Tears in Rain

Its with great sadness that we note the passing of the great dutch actor Rutger Hauer. Known principally for his iconic role as Roy Batty in Blade Runner, Hauer has an extensive film and tv career before starring in Ridley Scotts classic. Blog contributor Paul Vreede recalls him as a childhood hero as Floris the Knight on dutch tv and later as the Soldier of Orange.

Hauer has a substantial role in Batman Begins and many other big budget films, besides cult favourites such as Hobo with a Shotgun, Wanted; Dead or Alive and Blind Fury.

But for me, he stands head and shoulders over anyone in the cast of Blade Runner for his effortless charisma and screen presence as the leader of the rogue replicants. 'Nexus Six -Combat model, optimum self sufficiency' - a part which he fulfills in such a grand fashion, moving from a childlike innocence, through a venomous and stealthy menace to the final chase scene with Ford, as death nips at his coattails, in a final hedonistic revel of his abilities and power.

The Tears in Rain monologue must be one of the most moving and enigmatic set pieces in film history, as he regretfully recounts the wonders and visions he has experienced in his brief six year existence as he travelled amongst the stars, experiences which will be imminently washed away in the dirty rains of Los Angeles. Time to die.