Again, technically Deckard's job title is that of a Blade Runner (a.k.a. Bounty Hunter in the original novel), but at its core, Blade Runner is film noir parading as science fiction. Like Max Cherry, Deckard is a pillar of cynicism but also embodies the noir traits of the reluctant hero. Max Cherry sets his plan in motion for love, Rick Deckard is just doing what he has to do to survive. The character was originally written for the screen with anti-hero and film noir legend Robert Mitchum in mind, but eventually Dustin Hoffman was in talks to take on the role. After leaving the project for creative differences, Harrison Ford was cast. Upon seeing Ford's performance, Philip K. Dick - the writer of the original source material - stated: "Harrison Ford had not played that role, Deckard would never become an actual person. Ford radiates this tremendous reality when you see him."
While studying English and Philosophy at Rutgers University, Andrew worked as a constant contributor to the The Rutgers Review. After graduating in 2010, he began working as a free-lance writer and editor, providing his input to numerous areas including reviews for the New York Film Series, The Express-Times, and private script and story consulting. He is currently the Director of Film Studies at The Morris County Arts Workshop in New Jersey and publishes essays on the subject of film and television at his blog, The Zoetrope.
