A masterpiece and a neon dream come true

Rating: Null/10 (7 October 2017)

Back in the '90s, I remember rumours of Ridley Scott planning a Blade Runner sequel with Schwarzenegger. Thankfully, largely due to rights issues around the first film (and the fact that any sequel would be a box office gamble), the follow-up took just a mere 35 years to hit the silver screen.
During the last three and a half decades, Blade Runner has become not just a cult classic but hailed as a cinematic masterpiece. Fans of the original were deeply sceptical that a sequel would measure up to the original and come close to satisfying the audience.
And then the constellations lined up. Denis Villeneuve took the director reins with Scott in the role of Executive Producer; Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford were confirmed; and a smorgasbord of talent was drawn to the project.
Blade Runner 2049 is a success because it doesn't try to be a carbon copy of the original. The movie is loyal to its predecessor but carves its own path in this futuristic and bleak universe, adding new layers to the philosophical questions and nuances of the 1982 movie.
With Roger Deakins behind the camera, the film is absolutely stunning. The screen is a canvas that Villeneuve uses to hypnotise the viewer. At the same time, Hans Zimmer's music assaults the audible senses, somehow managing to catch Vangelis' spirit whilst keeping the soundtrack fresh and modern.
Gosling is as watchable as ever. In fact, more so. There are subtleties in his performance that are exquisite. Every single member of the cast are on top form, bringing their A-game to the party. And, finally, we have the icing on the cake. The gravel voiced, granite faced Harrison Ford delivers his best performance in years. Deckard is well and truly back.
I love this film. I want to watch it again, and again. There are many layers to be explored, this is a true detective story. Just brilliant.