Blade Runner 2049 proves that good things really do come to those who wait.

Rating: 9/10 (27 February 2018)

35 years since Ridley Scott's Blade Runner was released and slowly but surely a fan base was building. A cult following with many stating it is the best sci-fi film ever created. How do you beat that? You bring in Denis Villeneuve, Roger Deakins and Hans Zimmer. Unsurprisingly, this was aimed directly for me. A narrative constructed from visual storytelling. Seamless realistic futuristic effects. Thought provoking themes on humanity, memories and creationism. A script where every scene of dialogue is palpable. Direction so flawless that my eyes started to bleed and my mind melted. Is it perfect? No. But when a blockbuster doesn't bow to Hollywood's typical action traits, it's just refreshing to watch. Where thrills aren't created by mindless explosions, but actually through the meaning behind the words. There is so much substance in every scene, meticulously woven into a narrative that questions what it means to be human. I was entranced. Hypnotised in fact, clinging onto every word spoken. Roger Deakins' cinematography is absolutely gorgeous. Sci-fi rarely looks this beautiful. The colour palette used for certain chapters was truly a work of art, and if he doesn't receive that Oscar...heads will roll. Denis Villeneuve's direction was perfect yet again. He has yet to put a foot wrong. In my eyes, it didn't surpass Prisoners or Arrival but still incredible in a filmography that many directors can only dream of acquiring. Hans Zimmer's electronic synthesised soundtrack felt absurdly natural and fitting. Like one long soundscape that assisted in creating the industrial city scape of 2049 Los Angeles. Acting was solid all round, monotonous yet beneath the surface I could see so much emotion just wanting to burst out. I did find the ending anti-climactic and some of the supporting cast members were wasted. However, a carefully constructed sequel that, in my opinion, surpasses its predecessor. I warn that it's not for everyone. Moves at a glacial pace.