Warner Bros. and Alcon Entertainment have kept the sci-fi sequelBlade Runner 2049underincrediblytight wraps all the way up to its release, but the film is now finally out in theaters, meaning all the secrets have been laid bare. After seeing the film it’s even more impressive how tightly the studios were able to keep the movie’s secrets under wraps. It’s true, the veryplotofBlade Runner 2049is a spoiler, and by some miracle the nature of K was never revealed. It’s a testament to the marketing team that they were able to craft such lush, intriguing trailers while steering clear of all of this.
But now we know, and boy isBlade Runner 2049a sight to behold. DirectorDenis Villeneuvedoes a tremendous job of maintaining the pacing and atmosphere of the firstBlade Runnerso that this feels like a continuation of that story, but he brings enough new to the table that this feels far from a retread. Indeed, this is one of those legacy sequels that offers new revelations about old characters while having new characters take center stage, and the screenplay byHampton FancherandMichael Greenis packed full of surprises that really shouldn’t work, but totally do.
Ryan Goslingis the heart and soul of this thing as K, and the film follows something of a Pinocchio story with regards to his character. The revelation that heisn’ta “special boy” makes his decision to save Deckard and reunite the family all the more impactful—he’s making a choice not out of obligation or hope for reward, but because it’s the right thing to do. Of course he’s also colored by his love for Joi (Ana de Armas), which is another delicate touch that works beautifully. And then there’sHarrison Ford, giving a flat-out great performance with limited screentime. When the guy cares, and when he’s given a good character, he can knock it out of the park. And this is all to say nothing of the tremendous craftsmanship on display, fromRoger Deakins’ jaw-dropping cinematography to the pulsing, surprisingly emotional score byHans ZimmerandBenjamin Wallfisch.
But enough of my rambling.Matt’s review is on the site, but we now want to know what you think, readers. How do you feel aboutBlade Runner 2049? What are your thoughts on the twists and turns? Is it truly a better film than the originalBlade Runner? Sound off in the comments below.
And if you missed them, here’s some of our post-release content on the film:
