Rachael and Deckard Departure

Lore & Background

Rachael has learned that her memories are implants, which changes how she sees herself. Deckard, tasked with hunting them, chooses to protect one instead, signaling a change in his moral compass. It leaves their ultimate fate open to interpretation, particularly regarding Deckard's own nature. Whether he is human or a replicant is left ambiguous.

Reader's Guide

After Roy Batty's death on the rooftop, Gaff reminds Deckard that Rachael will not live; Bryant has already ordered her retired. He returns to his apartment and escorts her to the elevator. They leave Los Angeles together. On the way out he notices a small origami unicorn on the floor. It tells him that Gaff has been there, and he recalls Gaff's words as they go. The scene concludes without confirming their ultimate fate, leaving viewers to ponder whether they are truly free or merely moving from one cage to another.

Did You Know?

• There are multiple versions of this scene across different film cuts released over decades.
• The unicorn daydream that gives the origami its meaning is only in the Director's Cut and the Final Cut.
• Rachael believes she is human until Deckard tells her that her memories are implants from Tyrell's niece.