EntertainmentBlade Runner 2099: Michelle Yeoh to star in Prime Video series

Blade Runner 2099: Michelle Yeoh to star in Prime Video series

Frame from "Blade Runner" from 1982.
Frame from "Blade Runner" from 1982.
Images source: © Press materials

8 May 2024 17:51

The Blade Runner series stands as a pinnacle in science fiction cinema, and its story will extend beyond the two existing feature films. Prime Video is set to create a miniseries titled "Blade Runner 2099," starring Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh. But what more do we know about this exciting new production?

Ridley Scott’s "Blade Runner" from 1982, featuring Harrison Ford and inspired by Philip K. Dick's novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" may not have been an immediate hit upon release. However, it quickly ascended to cult status and is now revered as a masterwork of the science fiction genre.

Moreover, "Blade Runner" is unparalleled in its visually striking portrayal of a dystopian future city, boasting several versions of the film. Scott himself holds that the director's cut is the definitive edition.

In 2017, "Blade Runner 2049" premiered, set 30 years after the original's events. This sequel, directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring Ryan Gosling and Sylvia Hoeks, proved its merit despite some opposition. It is a dazzling Hollywood genre film of this century, captivating audiences with its visual splendour and narrative rhythm.

"Blade Runner 2099" featuring Michelle Yeoh

The saga continues despite "Blade Runner 2049"'s modest box office performance. Prime Video has commissioned a miniseries, "Blade Runner 2099," envisioned as a follow-up to the second film. Details on the plot remain scarce for now.

Michelle Yeoh, celebrated globally for her Oscar-winning role in "Everything Everywhere All at Once," takes the lead in this new chapter. Yeoh is no stranger to series, having appeared in titles like "The Witcher: Blood Origin," "The Brothers Sun," and "American Born Chinese."

The creative team of Blade Runner 2099 includes Silka Luisa ("Shining Girls") as the showrunner and executive producer. Jonathan van Tulleken ("Shōgun") will direct the first two episodes and serve as executive producer.

Production for the miniseries might have commenced earlier if not for delays caused by writers' and actors' strikes. Initially pegged for Belfast, the shoot was relocated to Prague. As time progresses, we anticipate more details on "Blade Runner 2099." The anticipation for Amazon’s take on the iconic universe builds.

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