Blade Runner

By Cameron Pesek

Inspired by the classic 1968 sci-fi novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep,” Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner” captures all the haunting beauty of an imagined future cityscape. Despite being limited by the special effects technology of the 80s, Scott manages to transform small-scale models into a living, immersive universe. However, the movie is more than just a collection of pretty pictures; the plot and environment pose big questions about the nature of humanity.

The story of “Blade Runner” is that of bounty hunter Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) and his struggle to retire several escaped androids, or, as the characters in the movie refer to them, “replicants.” The hunt takes Deckard across a futuristic Los Angeles, coming face-to-face with androids and the Tyrell corporation that makes them. Replicants don’t die easily, and their struggle against Deckard is less a fight to kill him and more a fight to live. Even with the replicants seeming crazed and emotionally distant, the audience ultimately begins to empathize with the replicants being pursued.

Neither the title nor poster of “Blade Runner” truly do the film justice in expressing its content or the magnitude of the ideas within. They do, however, effectively portray the aesthetic seen in the movie. The world is meticulously sculpted, no object lacking imagined purpose. Each camera angle adds effect to the movie. Although dated, the film is still just as visually striking today as it was in 1982. However, trailers depict the film not as an art piece, but rather an action thriller.

Despite being marketed as an action movie, “Blade Runner” is lacking in any meaningful choreography. The three minute trailer features basically every intense moment in the film. The longest conflict mostly consists of a drawn-out chase scene, with little contact between the characters involved. One may be able to watch “Blade Runner” for its action, but would ultimately be left with an unfulfilling experience.

The movie pulls the viewer into its world of beautiful cinematography and real moral questions: What is a human? At what point does technology deserve rights? Why does biological life matter any more than synthetic life? The questions are abstract yet increasingly relevant as modern technology advances closer to the future the movie depicts, “Blade Runner” has withstood the test of time as a masterpiece of science fiction cinematography. Any fan of science fiction, or movies in general, should do themselves the favor of watching “Blade Runner.”

5/5

(Scroll down to watch the trailer)

Goonies

By Maria Solorzano

Eighties nostalgia is defined by Steven Spielberg’s “The Goonies.” This notable film takes place in the port city of Astoria, Oregon, a simple and boring town with amazing secrets hidden within. The combination of misfit pre-teens and an old pirate ship creates the perfect contrast for this classic.

Mikey (Sean Astin) and his older brother Brand (Josh Brolin) have the task of saving their childhood home. Mikey and his unique friends happen upon a treasure map that leads to riches beyond what anyone in their small town could ever imagine.

Action fills every part of their adventure as Mikey seeks to keep his memories attached to the town and the people they had been with for years. This creates an interesting string of events that engages the viewer constantly.

Contrasting the serious nature of an Italian mob with lighthearted comedy, the movie gains a timeless sense of childhood that anyone can appreciate. The film is a reminder that an adult never fully grows out of their imagination.

The movie, although entertaining, does have some rough patches such as the inclusion of some unnecessary characters.

The characters are satirical but incredibly stereotypical. All of Mickey’s friends are “diversified” by adding cliche elements to their personalities. Examples are the “bad boy” and the “techy Asian.”

Much of the movie is humorous, but only if you have the ability to comprehend it from the point of view of a thirteen-year-old boy. Luckily, many do.

Overall, the creative layout of events overpowers the shallow characters, granting the movie a unique storyline.

3.5/5