9 Movies That Bombed Twice
2. Blade Runner
To non-fans, Blade Runner’s complex history of alternative cuts may be difficult to follow. It’s a topic of discussion not just regarding its home video releases, but it also goes back to the movie’s theatrical release.
On June 25th 1982, the U.S. got a taste of the film in what is called the “U.S. Theatrical Version” (or “Domestic Cut”). However, Europe saw a slightly altered version. Whilst it ran for the same length of time, the “International Cut” contained much more violence than the American release.
Two different versions of the same film however couldn’t stop the inevitable.
Ridley Scott’s disinterest in cookie-cutter action films made Blade Runner a tough sell to the general market. It would have fared poorly no matter where it was positioned. However, releasing in the summer of 1982 meant that it was up against some heavy-hitters that stopped its moderate success from building. Those who were not interested in hard sci-fi instead turned to easier romps such as Star Trek II, Conan and the mega-hit E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial.
Oh, and also The Thing was released on the very same day but we already know how that one ended.
Whilst it did turn a profit, $41m against its $30m budget is not all that significant especially considering Blade Runner's status today. Not even two different cuts could save it from having to work from underneath for its place as one of the most significant pieces of sci-fi cinema history.
Sadly, the belated sequel Blade Runner 2042 also was a commercial disappointment. The franchise can't catch a break.