Is a sequel (or prequel) to Blade Runner coming our way?

Alcon Entertainment, the production company behind THE BLIND SIDE and THE BOOK OF ELI, has acquired the sequel and prequel rights to Ridley Scott’s classic sci-fi film BLADE RUNNER from original producer Bud Yorkin. The deal, which is in the final stage of negotiations, would give Alcon film, television and ancillary franchise rights to the property though the deal would exclude the rights to remake BLADE RUNNER (but would allow films to be developed that spinoff ideas and concepts from Scott’s film).

Warner Bros. would distribute any films borne from the deal though at this time, there is no project in active development.

Said Alcon CEOs Broderick Johnson and Andrew Kosove of the deal: “We are honored and excited to be in business with Bud Yorkin. This is a major acquisition for our company, and a personal favorite film for both of us. We recognize the responsibility we have to do justice to the memory of the original with any prequel or sequel we produce. We have long-term goals for the franchise, and are exploring multi-platform concepts, not just limiting ourselves to one medium only.”

Ridley Scott was recently talking up ideas on a new take on BLADE RUNNER and it’s unclear whether he will have any involvement (whether it be large or small) in a new project. Back in 2008, EAGLE EYE writer Travis Wright announced he was working on a spec version of a BLADE RUNNER sequel but it’s highly likely that Alcon and Warner Bros. will start from scratch.

So this is sure to be a controversial decision should they move forward with the film. What do you think about expanding the world of BLADE RUNNER? What makes you excited and/or what are your concerns?