There hasn't been too much news on the Blade Runner prequel/sequel front since the initial press release, so some readers may have missed out. Back in August, Alcon Entertainment announced that they had partnered up with Ridley Scott to develop a new Blade Runner film.
At the time of the announcement, it was not known whether Ridley Scott would be directing a prequel or sequel, but a recent interview has provided more information on the project. While talking with the Wall Street Journal, Ridley Scott mentions that the film is “liable to be a sequel". As for how closely it will tie into the original film, expect a standalone film that is similar to what Scott has done with Prometheus. He mentioned that the new film will not include any of the past cast members.
If Scott is able to crack the script with the right person, the new Blade Runner movie may be his next project: “I think I’m close to finding a writer that might be able to help me deliver... we’re quite a long way in, actually.”
With Prometheus due out on June 8th, 2012, the marketing campaign is going to kick off soon, and that will give Ridley Scott plenty of opportunities to talk about the future Blade Runner film. We'll be sure to keep readers posted on any new developments.