fire and darkness in the eye implying a dark and miserable nature? Or is it suggesting that the being is void of emotions and only reflects what is seen externally, without revealing its true soul? The unusual shape of the Tyrell building resembles the pyramids from ancient Egypt, which once symbolized immense power and grandeur. This architectural choice highlights the significance and authority that the Tyrell building holds within the city.

The effect of transitioning from the eye to the building provides a better understanding of the immense size of the Tyrell building. This transition prompts us to speculate about the owner of the eye, adding tension as we are left with unanswered questions. Each time we return to the building, we are presented with a closer view, indicating a forward movement in the story

and preventing the monotonous experience of a continuously approaching camera. Therefore, by cutting to the eye, the scene becomes more captivating for viewers and builds suspense.

The camera focuses on a large building and slowly zooms in on a small section. Instead of entering the building, the scene cuts to a medium shot of a blue room with high key lighting, where a man's silhouette can be seen smoking. The lighting creates clear shadows, reminiscent of old detective films. This suggests that we may be in a police station and raises questions about why we are there. The film noir elements hint that this sci-fi film will be different and provide new insights. Similar to the way our eyes are drawn to details, we are curious about the identity of the man and what will happen to him.

Is the eye that we see belong to him? What is he looking at? Is he waiting for the spaceship or plane that the camera was in? This initial scene introduces the audience to the futuristic world of Los Angeles in 2019. The use of diegetic sounds indicates that technology has already advanced before we even see the setting. One of the first sights in this world is a flying car, a new invention for this generation. However, viewers also learn about the problems of this advanced world, as artificial light is the only source of illumination.

The entire city is engulfed in darkness and is extremely polluted. The only source of natural light is the fire, but it only adds to the pollution due to burning waste. As the camera approaches the building, its massive size becomes increasingly apparent.

The camera shots in this scene continuously zoom in and pan upward, revealing more of the Tyrell building. The second scene I have selected begins with Deckard ascending the stairs to the toy maker's apartment and concludes right before he opens the door.

Deckard is present because he is still on the lookout for two additional replicants. This alone generates tension as we are curious to discover if and how he will locate them, and if he will succeed at all. I selected this scene because although it progresses slowly, the tension is palpable as it keeps the audience eagerly anticipating each subsequent action. While ascending the stairs, Deckard strives to remain concealed and unnervingly quiet. He tightly grips his gun, prepared for any unwelcome surprises. His behavior is extremely clandestine, with caution guiding every step he takes. Thus, his secretive demeanor contributes to an atmosphere of intense suspense.

In a quiet scene, when the character is also quiet, we expect an interruption or a loud noise to disrupt the silence. As a result, we anxiously watch, readying ourselves for fear or shock. Initially, the setting is enigmatic, concealed, and filled with tension. Despite there being no other individuals nearby, the presence of numerous dark corners and alleyways created by the lighting gives us a sense that anyone could be observing. The camera tilts upward, revealing a wire mesh that traps Deckard inside the building.

The wire resembles prison bars, indicating that escape is unlikely for the person being referred to. Above the wire, a billboard displays a Japanese woman singing, symbolizing freedom and the desired location for this individual. In the process of ascending the stairs, the

building's cracks and holes allow searchlights from outside to penetrate through. This parallels the earlier extreme close-up of the eye and signifies that the searchlights are in search of replicants.

The theme of constant surveillance permeates this film, rendering no one safe in this world. Characters are under constant scrutiny, resembling the watchful eye of Big Brother, eliminating any sense of solitude. The staircase design deviates from the traditional circular shape, instead opting for squares. This may symbolize potential progress and transformations that lie ahead. The camera angles and shots in this particular scene induce tension by deliberately obscuring the perspective being portrayed. At times, it seems as if the audience itself, or perhaps a replicant, is observing Deckard from above while remaining concealed.

By initiating this action, the text raises immediate queries regarding the identity of another individual. The notion of an undisclosed person is evoked by the impactful close-up shot of an eye at the film's outset. Is this eye affiliated with someone who may be concealing their presence? Our inquisitiveness grows as we endure frustration due to our lack of knowledge. As the main character ascends the square stairs, the scene alternates between him and Pris inside the apartment. This technique prevents monotony during his staircase journey while showcasing Pris's realization that there is somebody present within the structure, compelling her to take measures to conceal herself.

During Deckard's ascent up the stairs, the scene is characterized by only two distinct colors. The dominant hue is red, which saturates the entire setting through the use of red lighting, creating an ominous and menacing atmosphere. This choice of color intensifies the tension as Deckard finds

himself alone, and leaves us anxious and fearful for his well-being within the apartment. Contrastingly, bright white searchlights pierce through the darkness of the red, introducing a burst of new color.

The combination of white and red in this scene creates a juxtaposition of light and freedom with a darker connotation. This contrast represents the idea of heaven and hell, leaving the audience uncertain about what may happen next. The lighting adds to the tension by providing no clear indication of the outcome. Additionally, the distant and computerised sounds emphasize a sense of solitude as the character's footsteps on the stairs are amplified to create an echoing effect.

The scene has a creepy and eerie atmosphere, enhanced by the music. As we gaze at the Chinese lady, she sings hauntingly slow and extended notes, which reverberate throughout the building. Soon, the typical heavy rain adds to the ambience, its sound resonating against the building while some droplets seep through the walls. As the character ascends the stairs, we hear computer-generated sounds that are part of the scene. These tinkling noises are delicate and soothing, giving us a glimmer of hope that something positive might occur due to these pleasant sounds.

The highlighted scene exhibits the last replicant pursuing Deckard onto the rooftop of the toy makers building. It differs from the preceding scene, which had a slower tempo. Unlike the prior scenes, this one is dynamic and full of action, resulting in a distinct type of tension. The camera remains in constant motion throughout, intensifying the scene. While the initial two scenes were leisurely and slowly developed tension, this particular scene is rapid and brimming with action.

In this

fast-paced scene, the tension is already present, heightened by the setting. The building's interior appears dilapidated, with numerous broken windows and a precarious structure. Searchlights illuminate each room, creating a sense of urgency. Surprisingly, the exterior of the building, although worn, gives the illusion of luxury, contrasting with its true state.

There is an abundance of detailed features on the building, which further conveys its expensive and superior nature. As Deckard climbs up, a large blue circle juts out from the building, continuing the notion of constant surveillance. From the initial eye we cut to, to the searchlights, and now even during Deckard's escape, he remains under scrutiny. This suggests that one is never truly alone in this city, wherever they may be. Thus, this theme permeates the entire film. On the roof, there are fans resembling those seen on the ceiling in the first scene.

The fans in the room and outside on a tall building are cleaning the air because of the severe smog problem in Los Angeles. In this alternate world, LA has been almost completely destroyed and lacks its usual modernity and glamour. The city is dark and constantly rainy, devoid of any sparkle. Scott may be suggesting that this dystopian version of LA could become a reality. Earlier in the film, Roy visits his creator, Tyrell.

In the film, Roy represents Jesus and Tyrell represents God. Roy is compared to the Prodigal Son and is described as amazing and well-made. As the film progresses, there is increasing evidence to support this allegorical comparison. On the roof, Roy holds a dove which ironically symbolizes peace, the only real living animal seen throughout the film.

This may suggest a change in Roy or foreshadow future events.

Roy releases the dove, similar to Noah's action on his ark, hoping it will find a better place to live. This act could be interpreted as Roy seeking refuge from his miserable environment. Additionally, Roy pushes a nail through his hand, reminiscent of Jesus' crucifixion. Just as Jesus made a sacrifice dying on the cross, Roy's action may also signify a sacrifice for something greater.

The presence of Roy as a depiction of Jesus in the scene introduces tension because Jesus's destiny is widely known: crucifixion. This raises questions about whether Roy will face a comparable fate, and if so, how it will occur. As the movie progresses, we observe an impactful transformation in Roy's personality that reveals his regret and atonement for his wrongdoings. Similar to Jesus, who achieved purity after being cleansed, Roy also experiences a similar change. The connection between these two men is further emphasized in a previous scene where different colored lights represent good and evil. In this instance, we witness a shift in Roy's character that reflects this dual nature as well.

The protagonist is drenched in blood, both from combat and his encounter with the last replicant. Throughout this scene, he adopts a sarcastic and mocking tone, aware of his power over the other character. Their dynamic resembles a cat-and-mouse game, where the cat delights in tormenting the mouse – similar to how the protagonist enjoys teasing his counterpart. He then proceeds to engage in poetic conversation about his past experiences as a slave. This revelation adds depth to the protagonist's character.

By displaying humility and lowering his defenses, he reveals

a kinder side that washes away his previous evil towards Deckard and others. Seeking forgiveness and yearning to eliminate all his sins, Roy's newfound nature generates tension as it deviates from our anticipated film progression. We ponder the repercussions for Roy now that he has exhibited human emotions, considering that the replicants were implanted with memories of others but Roy recalls moments from his time as a slave, showcasing further alterations within him.

The dripping water from Roy's head is a symbol of cleansing, representing the act of baptism where water is placed on the forehead or one is fully immersed in water. This ritual is meant to cleanse one's sins and provide a fresh start. Similarly, the rain dripping from Roy's hair and down his head signifies the washing away of all the blood, leaving him looking pure and untainted. Prior to his death, Roy displays an unexpected display of emotion by shedding tears, which goes against his programmed nature that prohibits emotions. Upon Pris's demise, Roy mourns for her.

From this point, we can observe a shift in Roy's emotions and sentiments; he is growing more receptive, heralding the onset of a profound transformation. The contrast between his menacing appearance, marked by blood on his face, and his exceedingly pale and innocent countenance resembles the disparity between heaven and hell, angel and devil. This suggests that perhaps God has granted him forgiveness and that he regrets his past actions. As he draws closer to death, the climax of the tension is reached. Finally, we learn the manner in which he will meet his demise, causing us to descend from the

peak of suspense.

The scene where Roy saves Deckard's life by effortlessly lifting him off the building is particularly powerful. It captivates the audience as it showcases Roy's immense strength and control over Deckard. We expect a significant turning point in the story, like Deckard's death or a dramatic conclusion to the film. However, what makes this moment ironic is that it is not the end; there is still more to uncover. This unexpected twist creates tension and leaves us both surprised and intrigued about why the narrative continues unexpectedly. Importantly, this scene does not heavily rely on music to heighten its impact.

The constant sound of heavy rain dominates the film and adds a dramatic effect to fight scenes and chases. The rain splashing everywhere intensifies the violence portrayed on screen. Moreover, it symbolizes the perpetually bad weather and pollution that have plagued the city in the future. In the second scene, as Deckard tries to escape the building, the voice of the Japanese woman can still be heard. This indicates his proximity to freedom and the outside world.

The tone becomes long and eccentric, contributing to the already tense atmosphere. When both men are on the roof, there is a distant sound of tubular or church type bells, possibly indicating that Deckard finds sanctuary on the roof, similar to a church where one is safe and untouched. These bells can symbolize this sanctuary or even rejoice. Since we believe that God knows all, he must know Roy's fate, and the presence of church bells could mean they are rejoicing a change or reform.

After Roy saves Deckard, the music stops, which typically signifies something horrible happening to

either the hero or the villain in horror or sci-fi films. However, Ridley Scott defies our expectations as Roy descends to Deckard's level and speaks in poetry. Accompanying these changes in Roy, gentle sounds emerge in the background. These sounds are bright and happy, reflecting Roy's transformation and indicating that these changes are positive.

Using various techniques such as sound, lighting, camera angles, and setting, Ridley Scott effectively builds tension in three key scenes. The transition in the main character from devil to angel is underscored by these sounds. Sound can be particularly influential in creating a false sense of anticipation, leaving the audience on edge as they eagerly await the outcome that Scott deliberately withholds.

The audience is brought back to a calmer level and shocked by the twist in the tale. Lighting is effectively used in all three scenes to create a sense of isolation, being trapped, and being watched. In the apartment scene, searchlights from outside filter through the walls in thin lines, evoking feelings of imprisonment and hopelessness. This visually represents Deckard's current situation, where he feels there is no escape. Camera angles are strategically used to provide the optimal perspective, whether it's showcasing the Tyrell building or the square stairs or emphasizing the potential height from which Deckard could have fallen.

The Tyrell building exhibits power, creating depth and tension. It houses powerful elements and individuals. When Deckard was in danger of falling, Roy possessed the power to rescue him from the seemingly endless abyss. This evokes fear and excitement in the audience, making their hearts race. Every scene prompts us to question even the smallest details, which are subsequently addressed in

the following parts of the scene. Ridley Scott skillfully directs these three tension-filled scenes, employing various media techniques.