All the courage in the world cannot alter fact

Rating: 10/10 (23 November 2019)

Blade Runner 2049 is a pleasure to watch.
I was extremely skeptical when this movie was announced. Blade Runner (1982) was one of my favorite movies, the cinematography, the soundtrack and the broader themes transcended the underwhelming writing. But this is not the time to review the original. I was worried that this would simply be another soft reboot, I was prepared to walk away from this movie if it was simply another repeat, or disgrace to the original. However, to my surprise a great amount of care was put into imagery, I was pleased to see the use of physical models and analogue technology in an era where every sci fi movie feels the need to have "smart tech" holograms and rely solely on CGI and fruitlessly fail at creating a believable world. I was also pleased to see the action was not overplayed, in an era where film makers apparently rely on action to keep the viewer in the seats, regardless of its plot significance, this film understands that developing characters is more interesting than constant explosions.
2049 achieves the immersion of the original, with its rich detailed world which informs the viewer to the world purely through visuals. The score is a different style than the original, and another aspect I was worried about. Thankfully Zimmer keeps the iconic french horns out, in favor of a brilliant combination of classic and modern synth. The harsh brutalist tones work brilliantly with the environment, and the lighter ethereal notes accent the more human elements. Leitmotifs reminiscent of Vangelis are also found throughout the score, a callback to the original and are surprisingly well blended. Overall this movie maintains the worldbuilding and immersion elements of its predecessor, which is no small task.
The storytelling of this movie is a contested point. Personally I feel it surpasses or matches the original in every aspect. The development of K, his motivations, and his weaknesses are all developed in 2049, which are lacking with Deckard in the original. The development of the supporting characters in 2049 surpass all of those in the original with the exception of Roy Batty. This is likely why this film, while polarizing, has achieved the positive reputation it has. As far as acting goes, once again it equals or surpasses on all levels except the original with that exception being Rutger Hauer as Roy Batty. The acting of Gosling as the lead, and all the others supporting him works well to sell the environment being portrayed.
The movie suffers from two major flaws: it received little to no attention, and its title. Many believe this film disrespects the original, and I can understand their point, even if I disagree. The movie does largely distance itself from the original, enough to make it work for anyone who has not seen the original. However there are several connections which are plot specific, and would make more sense to someone who has seen the original. The fact this is a movie in the Blade Runner continuity, and not a modern rendering has caused some to discredit its originality. Yes it is true that many movies being made rely solely on brand recognition to make a profit, but Blade Runner has never been profitable. Blade Runner was a box office bomb, and having been one of eight people in the theater during Blade Runner 2049's release in theaters, I can say first hand that it was a financial failure. Despite the economic failure, it is a cinematic gem.
With so many saying this movie didn't need to be made, I have to agree. But I am glad it was made, for I thoroughly and honestly enjoyed it. Nostalgia aside, it surpasses the original in many ways. As a Blade Runner film, it is still not easily accessed by a mainstream audience, but to anyone interested in film as an artform, 2049 is a brilliant experience.
Overall score 98/100