Blade Runner 2099: Filming to Take Place in the Czech Republic
Blade Runner 2099, the anticipated follow-up to the enduring science fiction classics Blade Runner and Blade Runner 2049, is slated to shoot in the Czech Republic. The production will unfold at Barrandov Film Studios in Prague, with principal photography scheduled to commence in June. This move marks a notable shift for the franchise, signaling a renewed commitment to a distinctive European filming backdrop that blends iconic retro-futurist aesthetics with modern production facilities. Source: Daily Screen.
The narrative for the series is set fifty years after the events depicted in Blade Runner 2049, promising a fresh arc while maintaining the franchise’s signature themes of memory, identity, and the boundaries between human and artificial life. By anchoring the story in a world that has evolved yet remains haunted by past choices, the series aims to explore how society adapts to decades of technological progress, synthetic beings, and shifting political landscapes. Production discussions emphasize a expansive, cinematic tone designed to attract both longtime fans and new viewers. Source: Daily Screen.
Officials connected to Barrandov Film Studios, including Petr Tikhy, have shared optimistic projections about the project’s economic impact. The filmmakers are expected to invest roughly $43 million in filming activities across the Czech Republic, a sum that underscores the country’s growing role as a hub for large-scale genre productions. The investment is anticipated to stimulate local crews, post-production services, and infrastructure, while also contributing to Prague’s already vibrant creative economy. Source: Daily Screen.
Jonathan van Tulleken, known for his work on the comedy Movie 34 and the series Misfits, will steer the series as director. The project also assigns an executive producer role to none other than Ridley Scott, the visionary behind the original Blade Runner, who remains a guiding force for the cinematic direction and thematic fidelity of the universe. Scott’s ongoing involvement signals a careful balance between reverence for the franchise’s roots and the ambition to push its world into newer, more expansive territory. Source: Daily Screen.
Ridley Scott, reflecting on the Blade Runner legacy, reaffirmed in 2023 that there was a sense of missed opportunity regarding Blade Runner 2049. His candid viewpoint highlights the enduring passion within the production circle to continue the saga with a perspective that resonates with contemporary audiences while honoring the franchise’s iconic visuals and philosophical questions. The new project is positioned as a chance to refine that vision and deliver a story that feels both essential and timely. Source: Daily Screen.
In addition to official announcements, industry commentary has occasionally touched on broader cultural moments connected to the Blade Runner mythos. For instance, comments from author Daria Dontsova, though not directly tied to the upcoming series, have been noted for drawing unexpected attention among readers who follow cross-genre conversations. Such remarks illustrate how the Blade Runner phenomenon intersects with wider discussions about storytelling, identity, and the evolving tastes of global audiences. Source: Daily Screen.