Probably one of the absolute best sequels in recent years and one of the best films of 2017.

Rating: 9/10 (9 January 2018)

With the original "Blade Runner" (Final Cut) from Ridley Scott being one of my absolute favourite films of all time, I was really happy to see a sequel being made, especially with such names as Denis Villeneuve, Roger Deakins and Ryan Gosling attached to it as well as Ridley Scott, Hampton Fancher and Harrison Ford returning from the first film. Even though I tried not to get too hyped for
this sequel, there was just something so exciting about seeing a new "Blade Runner" film in the cinema and I'm extremely relieved to say that this film is didn't disappoint at all. What Villeneuve and the rest of the crew have pulled off here is nothing short of brilliant. This is possibly one of the best looking films I have ever seen, there were so many jaw-droppingly good shots, that I lost count at some point. From the long takes to the amazing wide-angle shots, lighting and colours, "Blade Runner 2049" successfully recaptures the look, tone and feel of the original. It really feels like it's in the same fascinating world that Ridley Scott created over 35 years ago. That's not the only aspect of the film that
triumphs, though. The plot (which I will not spoil) is extremely intriguing and keeps you guessing and despite a few flashbacks (audio and visual)
that serve to explain why a certain character is shocked by some sort of discovery, the film really wants you to put your thinking cap on, especially when the script turns a bit more philosophical like in the original. Also, the cast does a terrific
job, Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford work extremely well together even if their characters don't see eye to eye and the supporting cast including Ana de Armas, Sylvia Hoeks, Jared Leto and Robin Wright all do a fantastic job, too. The film clocks in at 164 minutes and although that seems like it would be too long, the pacing is absolutely excellent, there were no scenes that dragged (for me) and I was not bored at all. The score by one of my all time favourite composers Hans Zimmer and frequent collaborator Benjamin Wallfisch doesn't quite surpass the magnificent work of Vangelis from the original, but succeeds in reimagining it with all the synthy goodness you'd hope for. Overall, I think "Blade Runner 2049" is a brilliant accomplishment, it's a technical masterpiece, the plot, acting, action, pacing and score are great, it's successful in capturing the original's
look, feel and tone and doesn't tarnish the 1982 masterpiece in any way. It may have some small story issues and the run time and pacing may not
be so appealing to some, but there's no denying it's probably one of the best sequels to come out in recent years and maybe of all time. I didn't think a sequel to a film like "Blade Runner" could turn out this good, but Denis Villeneuve has proven himself worthy of such a difficult task, while also making it clear that he is one the best directors working today. I am truly impressed with
"Blade Runner 2049".