Blade Runner 2049 enriches the original with stunning cinematography

Movie Title: Blade Runner 2049

Grade: A-

Rating: R, 164 minutes

In a Nutshell: This is a LONG movie. If you’re a big fan of the 1982 original Blade Runner, you’ll probably love every minute, while admittedly, it’s not everyone’s cup of futuristic tea.

This visually stunning sequel was a long time in coming and I’m thrilled that Harrison Ford was able to be in it so we can revisit his character.

You don’t have to see the original Blade Runner movie first, but it sure helps. While this film stands alone in an impressive way, it also deepens and expands the original. It’s a science-fiction masterpiece that has director Denis Villeneuve earning the praise he deserves.

Uplifting theme:

What makes a man? What is humanity?
Life….the value of life, the meaning of life.

Things I liked:

You had me at Ryan Gosling. When he touched a piano key, I kind of hoped he’d start singing City Of Stars (From “La La Land” Soundtrack) ha ha
Ana de Armas is just fun to look at. I loved her scenes with Ryan Gosling.
Robin Wright sure has come a long way since The Princess Bride (one of my all-time faves.)
They did an amazing job with creating a new world and time.
The cinematography by Roger Deakins is outstanding. Some say it’s the best of his career and worthy of an Oscar.
The sound is impressive, but sometimes annoying.
There are many surprises, which makes movie-going so much fun.

Things I didn’t like:

Everything is so dusty! ha ha
Some of the frames are just so long and drawn out and slow-moving. Did I say the same thing three times?
There are a lot of scenes where people sit, think, and stare.
Lots of monologues.
It takes forever to be rewarded with scenes that include both Harrison Ford and Ryan Gosling.
You kind of have to watch both films more than once to really understand it. I readily admit I don’t get it all.

Tips for parents:

Kids may be confused with what’s happening and get bored. Watching the movie requires a certain amount of patience.
Violence.
Some gory, bloody scenes.
Full female nudity.
Prostitute action.
Some profanity.