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DVD Forum => DVD Releases and Reviews => Region 1 => Topic started by: classicman on May 27, 2006 at 01:13 PM

Title: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: classicman on May 27, 2006 at 01:13 PM
from thedigitalbits:


(http://www.thedigitalbits.com/articles/miscgfx2/bladerunnerartdrewstruzan.jpg)


"So... you remember how we said that for every piece of good DVD news this week, there was a piece of bad news? Well... how 'bout we end the week on a REALLY great note, sans the dark could? You may have heard the word from Daily Variety this morning. Yes... Ridley Scott's Blade Runner is FINALLY, officially, coming to DVD. It's going to be coming to HD-DVD. And it's going to be coming to Blu-ray Disc as well. This is real... it's happening... and it's going to be very, very cool.

"First a bit of background on the reason for the title's delay. Warner had been planning a 2-disc special edition of the film early last year... but suddenly realized that their rights to the title were about to lapse. However, the studio ponied up the big bucks to get back what is arguably one of their primo Cadillac catalog titles (dare you to say that three times fast). The ownership situation now resolved, Warner has set in motion plans to really do something special with the film. You might recall back in January when I asked them about the film at their 2006 catalog press event, they hinted that things were looking good for a 2007 release. Privately, we were told that there were BIG things in the works, but were also told that if we leaked too much about the project, we might end up like Fredo Corleone (or WORSE, that the project itself could be complicated). Needless to say, though we've been dying to talk about this for months now (and we get about two e-mails a day asking about the title), we've kept largely silent on the subject. Now that the project is finally out in the open, however, we can finally say a few things. Keep in mind that the major portion of the release is still over a year away. But here's the basic plan...

"This coming September, there will be a new limited DVD release (HD-DVD & Blu-ray Disc are also planned) of the restored 1992 Director's Cut (you know... the one that isn't really a director's cut). This will be available for just four months. We believe this is basically the 2-disc release that Warner had originally planned to bow LAST year.

"Then next year, just in time for the film's 25th anniversary, Ridley Scott's ultimate Blade Runner: The Final Cut will hit theaters for a limited run. This will be a REAL director's cut, with restored scenes and more - all the stuff that Ridley's always wanted to do with the film but hasn't really been given the chance to do before. That will be followed later in the year by an Ultimate Blade Runner DVD release. You can expect a multi-disc box set (again, likely with a simultaneous HD-DVD and Blu-ray Disc release) that will contain at least four different versions of the film... ALL in full anamorphic widescreen, we might add. You'll get the film's original U.S. theatrical cut, you'll get the expanded international theatrical cut, you'll get the 1992 Director's Cut and you'll get the new Final Cut as well. Now... we realize at this point, you may have questions. Keep in mind, there's a TON of additional material that's going to be included in this set that hasn't been announced and can't be talked about yet - all-new material that you've never seen before. The set is pretty early in the planning and production stage, so it's way too early to talk details, but trust us... some very cool stuff is in the works. These extras will likely be different from the September '06 release, so if you buy both you'll at least be getting your money's worth.

"Imagine that... anamorphic widescreen AND real value in a DVD release! Hey... are we being punked?

"You veteran Bits readers will also be thrilled to learn that longtime Ridley Scott DVD producer Charles de Lauzirika and his team are involved in project, and have already been working on the set for a while now. Lauzirika, as you may know, was the producer responsible for Fox's 9-disc, massively comprehensive Alien Quadrilogy box set, as well as the multi-disc special editions of Scott's Gladiator (from DreamWorks), Black Hawk Down (from Sony) and Kingdom of Heaven (recently available from Fox), among others. You should also know that Lauzirika and his team are big fans of Blade Runner themselves. Rest assured that they know what you guys all want to see on this release, and they're working very hard to make it as good as it can be. Trust us when we say that this project is in EXACTLY the right hands."


 8)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: hemisphere on May 27, 2006 at 01:50 PM
good news they are releasing the film in DVD.. all i heard these past few months is news re HDDVD.

thank for posting.

 8)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on May 28, 2006 at 12:17 AM
 Just the two-disc set is cool, then four-disc next year? Wow! Its like God has touched me on the forehead and my wish was granted.  :o

And there's the 25th Anniversary screening on theatres?! Paging IMAX to screen this Ridley Scott classic. Thanks for the info, your honor.

 :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: baby on May 28, 2006 at 12:46 AM
I sold my 1997 dvd releases 3 or 4 years ago.  I missed that DVD. :'(  It's in snap case pa.  Good thing it will be released in SE.  I hope it will be in ultra restoration process. :)  I will defenitely get the 4 dicer. 
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on May 28, 2006 at 10:40 AM
I love this film, countless sci-fi movies failed to imitate it, the visuals of Ridley Scott. L.A. looks so futuristic and has cool atmosphere.

Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: jas on May 28, 2006 at 11:37 AM
This is great news! Looking forwards to view the Final Cut version. :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: chinoh151 on May 28, 2006 at 04:07 PM
Heard of the film, but never saw it, but with all the good comments I am hearing, this sounds COOL.

 ;)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: ThePatriot on May 28, 2006 at 04:33 PM
finally! thanks for the info brod classicman... :) :) :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: baby on May 28, 2006 at 05:43 PM
I remmember watching the dir cut in sm megamall when it was re issued in the 90's.  Forgot the year.  sa premier cinema nila. :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: talisman30 on May 28, 2006 at 09:49 PM
pareng ron dinig nga mga panalangin mo... ;)

the 25th anniversary or the ultimate set is what im looking forward to see.  ;) definitely full of extras and with DTS sana.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on May 29, 2006 at 10:39 AM
Oo nga no, lakas ko sa taas, hehehe.  ;)

The news about the Special Ed circulated two years ago pa, bro.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: talisman30 on May 30, 2006 at 04:35 PM
news from yahoo.com: (para mas lalo tayo manggigil sa kakaantay... ;D)

"Blade Runner" replicated on DVD again
Tuesday May 30 3:10 AM ET

Ridley Scott's sci-fi classic "Blade Runner," one of the first movies to appear on DVD in 1997, is being restored and remastered for a brief reissue in September.

The DVD, featuring the 1992 "director's cut," will be deleted after four months, and replaced by a 25th anniversary "final cut," which Warner Home Video is billing as Scott's "definitive new version" of the film.

After a limited theatrical release, the newly spruced-up "Runner" will be released in a multidisc special edition DVD that also will include the original theatrical cut, the expanded international theatrical cut and the 1992 director's cut.

ADVERTISEMENT
Warner said specifics about the two DVD editions will be announced later.

The director's cut first came out on DVD before optimal formatting standards had been established, said Doug Pratt, editor of the DVD-LaserDisc Newsletter.

"Shortly afterwards, it went into moratorium. The early adopters who bought the title have long since wished to see it upgraded, while other fans, who came into DVDs later on, have been unable to find it at all. It is the only 'big' sci-fi spectacle currently unavailable on DVD," Pratt said.

"Runner" stars Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, Edward James Olmos and Daryl Hannah and won plaudits -- as well as two Oscar nominations -- for its dark, bleak vision of the future. Ford heads the cast as Rick Deckard, a futuristic cop -- the film is set in 2019 Los Angeles -- who needs to kill four errant human clones who hijack a space ship back to Earth after escaping from exile in an off-world colony.

The film opened in theaters in summer 1982, and while it grossed only $26.2 million, it quickly became a cult classic. The film is based on the novel by late science fiction writer Philip K. Dick, whose prose also led to such films as "Total Recall," "Minority Report" and "Paycheck."

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on May 30, 2006 at 06:08 PM
The video release of BLADE RUNNER in vhs format during the 80's was one of the reasons why it niched its cult status image. People suddenly discovered again this film.

Its theatrical box-office gross is very small.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: THX1138 on May 31, 2006 at 05:11 PM
So there will be a sixth version of the movie...

 
the new version now being prepared - The Blade Runner Final Cut

But since the Final cut will be close to the sneak preview versions then we will finally have ALL of them!!
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on May 31, 2006 at 05:39 PM
The U.S. domestic cut is the one that I have on vhs. The final cut will be the most awesome version.  :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: seph1018 on Jun 01, 2006 at 03:06 PM
Good news indeed...looking forward to this!!! ;D
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: talisman30 on Jun 01, 2006 at 03:12 PM
 Warner has announced that it has acquired worldwide rights to Ridley Scott’s  Blade Runner and plans two new DVD releases of the futuristic classic. First, a restored and remastered DVD version of the 1992 Director’s Cut will debut in September in the U.S. for a special four-month limited release, after which it will be placed on moratorium by WHV. Later in 2007, to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary, the studio will unveil Blade Runner: The Final Cut, Scott’s definitive new version of his science-fiction masterpiece. The film will be released theatrically in select major U.S. cities, followed by a multi-disc Special Edition DVD release which will also contain three alternate versions of Blade Runner: the Original U.S. Theatrical Cut, the Expanded International Theatrical Cut and the 1992 Director’s Cut. According to the final press release 'ample, ground-breaking bonus features' will also be included. Further details to follow shortly.

from: dvdactive
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on Jun 01, 2006 at 09:04 PM
I'm curious on the exact running time of the different versions.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: talisman30 on Jun 02, 2006 at 12:54 PM
Quote from: keating on Jun 01, 2006 at 09:04 PM
I'm curious on the exact running time of the different versions.

ako bro nalito na. hehehe... daming cuts bro  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: THX1138 on Jun 02, 2006 at 04:15 PM
Ridley Scott finally admitted a few years ago that Deckard (Harrsion Ford) was a Replicant.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/entertainment/newsid_825000/825641.stm

I wonder how this will affect his new edit of the film...
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on Jun 02, 2006 at 10:55 PM
Quote from: talisman30 on Jun 02, 2006 at 12:54 PM
ako bro nalito na. hehehe... daming cuts bro  ;D ;D ;D

Sometimes Scott is confusing, dude. He prefers the theatrical cut of his films like ALIEN. But supports wholeheartedly the dvd format.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: riverfan on Jun 30, 2006 at 09:32 AM
naiintriga ako sa movie. by all of your good, euphoric experiences with the movie, am planning to buy the 2 disc set.

will probably buy the R3 DE instead. what do you think? no major changes naman siguro since this being released by Warner din naman.  :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on Jul 01, 2006 at 08:36 PM
You shouldn't be, riverfan. Its one of the best sci-fi ever made and Scott's best.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: talisman30 on Jul 03, 2006 at 09:26 AM
Quote from: keating on Jul 01, 2006 at 08:36 PM
You shouldn't be, riverfan. Its one of the best sci-fi ever made and Scott's best.

take it riverfan from keating. (coming from a super avid fan of Scott)  ;).

no really, saw the film and indeed it's been one of hollywood's historical landmark in film making. sana nga maging creative yung mga new director's and more visionary like Scott.  right keats?!;)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: riverfan on Jul 03, 2006 at 11:49 AM
gee... thanks for the added comments. Secured na ang title na to' on my buying list. Thanks again.  ;D
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on Jul 03, 2006 at 06:53 PM
Quote from: talisman30 on Jul 03, 2006 at 09:26 AM
take it riverfan from keating. (coming from a super avid fan of Scott)  ;).

no really, saw the film and indeed it's been one of hollywood's historical landmark in film making. sana nga maging creative yung mga new director's and more visionary like Scott.  right keats?!;)

I like your comment talisman, more visionary. Scott's visuals have never been boring, Ridley not Tony baka ma-confuse si riverfan, hehehe.  ;)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: talisman30 on Jul 07, 2006 at 12:10 AM
That's right Sir Ridley Scott. ;)

Magkamukha pa naman kyung dalawang magkapatid na yun.  ;D
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: ThePatriot on Jul 08, 2006 at 09:03 AM
di pa rin available for pre-order sa amazon...  :( :( :(
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on Jul 09, 2006 at 06:11 PM
Quote from: talisman30 on Jul 07, 2006 at 12:10 AM
That's right Sir Ridley Scott. ;)

Magkamukha pa naman kyung dalawang magkapatid na yun.  ;D

But very different filmographies, dude.  ;)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: ThePatriot on Jul 27, 2006 at 11:36 PM
from dvdactive:

Title: Blade Runner
Starring: Harrison Ford
Released: 12th September 2006
SRP: $19.97

Further Details:
Warner has announced a fully restored and remastered Blade Runner: The Director's Cut which stars Harrison Ford. The disc will be available to own from the 12th September, and should retail at around  $19.97. The film will be presented in 2.40:1 anamorphic widescreen, along with English and French Dolby 2.0 Stereo Surround tracks. We have no word on any extra material at this time, but we'll bring you further details shortly. We should also point out that Blade Runner: The Final Cut, Scott’s definitive new version of his science-fiction masterpiece will arrive next year to coincide with the 25th Anniversary of the film. This will contain three alternate versions of Blade Runner: the Original U.S. Theatrical Cut, the Expanded International Theatrical Cut and the 1992 Director’s Cut. Stay tuned for further details.

http://www.dvdactive.com/news/releases/blade-runner.html
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: classicman on Jul 28, 2006 at 11:36 AM
i might just wait for the 25th Anniv. ed. due next year........ 8)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: keating on Jul 28, 2006 at 11:43 AM
Warner wants us to double dip in this much awaited Ridley Scott film, they should have work out for just one fully loaded release.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: hemisphere on Jul 31, 2006 at 12:01 AM
back cover art:

(http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/8739/bladerunnerqd4.th.jpg) (http://img76.imageshack.us/my.php?image=bladerunnerqd4.jpg)


from davisdvd

 8)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: im2bz on Aug 07, 2006 at 08:02 PM
available na for pre-order!!! ;D ;D ;D

13.99!!!!!
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: ranran on Aug 08, 2006 at 05:34 PM
Quote from: im2bz on Aug 07, 2006 at 08:02 PM
available na for pre-order!!! ;D ;D ;D

13.99!!!!!

where is it available, sir?  i only checked Amazon and what they have is the DC version.  ???
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: im2bz on Aug 08, 2006 at 08:55 PM
ay oo nga dc lang pala.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: riverfan on May 02, 2007 at 11:17 AM
whatever happened to BLADE RUNNER, any updates?  :P
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: jas on May 03, 2007 at 09:24 AM
Read they are currently doing reshoots & new effects work for the upcoming Final Cut.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: jas on Jul 26, 2007 at 06:04 PM
from DVD Times:

Blade Runner: The Final Cut (R1) in December - Full Details! 
 
The one that started it all. Sir Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner, starring Harrison Ford, is one of the most important science-fiction movies of the 20th Century -- the film with immeasurable influence on society for its futuristic depiction of a post-apocalyptic, dystopian world, a film perhaps more powerful and relevant today than when it was made. The film, in fact, has appeared on more ‘Top Five’ sci-fi lists than any other film.

In celebration of its 25th anniversary, director Ridley Scott has gone back into post production to create the long-awaited definitive new version, which Warner Home Video will unveil on DVD December 18th in the U.S. Blade Runner: The Final Cut, spectacularly restored and remastered from original elements and scanned at 4K resolution, will contain never-before-seen added/extended scenes, added lines, new and improved special effects, director and filmmaker commentary, an all-new 5.1 Dolby® Digital audio track and more.

A showcase theatrical run is also being planned for New York and Los Angeles October 5.

Blade Runner: The Final Cut will be included in three stunning DVD editions: a Two-Disc Special Edition (at $20.97 SRP), a Four-disc Collector’s Edition ($34.99 SRP) and the Five-Disc Ultimate Collector’s Edition ($78.92 SRP) in Collectible “Deckard Briefcase” packaging.

Simultaneous HD DVD and Blu-Ray versions (each $TBD) of the “Deckard Briefcase” will also be released in numbered, limited quantities. HD DVD and Blu-Ray 5-Disc Digi Packs with collectible slipcase (each $TBD) will include all of the UCE content.

Ford, Rutger Hauer, Edward James Olmos, Joanna Cassidy, Sean Young and Daryl Hannah are among some 80 stars, filmmakers and others who participate in the extensive bonus features. Among the bonus material highlights is Dangerous Days - a brand new, three-and-a-half-hour documentary by award-winning DVD producer Charles de Lauzirika, with an extensive look into every aspect of the film: its literary genesis, its challenging production and its controversial legacy. The definitive documentary to accompany the definitive film version.

Additionally, two of the collections (4- & 5-Disc) will include an entire disc with hours of enhanced content containing featurettes and galleries devoted to over 45 minutes of deleted and alternate scenes recently discovered in deep storage and approved by Ridley Scott, visual effects as well as background on author Philip K. Dick, script development, abandoned sequences, conceptual design, overall impact of the film and how it lead to the birth of cyberpunk. Trailers, TV spots and promotional featurettes will also be included.

Among some of the fascinating factoids talked about in the special features:

   Notable actual locations were used to reflect 2019 Los Angeles, such as Union Station, 2nd Street tunnel and the Bradbury building.
   The top of Police Headquarters is actually part of the Mothership from “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.”
   In the last scene, Rutger Hauer made the jump between buildings himself.
   In the fight scene between Daryl Hannah and Harrison Ford, Hannah pulled Ford’s nose so hard that his nose actually bled afterwards.
   Holding a dove, and letting it fly away, in the last scene was never in the script, but rather Rutger Hauer’s idea when filming the scene.
   “Dangerous Days” was originally the name of the script.

Said Sir Ridley Scott: "The Final Cut is the product of a process that began in early 2000 and continued off and on through seven years of intense research and meticulous restoration, technical challenges, amazing discoveries and new possibilities. I can now wholeheartedly say that Blade Runner: The Final Cut is my definitive director’s cut of the film."

Jeff Baker, Warner Home Video Senior VP and General Manager, Theatrical Catalog and Domestic Sales, says: "25 years ago the critics said Blade Runner was ahead of its time and today it’s still ahead of its time. This is clearly Ridley’s signature film and we‘re delighted to offer these great editions to the Blade Runner fans who’ve been so patient, despite besieging us with thousands of annual requests in recent years for new DVDs. A number of people have told me that at the start of DVD, Blade Runner was absolutely the first title they wanted -- so much so that they purchased it even before their first DVD player! We think they’ll agree that the new cut and the new editions are worth waiting for.”

DETAILS OF BLADE RUNNER EDITIONS

BLADE RUNNER: THE FINAL CUT SPECIAL EDITION (2-DISC)

Disc One
RIDLEY SCOTT'S ALL-NEW "FINAL VERSION" OF THE FILM
Restored and remastered with added & extended scenes, added lines, new and cleaner special effects and all new 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio. Also includes:

Commentary by Ridley Scott
Commentary by Executive Producer/ Co-Screenwriter Hampton Fancher and Co-Screenwriter David Peoples; Producer Michael Deely and production executive Katherine Haber
Commentaries by visual futurist Syd Mead; production designer Lawrence G. Paull, art director David L. Snyder and special photographic effects supervisors Douglas Trumbull, Richard Yuricich and David Dryer

Disc Two
DOCUMENTARY DANGEROUS DAYS: MAKING BLADE RUNNER
A feature-length authoritative documentary revealing all the elements that shaped this hugely influential cinema landmark. Cast, crew, critics and colleagues give a behind-the-scenes, in-depth look at the film -- from its literary roots and inception through casting, production, visuals and special effects to its controversial legacy and place in Hollywood history.


BLADE RUNNER: COLLECTOR’S EDITION (4-DISC)

The Four-Disc Collector's Edition includes everything from the 2-Disc Special Edition plus three additional versions of the film, as well as an “Enhancement Archive” bonus disc of enhanced content that includes 90 minutes of deleted footage and rare or never-before-seen items in featurettes and galleries that cover the film's amazing history, production teams, special effects, impact on society, promotional trailers, TV spots, and much more.

Disc Three
1982 THEATRICAL VERSION
This is the version that introduced U.S. movie-going audiences to a revolutionary film with a new and excitingly provocative vision of the near-future. It contains Deckard/Harrison Ford’s character narration and has Deckard and Rachel’s (Sean Young) “happy ending” escape scene.

1982 INTERNATIONAL VERSION
Also used on U.S. home video, laserdisc and cable releases up to 1992. This version is not rated, and contains some extended action scenes in contrast to the Theatrical Version.

1992 DIRECTOR'S CUT
The Director's Cut omits Deckard's voiceover narration and removes the "happy ending" finale. It adds the famously-controversial "unicorn" sequence, a vision that Deckard has which suggests that he, too, may be a replicant.

Disc Four
BONUS DISC - “Enhancement Archive”
Featurette The Electric Dreamer: Remembering Philip K. Dick
Featurette Sacrificial Sheep: The Novel vs. The Film
Philip K. Dick: The Blade Runner Interviews (Audio)
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep Cover Gallery (Images)
The Art of Blade Runner (Image Galleries)
Featurette Signs of the Times: Graphic Design
Featurette Fashion Forward: Wardrobe & Styling
Screen Tests: Rachel & Pris
Featurette The Light That Burns: Remembering Jordan Cronenweth
Unit Photography Gallery
Deleted & Alternate Scenes
1982 Promotional Featurettes
Trailers & TV Spots
Featurette Promoting Dystopia: Rendering the Poster Art
Marketing & Merchandise Gallery (Images)
Featurette Deck-A-Rep: The True Nature of Rick Deckard
Featurette Nexus Generation: Fans & Filmmakers


BLADE RUNNER: ULTIMATE COLLECTOR’S EDITION (5-DISC)

The 5-disc Ultimate Collector's Edition includes everything from the previously described 4-Disc Edition, plus the ultra-rare, near-legendary WORKPRINT version of the film, newly remastered. The Ultimate Collector’s Edition will be presented in a unique 5-disc digi-package with handle which is a stylish version of Rick Deckard's own briefcase, in addition each briefcase will be individually numbered and in limited supply. Included is a lenticular motion film clip from the original feature, miniature origami unicorn figurine, miniature replica spinner car, collector's photographs as well as a signed personal letter from Sir Ridley Scott.

Disc Five
WORKPRINT VERSION
This rare version of the film is considered by some to be the most radically different of all the Blade Runner cuts. It includes an altered opening scene, no Deckard narration until the final scenes, no "unicorn" sequence, no Deckard/Rachel "happy ending,” altered lines between Batty (Rutger Hauer) and his creator Tyrell (Joe Turkell), alternate music and much more.

Also includes:
Commentary by Paul M. Sammon, author of Future Noir: The Making of Blade Runner
Featurette All Our Variant Futures: From Workprint to Final Cut
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: jas on Jul 26, 2007 at 06:11 PM
from Variety:

(http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/6348/bladerunnerdvd420st3.jpg)

'Blade Runner' gets final cut
DVD set will include five versions of Scott pic
By STEPHEN SAITO

For a film that defined what it meant to be a "director's cut" for the masses, "Blade Runner" has waited 25 years to receive a proper one.
On Dec. 18, Warner will release "Blade Runner: The Final Cut," the definitive version of director Ridley Scott's fusion of film noir and science fiction, which has become a cult classic since its initial failure at the box office in 1982. One of Warner's most popular titles today, the film will be available in both HD formats and in three different DVD editions, with the final cut also receiving select theatrical playdates in New York, Los Angeles and the Venice Film Fest.

So why revisit the movie after all this time? Maligned and misunderstood in its day, "Blade Runner" actually established much of the aesthetic that defines cinematic sci-fi, from the movie's wet-streets, neon-and-steam look to the grim, pessimistic tone gleaned from Philip K. Dick's dystopian novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?"

"When they were test screening the film, the response was pretty confused and negative," explains Charles de Lauzirika, who produced the final cut. "The people who saw the film back then didn't really get it." The movie was too dark, too downbeat and ultimately too different from Harrison Ford's "Star Wars"-style screen persona for auds.

The trouble started when, during the film's post-production, the completion bond locked Scott out of the editing room and the studio released its own version of the film with narration from Ford and a "happy ending" that showed Ford and co-star Sean Young riding off into the sunset.

Though Scott's gritty vision of the future eventually won over fans on homevideo, the director didn't get a chance to change "Blade Runner" until 1991, when Warner Bros. accidentally sent Scott's darker "workprint" version of the film to a repertory screening. The cut became a word-of-mouth sensation, so Warner invited Scott to return and re-edit the film, but the helmer was busy finishing "Thelma & Louise" and prepping his next project, the Christopher Columbus epic "1492."

As a result, Scott and the studio agreed to hire then-Warner film preservation director Michael Arick to work with Scott on a version that would have "no narration, no happy ending, but add the unicorn dream" -- referring to a controversial sequence that suggests Deckard is a replicant.

"It wasn't really Ridley's true stamp on it," says de Lauzirika. "They had to cobble something together that approximated his wishes."

But de Lauzirika wouldn't let it go. "Blade Runner" is his favorite movie. "It's the whole reason I wanted to work with Ridley," says the USC grad who joined Scott's company as an intern fresh out of film school in 1994. In the 15 years since the so-called "director's cut" was released, de Lauzirika has produced numerous special-edition DVDs for Scott, from the first "Alien" disc to last year's ambitious four-disc "Kingdom of Heaven" set.

In 2000, he met with Warner to discuss releasing a definitive version of "Blade Runner" (at the time, co-executive producers Bud Yorkin and Jerry Perenchio still held the rights). Originally conceived as a two-DVD set with seamless branching of additional scenes and separate audio tracks for Ford's narration, the project has taken on near-mythological levels, requiring de Lauzirika to sort through 977 boxes of negative and even supervising a day of reshoots involving Joanna Cassidy and Harrison Ford's son Ben, who synched up a scene at Abdul Al-Assan's snake shop that has long irritated fans.

The unicorn dream is back, although its meaning is intended to be ambiguous, de Lauzirika insists.

"I think Ridley thinks the clues are obvious, but it's never overtly stated, so it's really up to you," he says. "It's just meant to be something to consider. Even in the new version, it's not clarified any further. The new unicorn dream stylistically just makes it more of a dream sequence."

Now, Scott finally has a version that won't irritate him. Although fans of the film have been divided over which cut they prefer -- Christopher Nolan famously screened the original version at UCLA in 2003, though many give the edge to the 1992 cut -- all can agree with Blade Zone site manager Gary Willoughby when he says, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of thing."

The final set arrives in a briefcase containing five different versions of the film (including the workprint that started it all) and a three-hour documentary, giving fans license to choose their favorite take. Other DVD releases have provided before-and-after comparisons, such as the recent "Star Wars" discs that feature George Lucas' original pre-CG versions or the Criterion Collection's three-disc "Brazil" release, but "Blade Runner" takes it to another level.

"That's the idea of including the five versions: to see where it started and where it ended up," de Lauzirika says.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: seph1018 on Jul 28, 2007 at 02:15 PM
oh man...this thing is very hard to resist. ;)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: riverfan on Jul 29, 2007 at 12:28 PM
i have not seen this film.  ;D the 5 disc set looks really cool. which one to buy, hmm.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: RadicalDude on Jul 30, 2007 at 05:22 PM
Looks like my patience of not buying any previous version of this film had finally paid off...  :o


And it's now available for pre-order from Amazon @ $54.99.  :D
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: ThePatriot on Jul 31, 2007 at 06:37 AM
from dvdactive:

Title: Blade Runner: The Final Cut
Starring: Harrison Ford
Released: 18th December 2007
SRP: $20.97 (2-Disc)

Further Details:
Warner Home Video has officially announced Blade Runner: The Final Cut which has been spectacularly restored and remastered from original elements and scanned at 4K resolution. The film will be available in three stunning DVD editions: a two-disc special edition ($20.97), a four-disc collector’s edition ($34.99 SRP) and the five-disc Ultimate Collector’s Edition ($78.92 SRP) in collectible “Deckard Briefcase” packaging. Extras on the two-disc will include a commentary by Ridley Scott, a commentary by Executive Producer/ Co-Screenwriter Hampton Fancher and Co-Screenwriter David Peoples; Producer Michael Deely and production executive Katherine Haber, and further commentaries by visual futurist Syd Mead; production designer Lawrence G. Paull, art director David L. Snyder and special photographic effects supervisors Douglas Trumbull, Richard Yuricich and David Dryer. Completing the set will be a feature length documentary revealing all the elements that shaped this hugely influential cinema landmark.

The Four-Disc Collector's Edition includes everything from the 2-Disc Special Edition plus three additional versions of the film (1982 Theatrical Version, 1982 International Version, 1992 Directors Cut), as well as an “Enhancement Archive” bonus disc of enhanced content.  Features on this disc will include The Electric Dreamer: Remembering Philip K. Dick featirette,a Sacrificial Sheep: The Novel vs. The Film featurette, Philip K. Dick: The Blade Runner Interviews (Audio), a Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep Cover Gallery, image galleries, featurettes on graphic design and wardrobe and styling, Screen Tests: Rachel & Pris, and a The Light That Burns: Remembering Jordan Cronenweth featurette. Completing the package will be a Unit Photography Gallery, Deleted & Alternate Scenes, a 1982 Promotional Featurette, trailers and TV spots, a Promoting Dystopia: Rendering the Poster Art feature, a Marketing & Merchandise Gallery, a Deck-A-Rep: The True Nature of Rick Deckard featurette, and a Nexus Generation: Fans & Filmmakers featurette.

Lastly there will be the five-disc Ultimate Collector's Edition. This will include everything above, along with the ultra-rare, near-legendary Workprint version of the film, newly remastered. A commentary by Paul M. Sammon, author of Future Noir: The Making of Blade Runner will also be included, along with an All Our Variant Futures: From Workprint to Final Cut featurette. The Ultimate Collector’s Edition will be presented in a unique 5-disc digi-package with handle which is a stylish version of Rick Deckard's own briefcase, in addition each briefcase will be individually numbered and in limited supply. Included is a lenticular motion film clip from the original feature, miniature origami unicorn figurine, miniature replica spinner car, some collector's photographs as well as a signed personal letter from Sir Ridley Scott.  Simultaneous HD DVD and Blu-Ray versions (each $TBD) of the “Deckard Briefcase” will also be released in numbered, limited quantities. HD DVD and Blu-Ray 5-Disc Digi Packs with collectible slipcase (each $TBD) will include all of the UCE content.

http://www.dvdactive.com/news/releases/blade-runner-the-final-cut.html (http://www.dvdactive.com/news/releases/blade-runner-the-final-cut.html)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: techdude on Jul 31, 2007 at 11:23 PM
Any idea how many of the 5-disc set will be available.  It's now #5 on Amazon DVD bestseller list.  So how can we be sure to get one if the number is extremely limited.. preorder now?
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: RadicalDude on Aug 03, 2007 at 10:41 AM
Having seen all 3 formats at Amazon in Deckard Briefcase packaging, now I'm confused if I'll still get the standard DVD or I'll go with either HD...
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: baby on Aug 04, 2007 at 07:33 AM
Quote from: RadicalDude on Aug 03, 2007 at 10:41 AM
Having seen all 3 formats at Amazon in Deckard Briefcase packaging, now I'm confused if I'll still get the standard DVD or I'll go with either HD...
Pre order all 3 formats.  In case it will ran out at least you have pre-ordered them all.  1 or 2 weeks before the release date decide what to get between the 3 briefcase.  It's like Deal or no Deal.  ;D

Definitely I'll get 1.  Christmas gift for myself.  :)
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: baby on Aug 04, 2007 at 07:36 AM
Another thing.  If this will be released here in DVD R3 with the same specs and in lower price.  I'll get the R3 briefcase.  Also in HD-DVD or BD.

 
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: boredfilmmaker on Oct 02, 2007 at 11:21 PM
there's a film review (http://www.thedigitalbits.com/reviews3/bladerunnerfinalfilm.html) of The Final Cut over at Digital Bits..
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: boredfilmmaker on Oct 05, 2007 at 12:52 AM
Quote from: techdude on Jul 31, 2007 at 11:23 PM
Any idea how many of the 5-disc set will be available.  It's now #5 on Amazon DVD bestseller list.  So how can we be sure to get one if the number is extremely limited.. preorder now?

over at HomeTheaterForum (http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=55563&page=71), a couple of those who pre-ordered a copy of this got emails from amazon informing them of a delay in delivery.. something about a change in shipment date.. looks like this really is going to be a first come, first served basis.. anybody here pre-ordered this?
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: baby on Oct 05, 2007 at 07:01 AM
Quote from: boredfilmmaker on Oct 05, 2007 at 12:52 AM
over at HomeTheaterForum (http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=55563&page=71), a couple of those who pre-ordered a copy of this got emails from amazon informing them of a delay in delivery.. something about a change in shipment date.. looks like this really is going to be a first come, first served basis.. anybody here pre-ordered this?
Haven't received any e-mails yet from Amazon.  I hope my order will not be canceled due to limited stocks if it is limited.

Quote from: boredfilmmaker on Oct 02, 2007 at 11:21 PM
there's a film review (http://www.thedigitalbits.com/reviews3/bladerunnerfinalfilm.html) of The Final Cut over at Digital Bits..
A detailed explanation.  Now I'm excited.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: RadicalDude on Oct 05, 2007 at 08:26 AM
Quote from: boredfilmmaker on Oct 05, 2007 at 12:52 AM
over at HomeTheaterForum (http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=55563&page=71), a couple of those who pre-ordered a copy of this got emails from amazon informing them of a delay in delivery.. something about a change in shipment date.. looks like this really is going to be a first come, first served basis.. anybody here pre-ordered this?

I pre-ordered the Blu-ray 5-disc Ultimate edition last August 2... so far I haven't received any notification of delayed shipment date.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: techdude on Jan 02, 2008 at 11:53 PM
How many of the HD-DVD and BR version of the Limited 5-discs version was made?  Any ideas?

The DVD version is numbered with a silver sticker indicating that 103,000 was made. 
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: allanmandy on Jan 02, 2008 at 11:58 PM
I saw the 5-Disc R1 UE set in Spectra Park Square 1 today. 5700 bucks.

OT: Also saw the Battlestar Galactica Complete Series set for 4700.


Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: boredfilmmaker on Jan 03, 2008 at 12:20 AM
Quote from: techdude on Jan 02, 2008 at 11:53 PM
How many of the HD-DVD and BR version of the Limited 5-discs version was made?  Any ideas?

The DVD version is numbered with a silver sticker indicating that 103,000 was made. 

actually, i think, 103,000 is for all versions already in the US.. in Canada, i think, 10,000 for the SD then 2,500 each for the HD and BR versions.. DVDTalk is tracking them here (http://forum.dvdtalk.com/showthread.php?t=520399)..
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: techdude on Jan 03, 2008 at 12:53 AM
So it seems the HD-DVD and The Blu-ray will be the more limited of all three.    Got the SD version...now I wished i had gotten the bluray instead (I still do not have a PS3 but will buy one in 2008 :) ) 

SD: #40667 of 103000  via Emildjr.
Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: xage on Jan 03, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Quote from: boredfilmmaker on Jan 03, 2008 at 12:20 AM
actually, i think, 103,000 is for all versions already in the US.. in Canada, i think, 10,000 for the SD then 2,500 each for the HD and BR versions.. DVDTalk is tracking them here (http://forum.dvdtalk.com/showthread.php?t=520399)..

Correct, and Australia is LE to 40,000 (I think the SD only)

Actual Photo of the Rare Canadian Version

Quote from: xage on Dec 31, 2007 at 01:02 PM
I just got my Blade Runner 5disc Briefcase Blu-Ray LE#0891/2500

(http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b221/xage00/BR_BR.jpg)

details:
(http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b221/xage00/BR_BR3.jpg)

(http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b221/xage00/BR_BR2.jpg)

Title: Re: FINALLY......Blade Runner SE/CE
Post by: JAQY888 on Jun 19, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Blade Runner Named Top DVD of '07
Posted: June 16, 2008 : @homemediamagazine.com

CENTURY CITY, Calif. — Ridley Scott’s 1982 sci-fi classic Blade Runner was the big winner at the fourth annual DVD Critics Awards, with a Warner Home Video re-release of the film earning honors for best director’s cut and best overall home video of 2007.

The DVD Critics Awards dinner was part of the first day of TransFORMATions: The 7th Annual Home Entertainment Summit, held June 16-17 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel in Century City, Calif. TransFORMATions was presented by Home Media Magazine in cooperation with DEG: The Digital Entertainment Group and the Entertainment Merchants Association.

A judges panel of home entertainment critics and journalists sorted through nearly 140 entries to determine the best titles in a variety of categories. All titles released during 2007 were eligible for submission.

Best director’s cut winner Blade Runner: The Final Cut was released by Warner in December of last year, representing Scott’s definitive new version of the film. The Final Cut was also part of best of show winner Blade Runner: Ultimate Collector’s Edition, a five-disc set that collects several different versions of the film, plus a three-hour retrospective documentary and other extras packed in a briefcase replica of a prop used in the film, and stuffed with art cards and other memorabilia.