A Dulled ‘Blade’

Thank you for Kenneth Turan’s tactful piece on the so-called director’s cut of “Blade Runner” (“A Prime Cut,” Oct. 13). I’ve been a fan of this film since I first saw it in England 10 years ago, and I’m disturbed by Warner Bros.’ nonchalant treatment of what many consider to be a landmark work.

We should be grateful for any effort to restore and preserve our film heritage. But if Warner Bros. cares so much about preservation, why does this print look so dull? What happened to the incredible visuals that were the heart and soul of this film?

Now Ridley Scott has confirmed what many of us suspected when this new version surfaced two years ago at the Fairfax: That 70-millimeter print was a rare early test print and a valuable guide to the director’s intent. But it was certainly not a final director’s cut. Today even the most casual Nuart patron could spot the rough cuts and temporary music.

As a film buff who knows a bit about these things, I’m wondering why Warner Bros. continues to advertise this print as a restored director’s cut when it is obviously a murky copy of the test print I saw two years ago.

CLARICE AVANZATO

Los Angeles