The development of BLADE RUNNER 2 has been a roller coaster. First, we had Ridley Scott back as director and then we didn't. Then we got Harrison Ford back but only in a minor capacity. Then, PRISONERS director Denis Villeneuve came on board and rumors that Ryan Gosling may take the lead. But, despite all of these, I am still optimistic that the movie will be good. With this latest news, I am more certain than ever.
Deadline has just learned that Denis Villeneuve will reunite with his PRISONERS and SICARIO cinematographer Roger Deakins for BLADE RUNNER 2. The esteemed director of photography is responsible for the stunning imagery on display in countless films ranging from NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, SKYFALL, and most recently Angelina Jolie's UNBROKEN. Nominated for 12 Academy Awards and winner of none, Deakins has a fervent fan-base who admire his visual prowess.
While the buzz surrounding SICARIO may finally garner Deakins that much deserved Oscar, the news that he will lens BLADE RUNNER 2 is beyond exciting. Ridley Scott brought a mood and style to the original film that made it the iconic piece of cinema that it remains to this day. Villeneuve has a dark and brooding style to his films and Deakins is the perfect man to capture it on film. This is a home run for movie fans.
There is no confirmed release date for BLADE RUNNER 2 but production is slated to begin Summer 2016, so hopefully that means we finally see the film in 2017.