Harrison Ford's Take on Blade Runner: Why He Prefers the Later Versions
Harrison Ford, renowned for his iconic role in Blade Runner, has shared his insights on the various versions of the film. He has a distinct preference for the versions that exclude the voiceover.
The Original Vision
Ford revealed that the original script included a narration, but he felt it was not fitting for the film. Collaborating with the director and the team, he worked to weave the narration into the scenes themselves.
Studio Interference
However, the studio was dissatisfied with the final product. They insisted on adding a voiceover and modifying the ending to make the film more accessible to general audiences. This decision was met with criticism, and the film underperformed upon its initial release.
The Director's Cut and Final Cut
Years later, a Director's Cut was released, which removed the voiceover and left the ending more ambiguous. This version was better received. Fifteen years after that, Ridley Scott released the Final Cut, over which he had full creative control. Ford appreciates these later versions as they align more closely with his original vision for the film.
Reflections on the Sequel
Ford also mentioned that he enjoyed making the sequel, Blade Runner 2049, even more than the original. He found the filming conditions to be significantly better, with fewer rain and night shoots.
The Ongoing Debate
The debate among fans about which version of Blade Runner is the best continues. Ford's preference for the later versions highlights his commitment to the film's original vision and serves as a reminder of how studio interference can impact a film's success.