A January 2018 release date was finally set for the sequel of Ridley Scott's 1982 sci-fi thriller currently dubbed as Blade Runner 2 which experts said could be a positive factor for the film. Filming is set to begin in July while speculations continue to surface regarding the second film's plot.
The Harrison Ford starrer is headed for a sequel more than three decades after the release of the first movie. According to Ecumenical News, Ford will return to reprise his role as the former cop turned android slayer, Rick Deckard. He will also be joined by Ryan Gosling who will take the lead role in the sequel.
The Warner Bros. announced last month that the movie will be released in mid-January 2018 which many thought to be a negative indication as January has been notorious to be the release season of not so impressive films.
However, according to Hitfix, several box-office experts stated that the release date could actually be a genius idea given that it would give the movie less competition with the big-budget movies slated on a different time frame.
Bruce Nash stated that Blade Runner 2 still has a big chance at topping the box office given the case of Deadpool which managed to make it big in the box office despite its mid-February release date.
"I think Deadpool has been obviously part of the proof of that -- that if you have the right movie and the right marketing campaign, people don't really care [about] the specific date that you release it", Nash stated.
Experts further stated that the sequel could make it big if the movie is done the right way. The fact that the movie was released more than 30 years ago could also come into play, which could mean a slimmer chance at luring the younger audience. They also noted that word of mouth and marketing would be essential for the film.
As stated in previous report, plot details are currently under wraps, but recent speculations suggest that Gosling could play as Ford's younger self. However, until official plot details are revealed, speculations must be treated with a grain of salt.
Sicario director Denis Villeneuve is set to direct the upcoming Blade Runner 2. It is written by Hamptn Fancher as well as Michael Green, while renowned cinematographer Roger Deakins is also on board for the project. It is set to hit theaters on January 12, 2018.
