Urgent advice required..Which version for a first timer?

Where do I start? Obviously I am here because Blade Runner is my favourite film of all time. For nearly 20 YEARS I defied watching any other version than the theatrical release because I couldn't stand the idea of it without the voice-over and happy ending...

But now...

I have seen The Final Cut and am simply in love with it.

That's all very well but here's my problem...

In the next few days, I have organised a screening for some people who have NEVER seen this marvelous work of art and my question is this...

Should they be shown the original theatrical version complete with voice-over and happy ending OR the director's FINAL CUT???

The reason why I am conflicted (and haven't been able to sleep) is because I was raised on the theatrical version and LOVED it. But now I realise that it was flawed. Knowing what I know now, I feel that if I show them this version they will be deprived (bearing in mind that these will be people that probably only ever watch it once and I want them to have the best impression of the film possible). I no longer like the happy ending OR the narration and I'm confused!

On the one hand, if they see the original version they get the benefit of the narration which might give them a bit more structure and focus. On the other hand, if they see the Final Cut, they get to see it as close to perfection as possible AND get the Unicorn scene (which of course lends itself to the tantalising conundrum of Deckard maybe being a replicant himself)

I just want these people to have the best experience possible so ANYONE'S input would be more than welcome.

Cheers.

I would say show them the Final Cut. Especially if you think they are only going to watch one version. My first experience was the Final Cut and I loved it. The next version I saw was the US theatrical. While I didn't dislike the voice over, I didn't really like the 'happy ending'.

[Kipple]

Make it a double feature! First show "The Final Cut", have an intermission, then show the 45 minute abridged version (Deleted/Alternate Scenes on dick 4...assuming you have the set.) It has narration, and has some humour in it.

I think you're right...

You're advice is much appreciated.

Sorry Kipple, I sent my reply to Junker as soon as your response came in!

You're idea is interesting as well but bottom line is, they are going to see "Final Cut" now....

Perhaps I'll drug their beverages and make 'em watch the whole damn thing (all the versions and all the special features)!!!

Now the aftermath of THAT would make an interesting post no?

Sounds like you could start your own snakepit.

What they said: The Final Cut.

If they have questions, you can always discuss later. One of the best things about BR is the incredible amount of dialog you can have with other people about it (hence this board).

Have fun!

YUP! Final Cut it is!!!

I'm in the minority here because I played the PC game first then saw the directors cut! I recommend this order, however, it probrably won't happen..so show them the uncorrected directors cut first.

Please tell us what happened.

only 1 question WHY OFF WORLD COLONIES IF SIERRA NEVADA STILL GRAT PLACE TO LIVE?

FINAL CUT!!!!


and i have yet to see it

only 1 question WHY OFF WORLD COLONIES IF SIERRA NEVADA STILL GRAT PLACE TO LIVE?

That's about the most random thing I've ever seen posted here.

Final Cut.

That hits a point I wasn't going to get into here, but oh well...

I mentioned this in another thread about how the '82 "happy ending' adds a new dimension to the story. That was what I meant.

The transition from "Hell" to "Heaven" is as obvious as possible. With the theological themes in the film as muddied as they were, it gave a whole new perspective to the characters' plight. Let's not forget the glaring absence of all religion...even Mercerism in the city. There were no references to Hannuka, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. In fact, the only religion represented was Hari Krishna!

Also, it is clear that, much of what was believed to be reality about the world around them, was proven by the outside world to be a lie.

This kind of revelation begs for a sequel!

But just because that was (seemingly) the only one that was explicitly shown doesn't mean that other religions no longer exist.

I mean, look at the two man-nuns.

Manuns. lol.

And having the beautiful open landscape outside the city really does conflict with the rest of the movie. But you present some interesting ideas.