The Year is 2049

Rating: 10/10 (12 October 2017)

Blade Runner 2049 is the 2017 sequel to the cult 1982 original. This stars Ryan Gosling, Jared Leto, Ana De Armas, and Harrison Ford. I have seen the original and consider it among my favorite films. So, having high expectations with a director I trust, how did this fare? Well, I'm glad you asked.
2049 takes place a full 30 years later after the original. Blade Runner officer "K" is planted on a new case after his findings from his last retirement job, discovering that a replicant had a child decades prior. Along the way, he meets Luv (Sylvia Hoeks) whilst finding answers to not just the case, but also to who he is.
2049's characters are surprisingly great and intriguing to see and learn about. K's relationship with Joi really showed how far the possibility of humanity coercing with technology on a personal and sexual manner. Harrison Ford gives one of his best performances i've seen from him in a while. And Jared Leto gives a performance that completely washes away the sins of his Suicide Squad role.
I loved this movie. Without Denis Villeneuve directing, I would have been entirely suspicious going in. And it exceeded my already high expectations. The set design and visual effects are the best i've seen in recent memory. This is without a doubt the best movie i've seen all year, let alone theatrically. If you're reading this now, I urge you to go and see it.
2049 includes themes of love, technology, humanity, and environmentalism. The tech presented here feels more realistic than most sci-fi movies today such as surprising audio glitches, programs getting put on hold when there's a phone call, and a start-up sound being present no matter the scenario. This film also takes the environment of the first film and makes it even more claustrophobic and crowded, in one brilliant shot making you think the tops of buildings are the ground.
It's a shame to see something like this do poorly at the box office. Though now that I think about it, makes it seem more like the original, except this time has garnered huge critical praise and a following already. This is a very adult film as kids should probably put this film on hold. Everyone else should watch it at least once.
Overall, I give Blade Runner 2049 a 10/10