The theme of disruption refers to the unbalancing of what is natural, a theme which is explored and opinionated in Mary Shelleys novel Frankenstein (1817) and Ridley Scotts Blade Runner (Directors cut), where disruptive actions of individuals, involving the exploitation of nature, bring about [ironically] the characters own downfall, and more importantly, an undesired outcome whilst playing god. The critical theme outlined in both texts is humanitys desire for power which leads to the rejection of our natural world, and this, by extension, means turning to technology and other unconventional methods in order to gain knowledge and distinction. Shelley specifically cautions against scientific advancement and the obsession which follows as only self-hurt is gained. Scott similarly warns against scientific advancement but in Blade Runner technology has already taken over and the identity theme is more centered than it is in Frankenstein. Each text also portrays the pursuit for identity, with Victor Frankenstein lusting for a higher distinguished position and Rick Deckard questioning his own physical creation as he has shows particular unease at how much his life revolves around the replicants.
When comparing the discrepancies and similarities of Blade Runner and Frankenstein, we see that Shellys use of imagery is her most prominent skill in presenting the sublime of the natural world. I shall no longer see the sun or stars, or feel the winds play on my cheek shows how well Shelley juxtaposes an ugly image [creature] against the sly nature sublime, suggesting that the creature, despite his creation, was a part of nature. Ultimately, it relates back to the theme of the novel, reminding us of the consequences of knowledge by disrupting nature, undesired outcomes are bound to occur. This natural imagery is contrasted in Blade Runner. In the opening scene, the cityscape is devoid of any natural elements, implying the degradation of the world to technology. The disruption of our natural environment gives way to more corporatism, globalism and technology.
Another major discrepancy between the two texts is the context in which each was written. Many regard Shelleys Frankenstein as the foundation for the gothic genre, displaying her opposition towards The Enlightenment, venting her opinions by cautioning those who use reason and science over superstition and old religious dogma. The Enlightenment period was followed by the Industrial Revolution, lead by Europe and Britain, and in our modern society today, technology has taken over and Shelleys caution is lost. In Blade Runner however, the context it was written relates to the science fiction novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick where the literally response to the advancement in science of the modern world as they were approaching cloning.
One important similarity connecting Tyrell and Frankensteins creature is the fact that they do not appear a part of the technological world despite their heavy roles in it. The creature is eloquent and seems peaceful in nature, he [it] finds comfort there. Tyrell, despite being the genius mind behind the creation of replicants, does not live in great technological prestige, rather, a more classical simple home. This is evident with the scene we first meet Tyrell, his house is lit with candles rather than electricity which is unexpected. This portrays many things, but the utmost important is both their wit and wisdom. Both Tyrell and the creature are sure of their identity, something the protagonists of these texts [Deckard, Victor F.] are not. The light that burns twice as bright burns half as long, and you have burned so very, very brightly Roy Dr Tyrell states this in full awareness of his impending death but the sublime message was that replicant or not, there was no escaping the genetic design of a human, hence, depicting the embodiment of the human condition: always wanting more and wanting want you cant have. Tyrell proves his wisdom with the fail-safe four year life span built into all new model replicants.
The parallels between the creature in Frankenstein, and Roy Batty in Blade Runner, the leader of the fugitive replicants, are obvious. Both are living creations of scientific endeavours, therefore, raising many of the moral and ethical concerns which a modern society reflects. Similarly, both are regarded as just another thing distinct from humans, though the distinction is blurred more in the case of replicants as they are genetically engineered to simulate humans in everything but emotional response. By comparing Roys experiences with the creature, however, we see that they both learn emotion.
The disruption of nature and the identity obsession are themes convincingly depicted as double edged sword: a weapon for and against the wielder/master. Frankenstein and Blade Runner (Directors Cut) both depict their view of an technologically advancing society being as much of a hindrance to us as it is useful to us. Moderation and balance is the key. Desire, ambition, and obsession leads one to the very edge of natural world and if we teeter on it for too long, we may just fall off and find ourselves worse off then when were in the beginning.
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