Blade Runner 2049 (2017) Movie Review

Official Blade Runner 2049 Poster

The original Blade Runner film, back in 1982, inspired a lot of the sci-fi elements considered common today, picturing a dystopian future for mankind. Its vast influence can still be felt in the present-day. Flash forward to 2017 and it is time for Denis Villeneuve’s take on the Blade Runner world. There was a myriad of ways Blade Runner 2049 could have gone wrong.

Still of Ryan Gosling and Sylvia Hoeks

If the studio had decided to implement those big signature action set-pieces of today’s blockbusters or force a set-up of multiple sequels down the road, the film would lose its identity and thus, be a Blade Runner film only because of its title. On the other hand, had the film stayed too close to the original, without generating new and exciting premises for the plot to revolve around with, Blade Runner 2049 would end up simply being a rehash of its predecessor, living in its everlasting shadow of impact.

Amazing shot showcasing futuristic marketing, with Ana de Armas and Ryan Gosling

Thankfully, the film does not play it safe and finds the ideal line of utter perfection, never crossing that threshold. Although a sequel, 2049 pays homage to the original and builds upon it. Stepping over its shoulders, the new film manages to capture the essence of the 1982 venture and, at the same time, evolve and develop its own ideas, spreading revitalized branches of storytelling across the Blade Runner universe.

Where do you think K is headed now?

Denis Villeneuve, the director, continues to prove himself as one of the masters of this generation, when it comes to crafting high quality filmmaking and elevating it to its rawest, truest and most deserved form: a groundbreaking and awe-inspiring piece of pure art. Blade Runner 2049 is dripping with powerful and striking imagery; if you had the chance to pause the film at any time you may deem necessary, you would get a stunning still, worthy of becoming a poster, for instance.

The green makes for great contrast with the rest of the film's colours

2049 is remarkably well shot, with out of this world cinematography, courtesy of Roger Deakins (he treats his films like canvas and it shows). The frame is ingeniously composed, taking advantage of light manipulation, showcasing different points of perspective and incorporating geometry innuendos consistently throughout, which ultimately makes the movie a feast for the eye. This breathtaking imagery is accompanied by a powerful soundtrack that is faithful to the original’s musical core.

Still of Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford

The sound design is top notch and, it not only manages to augment the stakes as it also increases the emotional response from the audience to what is happening on screen. The screenplay is thought-provoking, creating a solid three-act narrative that logically flows. Blade Runner 2049 is blessed with a strong cast. The actors outstandingly up the ante, bringing their characters to life in the most fleshed out way possible.

Still of Jared Leto as Niander Wallace

Ryan Gosling is great as K and Harrison Ford ends up delivering one of his best performances in recent years (his Deckard is now filled with even more layers of background). Jared Leto makes quite the comeback to the silver screen, after a dubious performance as Joker in last year’s Suicide Squad. Dave Bautista continues to surprise me with his acting range and Robin Wright is solid.  Ana de Armas and Sylvia Hoeks were actually surprisingly good, with both being integral to the plot.

Visually stunning capture with Harrison Ford and Ryan Gosling

Speaking of the plot, I will not spoil anything; the best way to experience Blade Runner 2049 is going to theatre whilst knowing as little as possible. The trailer is more than enough and believe me, a plethora of surprises awaits you. Although Blade Runner 2049 resolves a handful of questions, it ends up leaving its audience with brand new ones, in an intriguing and captivating way.

Still of Dave Bautista as Sapper Morton

Please keep in mind that you do not need to have seen the first one prior to 2049. Nevertheless, I highly recommend you to, in order to be able to enjoy this state-of-the-art masterpiece and never once feel lost, like tears in rain. You may feel frightened by its monumental running time, with Blade Runner 2049 clocking in at 163 minutes, but fear not, you will feel hooked on it since the opening crawl.

What could possibly exist on the brink of this junkyard?

This is the type of film that will leave you theorizing and discussing it with your friends. It is pure cinematic genius and I firmly believe it will score a bunch of Oscar nominations this year (at least it should!). With that being said, I give this movie an A+. What about you? Have you seen Blade Runner 2049? Jump into the comments’ section down below and share your thoughts.