Review of Blade Runner 2049 (2017) by Darth V — 31 Mar 2018

Watching this film, one realizes how many simply crap movies there are out there, particularly in sci-fi. It is so well-crafted, with obvious attention to so much detail -- the production design and sets, cinematography and images, judicious and effective use of CGI, a good script, well cast -- not to mention all those bonuses we too often don't get in film, like exploration of themes and symbolism.

(One of the few issues I have is that some of the fight sequences feel too "Hollywood," and not keeping enough with the gritty realism of the world it portrays. It could've taken a cue from "Children of Men" for that instead.

But more importantly, I question uses of female nudity, often in a sexually suggestive way, that I can only see as a bit of gratuitous. While some is used in part to help contribute to and convey ideas of a culture both past and present that is dysfunctional, corrupt, overly lascivious and sexist, at times I do not see how it all fits into the overall story and themes. And why only such images of women? Is this dystopian future devoid of men (or artificial men) being used as sexual objects? It seems to play too much into tired and sexist movie tropes of women being on display for male audience members (I'd be lying if I didn't acknowledge my own puerile and visceral reaction as a heterosexual male. But I ask: for what purpose are the creators trying to elicit that reaction, in an otherwise serious, thoughtful film?) More troublesome in particular is the juxtaposition between that of female nudity and/or sexual suggestiveness, alongside that of violence, which is all too common and pervasive in film and TV, and I find deeply disturbing.).

A worthy sequel, it is almost essential to see the original in order to appreciate this film fully. (Just make very certain you see the "Final Cut" and NOT the original theatrical!) Recommended, especially for genre fans.