Very descent indeed

Rating: 8/10 (28 October 2017)

As die-hard blade runner fan (I was blown away when it was in the theaters) I of course had to see this movie. However I admit I did not expect too much from it. The trailers were to me uninspiring and critics reviews I read also not too positive. So I prepared myself for a long, but not too exciting, sit. I was pleasantly surprised however. The movie managed to capture me from the start and kept my attention. It has an interesting story line with some nice surprises in the plot, which of course I will not give away. But also some holes in it like how did K know when/where Deckard would be moved?
Now I also directly admit it can't compete with the original Blade Runner. It is a very descent sequel, absolutely, but it lacks the more almost claustrophobic and tense atmosphere from the original. Specially the scene's where Deckard is on the crowded streets (The Zhora chase is stunning) are dearly missed in this movie. It has more distance, it is cleaner, less detailed. Compare the apartment of Deckard with K's, The office of Tyrell with that of Wallace, the office of Bryant to that of Joshi, etc. Basically that sums it up when it comes to atmosphere. Together with the soundtrack which is less intense BR 2049 simply can't match up, though good as it is.
It is absolute fun to recognize the sometimes hidden references to the original. Some music notes that it based upon/or edited from the original, some scenes, The fact that a dutch actress plays the bad "guy" in this case, hooker Mariette who clearly resembles Priss, etc.
Again we see a movie that is not valued for the high quality it has, but this time I do not expect a cult status. It is in the details.