Blade Runner as The Post-Apocalyptic World
Our first core text in this elective is Ridley Scott's Blade Runner, a film made in 1982. Blade Runner is set in the city of Los Angeles in 2019, inhabited by humans and genetically engineered beings called replicants, created by the mega-corp 'Tyrell Corporation'. These beings are utilised for menial labour deemed dangerous for humans, and the film encompasses their developing realisation of the nature of their own existence. We will be examining this text as an example of a contemporary work of science fiction, considering how it utilises and challenges the conventions of the genre to convey ideas about our world. Introduction to Cyberpunk and Tech Noir Blade Runner (and Neuromancer) both fit into the sub-genre of 'cyberpunk', a post modern stream of Science Fiction showcasing conflict between AI and megacorporations, featuring the experiences of fringe-dwelling loners as they interact with the new world. Use the below links to familiarise yourself with the conventions of this aspect of Science Fiction before we commence our close examination of the film. There is also a great overview video on the Core Text: Neuromancer page. Task One:
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Film Analysis
On initial viewing of the film, we will be focusing on the following areas:
Use the video on the left, as well as the links below it as a starting point to frame your own analysis. Task Two:
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NOTE: this analysis will also form an aspect of your HSC study notes, so ensure they are your best!
Genre Considerations & Critical Reading
It is important to have an understanding of the sub-genre present within the film in order to enhance your understanding of how science fiction is used and altered to convey the composer's message to his audience. Scott uses elements of romance, film-noir and the hard-boiled detective in his film, and the reading provided will provide some information about the latter two! Task Three:
Task Four:
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Bringing It Together!
Time to measure your notes against the requirements of the syllabus! Ensure that you submit the completed response for teacher feedback. Task Five:
"How have the conventions of science fiction been used to represent the values and perspectives of the late 20th Century in Blade Runner?" |