Excellent though not perfect sequel

Rating: 8/10 (27 October 2017)

Let me say I'm a massive fan of the first film so this film is measured to exceptionally high standards. For the most part this sequel meets those expectations. It's visually stunning and has a great atmosphere. There's just three points of note that let it down slightly. I say slightly as they don't stop me scoring this an excellent 8/10. I'm not quite down to the level of nit-picking but these are certainly not major gripes.
Let's get those minor negatives out of the way. It's overly long. A lot of it is setting that great atmosphere but it overdoes it. Secondly the ending doesn't reach any great conclusion leaving the viewer somewhat frustrated. The third point being the lead character is a replicant and shows little to no emotion, at least at the start and middle of the film. It's hard to empathise with an emotionless character and care about them. I said three points but I'll raise a fourth, though it didn't bother me being a bloke, but I'm sure more than a few women will find this film misogynistic. A large percentage of the women are portrayed as boys toys.
The pros. As said it's a visual masterpiece and a wonderfully atmospheric setting. It ties in nicely with the first Blade Runner and is a worthy sequel. Will it reach the cult status owned by the first - only time will tell. I suspect not as few films ever do but this is certainly worthy of bearing the name of the first and highly recommended. Just exercise some judgement if taking a female friend to see it.