In Search of the Distinctively Human | The Philosophy of Blade Runner 2049

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A video essay diving into the philosophy of Blade Runner 2049 in search of the distinctively human.
Sources:
Ernest Becker - The Birth and Death of Meaning amzn.to/2ElfnNp
Viktor Frankl - Man’s Search for Meaning amzn.to/2DKTxlp
Soundtrack
1. California, 2049
2. Do you feel what I feel?
3. His first secret
4. One Man Stands in her way
5. Tears of Luv
To listen to the individual tracks, check out this playlist: goo.gl/HvD8Xi
Music composed by Whitesand: / @whitesandcomposer
Additional narration provided by Grace from What’s So Great About That?: / @whatssogreataboutthat

[@LikeStoriesofOld]

Big thanks to Whitesand for composing an original score for this video! I had such a great time collaborating with him and I think it resulted in something truly special. If you want to listen to this video’s soundtrack or explore more fantastic music, be sure to have a look at his channel: kzbin.info/door/e96JG5gdgSRtmqStx0isXA

[@WhitesandComposer]

Yes, this was trully something special. Amazing work!

[@CabezasDePescado]

huh, you know the human soul is real and not a human construct right? awesome video btw, but that part is wrong lol

[@Strugen.]

If you stuck a new born in a cage & just fed them never let them out, never communicated with them until they were an adult, would you say they have a soul? They would just be like any other animal on the planet, having a soul is something you learn but more importantly something you earn

[@OverTheTopLive]

I think your confused with conscious or cognitive functions. Are you saying soul is human behavior or action? A human born in isolation would still be human with soul but his behavior would be considered abnormal because he has never learn set human normal behavior. Behavior is learned and being accepted by society is earned. I cannot respond to what is being represented in this video because I have not watched the film. Therefore, I will come back and watch this video later. I came here by recommendation from the score writer Martynas.

[@Strugen.]

Basically I'm saying if you aren't taught & brought up in human culture you would not even be aware of a soul, I'm not trying to devalue it, it is one of the important things that makes us human

[@indfnt5590]

“Two souls, dreadfully distinct. Perishing in clashing dreams of being interlinked.” Wow

[@miasw1030]

ngl this sentence makes me burst into tears

[@kybernetic8]

Never thought of the film's ending like this. I always thought of K as the righteous one. Is that just an assumption on the viewer's part? We never got to truly know Luv's inner self, and I never even thought of that. As she clearly showed lots of evidence of being 'dreadfully distinct', even more so than K, and much earlier on. Like Stories of Old just made this film even more unbearably and overwhelmingly tragic when looking at the ending in this light. I'm stunned.

[@jayceegee258]

The baseline test scenes are definitely my favorite of the film

[@willardlarkinsnow5622]

I had to write this line down so I could look at it. Pure poetry. I’m gonna go cry now

[@yt-sh]

Or what you call Star crossed Lovers

[@fergin4979]

Something of note: in the screenplay its revealed that “Luv” is just a pet name jared letos character uses, but Luv adopted it as her personal name. He did not give her a name, but she wanted one

[@TheHarryPotters]

Whaaaat

[@bayonetta9395]

Damnn

[@chabbytreemechanic1731]

Lux seeking more from her maker, who also called her, the best angel

[@venn7eance925]

She wants to be recognised as more than just a tool, a replicant. Her displays of emotion would suggest she has transcended beyond being simply a replicant but more. To me this is a tragedy, because not only is this kept secret by her from Wallace but it is also not even explored by the movie itself. She is merely another tool in the story to move it forward, yet there is so much more to her.

[@TheBoxingCannabyte]

oh cool! thanks for sharing that info. This is one of my favorite films and i think criminally underrated.

[@mattyice9535]

"If nothing we do matters, then all that matters is what we choose to do."

[@wildsmiley]

So said a vampire with a soul.

[@Nautilus1972]

... .which doesn't matter .... it's self-contradictory nonsense.

[@wildsmiley]

Nautilus1972 Not quite. If nothing we do matters, then we could either do nothing or choose to do something, even if it’s ultimately a fruitless endeavor. We define ourselves by what we do.

[@mattyice9535]

@@wildsmiley "Who I am, is where I stand. Where I stand......is where I fall."

[@chestermandelbrot6903]

Yep! And no matter where you go, there you are.

[@alfiasco2521]

I already love this movie but this video essay just made me truly realize the craftsmanship of the film. It’s unfortunate the movie wasn’t a hit but I rather the true fans respect it for what it is....... A heartfelt sequel with true meaning behind it and not a cash grab

[@patrickniggli9686]

Denis villeneuve makes it possible

[@MrChoklad]

the first movie was also not a huge success when it came out, but it quickly became a cult in the genre. I feel like 2049 will have a similar destiny, not a box office hit but a movie that won't be forgotten and will still be enjoyed in the years to come

[@danlyday7248]

@@MrChoklad absolute facts

[@thenoisyninja]

It wasnt made for money as many sequels are. It was made as an invitation back into the world of Blade Runner. I cherish it

[@HungL0W]

The craftsmanship of this video

[@colhero]

Really liked your closing statement "Two souls, dreadfully distinct. Perishing in clashing dreams - of being interlinked"

[@CharlesVeitch]

Its beautiful

[@projecthakha1899]

Wow well said

[@sabatheus]

And that is one of the most bitter-sweet aspects of life--unrequited love. But in the end, it doesn't matter who loves you, it matters who and what you love. Because that is your life. That is your journey.

[@serijas737]

Well said friend, who said that?

[@kybernetic8]

Pure tragic and deeply ironic poetry

[@WhatsSoGreatAboutThat]

Never seen a video essay with an original score before, it really adds another level to the experience. Amazing work!

[@shawnl4073]

Never retired something that was born before.

[@TheAufziehvogel]

Plus, in the whole movie a track like that one wasn't missing. Blade Runner 2049 had many great moments, the soundtrack, while far from bad or annoying, isn't one of them. I will not even start to compare with Vangelis here, but something is definitely missing. Also Zimmer is capable of doing emotional stuff. Great video by the way, I subscribed.

[@GravisTKD]

MonsieurAufziehvogel wait -- a track like that wasn't missing or *was* missing? I'm confused at what you're trying to say here.

[@Karl_Marksman]

Yeah it's got my eyes all.. nah it's just the dust man, I had some pepper for lunch it must have.., yeah I'm allergic to good content *snif*

[@JaydevRaol]

True!

[@JackJames2612]

I've grown sick of the over-saturated video-essay genre on KZbin. It just all seems to banal and repetitive, churning out the same ideas. THEN this randomly popped up for me. So glad I clicked it. Best thing I've watched in a long time.

[@warriorshedge6772]

A sign you need to stop being a down right lo*er.. You accumulate too much information which is destroying your curiosity. Get off the device

[@JedediahTombstone]

Saw this movie after a big breakup and a strong bout of depression and substance abuse. Sobered up and walked myself to the theater, saw it, and those hours changed my life. Bought "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep" and "Pale Fire" the day after, read them both in 3 days.

[@what2903]

I know it’s been a year, but hope you’re doing well. I’m rooting for you.

[@fyodor4436]

Rooting for u too my guy!

[@BinMuraTTV]

Interlinked🖤

[@RedGaming44]

Such an amazing movie. I’m going through heavy depression and a breakup that was brought on because of my general depression. Just a terrible time I can’t see myself getting through but I hope I will. I hope that you got better too! May watch this movie again this week to help with my recovery, just seeing this on KZbin did make me feel slightly better. It’s a beautiful film.

[@TheBoxingCannabyte]

Damn bro way to go! I had a similar experience (quit heroin and fent a fter being cut off from 50% of my meds practically overnight due to some weird federal shit that was enacted during Orange Man's administration). My girl tried sooooo hard, we are still very close, like family, but she was dealing with sexual stuff, identifying as non-binary and dealing with feelings of being more attracted to women. We love each other still but at the initial outting it was horrible, i had gotten clean and kept joking a fear that now that I'm clean she will leave v(before I knew their feelings, still struggling with the they/them proonouns just because they wer emy queen and "she/her" for the 7 years we were together, etc.) I was broken as broken can be, suffering very severe injuries, in incredible amounts of pain and the cinamatogrpahy and story of this took me away for while and made me re-question issues about transhumanism, dystopic futures, my love of the cyberpunk aesthetic....etc. PS: If you haven't read "Snow Crash" I think you'd likely really, really enjoy it if you like stuff like this, anyone reading this should check it out :) PPS: Much love and peace to everyone, i wish you all the best, an eye-for-an-eye doesn't make an android cry, but for humans who have needs, a heart-open is what feeds! (shitty improv autistic-person poem)

[@DownButNotOutYet]

Life is a series of moments, interlinked, only to be lost, like tears in rain.

[@michaeljamieson3582]

Interlinked

[@bigjuicefolife]

Well said mate.

[@guitarman0365]

we're all cells within cells

[@luisaguilar7997]

Dangerously close to the myth of Sisyphus’ closing lines...

[@Zamalshkay]

Ty god for the rain..

[@Simple1DEA]

I wish I could watch movies the way this man watches movies

[@joeking6972]

Lol dude you have no idea how many times he’s watched this film and researched it before grasping the depth he has.

[@mickydee896]

dont forget alot of his opinions are formed from every other blade runner video on youtube, he has probably seens it 20 plus times and spent along time making this video.

[@mikehuntburns9753]

@@mickydee896 He reads alot, which is why he references lots of different philosophies and elaborates on the source. Doesn't mean he watches videos of other people. Not so hard to see that.

[@mickydee896]

@@mikehuntburns9753 yes because he reads alot means his opinions aren't also informed by what he has seen and heard

[@mickydee896]

@@mikehuntburns9753 i also never said it was hard to believe, i said he spent a long time making this, what are you even talking about

[@CharlesVeitch]

This is your greatest video. This should be compulsory in universities

[@Umilenya]

Utopia must prevail!

[@musicwasmade]

Thanks for writing what I came here to write. This is poetry. A great way to introduce someone to new thoughts and ideas, they missed out on before.

[@djobjet]

Given how universities are going, that seems about right

[@ratsofftoya]

This is probably the best film analysis I've ever seen, watching this opened up new doors to understanding a film I cherish so much. I didn't even considered Luv to be this distinct until seeing this. I always just considered her the obstacle in K's quest to realize his own humanity and importance in the world. How you described Luv's inner self, her "soul", just made me appreciate her as much as K, Deckard, Rachel, and Roy Batty. After watching the film immediately after this, it's so evidently clear she views herself of great importance, that Replicants are truly more human than Humans, but wasn't presented to the audience just to patronize them. The way she is emotionally moved by the "birth" of the replicant at Wallace HQ, immediately followed by her horror and disgust for Wallace as he eviscerates the new model, all while she hides it from him so he doesn't kill her for being imperfect . The killing of the mortician at LAPD HQ just by tapping the base of his spine showing just how much power a replicant has over a regular, born human. The rescuing of K from the scrappers in San Diego so he may find the child and bring them to her safely. The utter contempt and hatred of humans she subtly reveals to Lieutenant Joshi, revealing that the new, "obedient" line of replicants can in fact lie and disobey before killing her. The hesitation she has of killing the new Rachel replicant offered to Deckard on the orders of Wallace. And lastly, the desperation and frustration and anger she has for K (a replicant that she has shown sexual attraction to throughout the film) as he drowns her, stopping her from becoming a messiah for her own kind and striking back at her creator, followed by a look of relief on her corpse. These moments paint a picture of a character, who I thought of nothing as a henchman for Wallace and just a hinderance for K before, as the second most integral person in the themes of the film, a slave wishing to free her own people, a woman in a predominately misogynistic culture wanting to be more than the "perfect angel" of a man with a god complex that controls her existance, someone who secretly sees themself as a savior and violently fights for her kin only for her dreams to be drowned with her. It's so fantastically brilliant. I sincerely hope Ridley Scott does not make a followup to this film, about a confrontation between humans and replicants. I think Villeneuv (I'm not sure how to spell his name) made a perfect sequel that wraps up the story of this universe in a beautifully ambiguos, bittersweet, but hopeful ending. I would hate to see a film along the likes of the new Alien prequels be made and tarnish what Blade Runner and Blade Runner 2049 has accomplished.

[@alanparsonsfan]

@Michael Cheatham Sir, this is very well written. I had not noticed Luv being attracted to K. As to further BR movies: Anything not made by Villeneueve would be a step down.

[@Chiefof-xy3ec]

Very well said. You've got a good head on your shoulders. I respectfully disagree about the world (even in their universe) being predominantly mysogynistic though.

[@venn7eance925]

I thought it was just me, but Marian seems to get what I was thinking about Luv also...

[@luizcarloscampos1557]

Perfeita a sua análise e sua colocação. Parabéns pelo seu discernimento em relação ao filme. Estou escrevendo no idioma português. Eu não falo inglês.

[@nym5qu17]

@@Chiefof-xy3ec It's a late stage necrocaptialist, globalized, unethical society that has had unimpeded technological advancement to the point that the eco system entirely collapsed. How on earthy would a moral-less society that lets capitalism continue to fester uninhibited somehow solve sexism while every other problem they face gets exponentially worse?

[@vicenteortegarubilar9418]

Is not a blade runner film if is not underrated after release. Truly sad that the film wasn't more succesful, but it was really great. Nice video essay.

[@Dangus35]

Well if it is any consolation, everyone who did see it saw its greatness. The Director and the Studio know it was a damn good film, just tanked at the box office because most people really don't give a shit about artistic movies. I

[@solodolotrevino]

Dan Brown most people aren’t really cinephiles, just blockbuster fans Edit: spelling

[@lencelena2796]

This applies to games, too. The more the complex the story, less people will play it. The more generic and mainstream the game is, the more it appeals to the masses. It's sad, really

[@williamjennings877]

I heard the Director hates it

[@danylokoval6922]

You know, there is more to it here that mere "smartness" or knowledge. It is an intuitive feeling of something touching you, the thing that pushes you to discover more of it even if you haven't understood it fully. This is the way of art - to encourage to know about the world. And BR2049 works well here. I couldn't claim I understood most of its themes, but i've got a few clues and even this was enough to amaze me. This is such a waterwall of a film.

[@davehildebrandt6521]

Wow, now I see Luv in a whole new light. Need to rewatch the movie.

[@_danisson]

Luv was a great character.

[@aznrhmn]

I love Luv. So deep on hiding her inner self

[@timhenley3602]

Luv was, and still is annoying.

[@tonyjoseph5197]

The actor portrayed luv wonderfully. I adored her death .

[@bustercall5744]

I cried during the seeing of this in the cinema, I sat and waited till the credits ending. Shaking and felt totally ripped open. It was something that hit me hard. K wanted to be important. He wanted to be higher than the simple matter he was told he was. And I saw myself in him in his consumer world, the void of his buried emotions bursting out of the ground...I hope someone else felt the way I did.

[@NetralFN]

"he's literally me"

[@mvpuz1]

"And so the parts of ourselves that we value the most - our dreams, thoughts, and inner feelings - become the parts we're least able to communicate." This was incredibly well done. A worthy analysis to, in my estimation, a masterpiece of a movie. Thank you.

[@brianseymour5191]

I remember exiting the theater after finishing 2049, literally trying to balance myself against a wall. I felt exhausted and at a complete loss for words, as if I had been put through an intense exercise regime, well, my mind in this case. This is more than just a sci-fi movie, it is a phenomenon of cinema, the likes of which only a small handful of films have even come close to being seen as equal. I would recommend it to anyone, young or old, as a film that one should see at least once in their lifetime.

[@NEUR0MANCER_]

I had almost the same kind of feel, but felt cathartic, like I had just woken up from a dream I wanted to see my entire life. I saw Blade runner when I was in my preteens. Since then I had been obsessed with retro futurism, and futurism in general. I had wishes of what Id want to see in a blade runner sequel if it ever got made and after I saw Drive I always thought, if they ever remade blade runner, gosling should be in the role, hell he should headline Star wars as well. But Blade runner is better than star wars in every way. Its deeper, better quality, and even the OT takes influence in empire and rotj from the original blade runner. But this is what I always wanted to see, and after seeing it, I was left with a feeling of seeing myself as someone whos looking for deeper meaning in life, and Blade runner kind of mirrors the way I feel walking through the world. So after seeing it, I was so happy I sat there reveling in the experience of Blade runner, and yes it didn't make as much as a marvel movie, but it did make back its budget plus an extra hundred million. And every one thought BR was done to. So I have faith we will see this story continue one day. Theres a comic line coming out, support it and maybe with good sales it will trigger ridley scott into financing part 3!

[@kirillg5048]

Brian Seymour truly brother , it's great that there is people who saw what I saw ,felt what I felt .

[@spencerhamblen6182]

I rewatch this film at least once a month . Literally a beautiful master piece

[@lastword8783]

Brian Seymour i loved it too but im trying to imagine you "being exhausted and literally trying to balance yourself against a wall" it makes me cringe and then laugh :P

[@robertlasern939]

I felt that same. Days afterwards I found myself writing about the characters and symbolism of the film.like how that tree is the tree of life.the flying car in the water at the end is like a womb

[@Jarnagua]

This is a youtube masterpiece.

[@rodrigojorgec]

100% agree

[@RizztrainingOrder]

All of his videos are.

[@thebetterlemonjello]

Really. When you have kids you hope they grow up to do more with their time than posting youtube videos about pop culture. But if my kid made this I would be so proud of them.

[@RizztrainingOrder]

@thebetterlemonjello ? Don't know where your wish for your kid to make videos applies but we were simply in agreement that this Creator is extremely well versed in literature, and relates the material to his audience very well. Articulate, insightful, infinitely interesting.

[@thebetterlemonjello]

@@RizztrainingOrder Exactly

[@ThePhDSpanish]

This was such a great movie. A real shame that David Bowie passed away before he could film his scenes. Leto did alright but I think Bowie would have done a great job of being casually cruel, totally aloof from the human experience

[@hollandscottthomas]

Having this be Bowie's final cinematic role would have made the film perfect.

[@Arrogan28]

Dude, you are a breath of intellectual healing each time I see your videos. You not only share what in so much of my life is not said, you do it with a clarity I am in awe of. Thank-you for this work you do. Seriously. Thank-you for this sanctuary from so much insanity out there.

[@theblackwheelbarrow1562]

Probably my favourite film of all time, I'm serious.

[@serbancapraru8559]

You know nothing, Jon Snow.

[@jiggajigjones8210]

serban capraru haha.

[@adrianirimescu988]

serban capraru I think he knows better than us all what his favorite film of all time is.

[@k.c.lejeune6613]

Jon Snow I'm in agreement with you Jon.

[@lulztvit1008]

Same. Really not kidding. I thought annihilation was until I saw this a week ago.

[@Hayseman-zk3do]

My God... This is the best analysis of anything. I don't know your background in education but you seem to be able to expose the core of everything you cover. You need to be seen by more.

[@drinkurprunejuice4007]

It's because he does his research, nothing beats hard work.

[@krp_media3850]

he sounds very dutch

[@Alex-km5rn]

@@krp_media3850 he is :)

[@BaliBriant]

Right? His perspective on Luv blew me away. It adds an incredible level of depth to the story.

[@venusasaboy]

I think it's notable that as Luv looks up at K through the water the lights on the ceiling of the craft seem to give him a halo.

[@HeronKij]

Your analysis of Luv really made me see the entire film in a wholly different light. I audibly said 'Holy Shit' many times while watching this.

[@fishandchips2331]

Same.

[@bencard11]

Trying not to sound overly dramatic, your video transcends the previous limitations of the video essay. What an utterly original and yet perfectly coherent take on the movie. This should be included on the 2049 blu-ray as a requisite accompaniment to the original work. Also, the score is phenomenal-- particularly Tears of Luv at the end.

[@kentvandervelden]

Yes, like Bencard11's comment to begin the petition to include LSoO's commentary. Wonderful idea!

[@SISTER379]

Seconded - I think this is a perfect example of exactly how powerful a tool the "video" (audio-visual) aspect of the 'video-essay' can be if utilised properly. A truly remarkable piece of work. Thank you, LSoO.

[@aznrhmn]

Yes, I am a huge fan of Luv, a tragedy of a replicant.

[@connorstansfield6461]

for real. yes.

[@ogier1]

Wow, this is easily the most passionate Blade Runner tribute ever!

[@rodrigojorgec]

maybe

[@matyoukee799]

This is probably the best youtube video I have ever seen. The use of literature, analysis, editing and score are brilliant. Even brought a tear to my eye at one point. Thank you.

[@neoskies771]

Such a beautiful analysis, made me see things I didn’t even see. Made me realise I was only looking at the surface meaning. I really loved what you said about Luv, how she sees herself as superior and deserving of humanity. Really loved this! Great job!

[@phil0rms]

So many people around me just totally missed even the premises of the film's depth and meaning... Thanks for your work.

[@pistachiodisguisey911]

Puppet Master ME SMART OTHERS DUMB

[@juliopinedo9402]

@@pistachiodisguisey911 Isn't it true though? Likewise were dumber than others, too

[@abaranihei2608]

I love your profile pic :)

[@Imbalanxd]

I see you're trying to seperate yourself from those others. Maybe rewatch the video.

[@Xarkom89]

@@juliopinedo9402 Not really, a lot of the times with movies interpretation is on the viewers point of view. The thing with the common movie goer is that many are not going into movies to deeply analyse them. They just want to be entertained and in the case of 2049 the common viewer will just see replicant who hunts other replicant, saves human.

[@darkerforest]

Is it possible that the best movie I've watched in the last decade just got better?

[@Hayseman-zk3do]

Yeah. The perspective he presents from the final climatic battle makes it so much better.

[@yhurimach]

Finally, someone that also believe this to be the best of the decade.

[@mattblom3990]

I'm 32 years old it's the best movie ever made in my concious lifetime :)

[@dimension9195]

Agree...best film of the decade and one of the best films of the 21st Century so far! A masterpiece and also one of the best sequels of all time...a film way ahead of its time...

[@blunderbuss393]

Not gonna lie. This almost brought me to tears. You have a way with words. God bless you.

[@prabhatdreamz]

I've lost count of how many times I've watched the movie, but every single time it's a different layer that I get to unravel. Your video elevates one's understanding of the movie and its appreciation to a level that, perhaps, most will not reach on their own. Honestly, this video should be mandatory viewing and part of the "Extras" that come bundled with the movie's BluRays and DVDs.

[@rahulandmusic]

The way you explore meanings and layers in films is just so beautiful that everytime I watch one of your essays, it floors me down, makes me humble and most of all touches me in a way that it creates a change. A beautiful beautiful job you do in making these. Thanks for such a gift.

[@Nalot56]

Rahul Anand well said. I concur.

[@wadesiedschlag5095]

Wow. Just watched 2049 for the first time last night. I had glimpses of what Villeneuve was trying to get at but this video ties it in and explains what I felt. The movie itself is a masterpiece.

[@mattblom3990]

Indeed, it is the best movie in 20+ years.

[@truthof7382]

I always seem to focus on plot and individuals. K’s intelligence is necessary for his job, but makes him too self aware for his life. He is a tool to the people he works for and is constantly reminded that if he feels too much, he could be unplugged at a moments notice. The companion he has affection for is a computer and hologram, which he is painfully reminded of when the big purple hair version talks to him. For a brief moment when he thinks he is “the one”, he feel like he is more. Suddenly he has a soul, and is special, only to find out he is a decoy and used again. Having briefly felt what he thought was his parent and child connection he has an understanding of that connection. A memory he wouldn’t have had before and in the end chooses to do something real with it. Something he feels matters. Then smiles and says, “go meet your daughter”.

[@RtB68]

I love things that make me feel...that move me. This moved me. A lot...

[@louisdavies8050]

YES your section on "Luv" is what everyone seems to miss. Inside she clearly loves and is moved by replicants, with the birth scene and her rage at robin wright's character saying she helped "Kill it". Her face at the end after being drowned is one of peace. I wonder what she would have thought of the replicant rebellion?

[@blessingpilot4epps961]

Probably would've fully supported it.

[@superklippy6876]

Thing is Luv clearly would have wanted to wipe out Humanity as she held so much hatred for them, maybe the replicant rebellion would go for a more uniformed approach, try and build a world where both co-exist

[@CrissieTan]

The moment when Decker revealed that Rachel’s eyes were green, Luv’s face says it all without directly speaking. It is one of those moments that made me love this film, more than other films that I have watched.

[@JacksMovieReviews]

Awesome video. I loved the discussion of Luv.

[@LikeStoriesofOld]

Thanks Jack! I really enjoyed yours as well!

[@ClayMann]

I luved that too. I think it was a nod towards the idea that no matter how well we think we're mastering the art of A.I. It has a complexity that at some point allows A.I to be its own master, manipulating the code or genes or whatever its made of to be free even when its programmed not to be. Almost as if its an oxymoron to have higher intelligence that's able to be a completely controlled predictable product. I wonder if in years to come as we can look back on the original Blade Runner and see how much of it really happened. Building sized neon ads and so on and so on. Will we also look back on this movie and see how accurate it turned out to be? I'll come back to this comment in 30 years and discuss it further :)

[@mot0rhe4d40]

@@ClayMann "Control is an elusive illusion. Cruel indeed,to subtle."

[@MaxWelton]

Fun fact: when I first saw this masterpiece in the cinema for my friend’s birthday (I’d seen the first one the day before to prepare) I didn’t get that Joe died at the end. My brother told me that if a character is lying down with severe wounds at the end and closes their eyes, they dead. I thought the poor guy was taking a nap!

[@duncanbrodie3697]

K is entirely just another replicant. By the end of the film he remains that even though he thought he was more he is just another person. Its incredible how we feel such sympathy and empathy for a character

[@Gharya_Prastya.]

He's Joe

[@MKej6]

This might be your masterpiece.

[@RizztrainingOrder]

Shoot, all his videos are.

[@makro80]

beautiful and eye-opening. I didnt quite understand Luv's motivation after first watching the movie. The interpretation presented here is very beautiful.

[@willardlarkinsnow5622]

This review is as hauntingly beautiful as the film. I’m gonna have to rewatch both. Thank you

[@chelmerich]

This is such a beautiful and moving video essay. I keep returning to it and always marvel at it when I rewatch it. Such wonderful insights about Luv’s character and her tragic *human* arc - it enriches the film immensely.

[@captnwinkle]

Welp, it's 3 am, and on my third warch literally back to back trying to get the full depth... I guess shopping online and reasing other stuff isn't helping. Will probably.l will listen to it at the gym again. I wonder if he has a Spanish version so I can dollow up easier

[@CockatooDude]

Damn, that was an excellent video. It makes the ending even more sad though that ultimately K and Luv wanted the same thing, and they both killed eachother trying to get it because their "souls" as you put it were so much different, and they didn't see eye to eye.

[@DaBxprince83]

Whoa! 11:09 is when he starts to really break it down, throws it up and BODY SLAM! I felt myself levitating! Yet again another one!

[@prabhatdreamz]

"...but one man stands in her way"...gave me goosebumps, and from thereon, it was an overwhelming amalgamation of images, sound, and poetry. Beautiful. Thank you.

[@TheCrazyyashley]

I love the beauty and metaphor that Luv kills Joi. These movies are so lost on so many, what a tragedy for they are incredibly introspective story telling masterpieces.

[@andrea_pirlo]

This video deserves an award!

[@rodrigojorgec]

yes it deserves an award

[@PramitChatterjee1993]

This is the one of the best, if not THE best, analysis of Blade Runner 2049. Amazing stuff.

[@shadiester]

I think I've watched this about 7 or 8 times now and every I'm awed at the incredible beauty and profoundness of it. I simply cannot thank you enough for the philosophical insight this has given me and my again renewed appreciation of the value of stories.

[@zacharylansing]

I come back to this video every now and again to give myself perspective

[@frankmclauchlan9685]

Jesus Christ this movie was outstanding

[@Anubis22774]

Frank Mclauchlan GREATEST FILM EVER MADE......... BY MILES.

[@100ksubscriberswithnovedio2]

@@Anubis22774 lol

[@jeffcarr6853]

Are you thanking the LORD for this film?

[@Failurefirst123]

You made me cry again. Damn your good

[@Failurefirst123]

I listen to this when i’m working out because i find it inspiring especially the last like 3 minutes

[@carlenec.t.kaufmann7664]

symphoni! I agree. Explains to me the concept of Narcissism perfectly. good onel keep going!!

[@JP_AZ]

FailureFirst lol. Yes. Me too!

[@SALEENS7GTR5]

I haven't broken down like that in a long time. Your summation at the end tipped me over the edge and I was a wet ball of spiraling thoughts for a couple minutes. Incredible work.

[@dawid_dahl]

Same here.

[@venn7eance925]

Sorry to be late to the party... One of the most troubling thoughts this movie gave me was regarding Luv's tears. She is clearly experiencing genuine human emotions, has she not ascended then from merely being a replicant?? Her story is the most tragic of all in my opinion, because even the movie seems not to care about what she is experiencing and overlooks it.

[@lockerroomtalk97]

she is a complete psycho and represents the evil side of humanity. glad she choked to death. she was very pretty though , cant lie

[@CMDR_Verm]

I never thought that I would enjoy having my heart ripped out. I only recently discovered your videos and each one is almost too much. Thank you.

[@logandotson5600]

The last 2 minutes of this made me shed a tear of how beautiful this is. I love your channel. Never stop making content.

[@MrChannelforwatching]

Came down to say the exact same thing and I found this comment. It wasn’t even a tear, I burst out crying. This was absolutely beautiful. Subscribed.

[@MegaZombielover]

Wow, you just blew my mind with your analysis of Luv. Thanks, man.

[@HemlockSillage]

Agreed! I could not understand her motivation, so she was this blank selfish evil character to me. His explanation makes her more real, soulful even. I can’t wait to rewatch Luv with this in mind.

[@rodrigojorgec]

mine too

[@joshyoung8856]

The editing of the various arcs at the end was overwhelming. Very well done.

[@ThisLateHistoricalHour]

This may be the most in depth and beautiful analysis of this movie I’ve ever seen. Genuinely, thank you for a beautiful video. Not just text, but texture.

[@briandecker8403]

All of your work is amazing - this, however, is transcendent. Easily the best analysis of one of the most amazing films ever made. Bravo!

[@beth1979]

Thank you. I think I now understand the Sufi prayer "construct me a heart", I thought a heart was a given, but it is something created.

[@IamAston]

This was the first of your videos that I ever saw and I still think it's your best, I periodically come back to it because I think the way you convey the meaning of this film is just so profound - truly a masterpiece worthy of it's subject matter.

[@raykaelin]

excellent...to quote the original - .'you've done a man's job sir!'....I myself (or anyone I know of) could not have possibly articulated this incredibly sensitive and visceral exploration of such questions with such skill and insight. Your talent is transparent throughout and the depth, clarity, and meaning of your observations are profound. I was deeply moved and I thank you so much for the humanity and feeling you imbued in what you wrote

[@Jjrmtv]

masterpiece. i wept. how do we define our humanity? by a definition we create for ourselves, or how others define us?

[@cameronsprayberry7905]

amazing video right made me cry also !!

[@mattblom3990]

Others define themselves as something other than Blade Runner based on the poor ticket sales :(

[@TurinInquisitor]

my imaginary little sisters make me real (?)

[@nonever10]

Amazing - that last bit of editing it beautifully done!

[@marcelloursic424]

It would've arguably been better if he used Tears in the Rain like in the movie.

[@isaaclopez4362]

This gave me chills and it was so beautiful. Thank you for making me love this movie beyond what I thought I'd be capable of appreciating a film.

[@Lockn3s5]

This was legit one of the most beautiful films I've seen in a long time. Not since "The Fountain" did a film's meaning resonate so strongly with me. Whoever directed this one nailed it so damn good. The themes, the atmosphere, and mood all in service to the character.

[@sharpdude100]

I've literally read many articles and watched a few videos on Bladerunner 2049, its philosophy and meaning. Although I learned and understood what it was about, it wasn't until I've watched this video that now I actually realize that I wasn't seeing the whole picture. Thank you so much.(I understood the references to Pale Fire, but this video showed me how Kay's journey is sort of a replica of the poet's, in that he found meaning but later on learned that he had it wrong but that technically him-having given meaning to it was all that matered).

[@briansphar9007]

This is the best analysis of Blade Runner 2049 that I have yet heard. Excellent work!

[@dormin100]

This video is amazingly beautiful, i almost teared up in the ending part. You got into words what i felt about the movie. thank you for that

[@kawaiiafangirl]

The final montage in the last 2 minutes was simply beautiful. Thank you for this!

[@arieacosta334]

When you said "But, one man stands in her way".. It just gave me chills... Thank you for making this video.. It was constructed so beautifully... Especially the ending of it. I loved every second of it. The hidden meaning you exploited also opened my mind on what human nature really is.

[@00dm4d]

As if I were watching the movie again for the first time. Very well done.

[@valery7363]

This is by far the best video I've watched in a long time. Thank you, dude.

[@ThePRCommander]

I absolutely love this video. The tone, the tempo, the content. Emotional and intellectual convergence. Seen it over and over. Thank you.

[@mupicap7927]

15:55 "I Wanna be real for you" 16:00 "I Love You"

[@AkmalGameAtion]

Hariyanto Liputo that broke my heart

[@bbrbbr-on2gd]

Mupi Cap 😢😭

[@Mslaralinda]

The character seems to have disdain "Love"

[@TurinInquisitor]

tfw no Joi to make each other real ;_;

[@transgeek2345]

The day I saw Blade Runner, was the day I knew my life would no longer be the same. Because it was this film that rescued my spirit in a time of unshakable grief. Two weeks before I saw the film, a woman I loved casted me out of her life; and being lovestruck I denied it, selling myself the lie that this was nothing more but a phase, and in my dreamlike state I let her use me, even after she said I was nothing to her. The day I went to see this movie, I invited her to watch it with me, hopeful that we would start again. She was just around the corner, and I asked if she would come. She said yes. And in my foolish excitement, I went to that theater bought two tickets 30 minutes before it premiered and waited patiently outside, hopeful to see her radiant face once again. 25 minutes passed. It was unlike her to be late. I remember texting her, asking when she would come, only for her to reply that she was now home - on the other side of town, despite being so close to where I was, after promising she would come. I froze - not physically, but emotionally, spiritually. I remembered walking into that theater numb, and as I watched that movie, I was moved to tears by every moment that resonated with my grieving spirit. I say this because your closing lines and final shots captured what Haunted me the most about Blade Runner 2049. That dynamic between Luv and K, was the very dynamic I saw between myself and Her. I saw Her in everything Luv did - from the way she silenced her true emotions around her Owners, to the unruly confidence and animosity she unleashed beyond their grasp - because that was her only outlet, her only form of liberation. And in K, I saw who I had become, a cold and distant man, forced to become that of a common dog, futilely trying to find myself in false memories, memories I now knew to be lies. And as the two fought one another physically, I saw who we were ideologically, how she always believed herself to be above me choosing to enamor herself in this world of power and objection, while I found myself longing only to do what was right and earnest no matter how dense I appeared to the world around me as I sought out the subjective spirit in an artificial reality. I thought I was someone special. Because in her eyes, I was once special. She was my love - so much that I addressed her solely by that: “Love”. She sold me dreams, promises - memories. And after realizing what had become of us, I didn’t know what to do. What to feel. I felt confusion, anger, rage. Just like K. We no longer talk. We don’t text or call one another. We are no longer existent in each other’s lives. Nothing more but distant memories - deceased in each other’s voyage through, and visions of, life. Just like K. Just like Luv. I want to thank you for those closing lines you have presented. Because through Luv and K’s final fleeting moments, you captured the closing chapter of our shared journey. “Leading to Two Souls, dreadfully distinct. Perishing in clashing dreams of being interlinked.”

[@xxxxxx5868]

Bruh you don't need to write a Shakespheare ass paragraph about how you were lead on

[@creamygooger]

@@xxxxxx5868 isn't that how all art is made? Through sellf expression of experience? I was moved by his "Shakespearian ass words," so it is art

[@9catlover]

thanks for sharing. hope u are okay now and better off without her

[@xxxxxx5868]

@@creamygooger Bruh no offense but a 2 paragraph comment about how a girl lead you on with fancy words isn't art

[@peterluong4142]

Expression of feelings is art. When art is created, it is made from within the soul. Do you believe that when picasso was drawing, he did it on a mere whim? He had to have some sort of feelings towards his work that inspired him to create it to begin with. Or musicians who make sad songs when they had been hurt from their own experience. It's easy to assume what you don't know, and harder to understand. Believe me I would assume he was just led on by some girl and nothing more. But even I would never know without having experience or witness it for myself.

[@teresamirbaha4181]

Your Essays are truly amazing because while i can tell that this movie is a masterpiece i never had the ability to pinpoint why. Not only do u perfectly elaborate the brilliance of this artwork but adding meaning to it few would have. Thank u for making me understand why i love this movie.

[@redpandarampage2191]

The themes and meanings are really deep and complex, but everytime I rewatch this, I feel like I understand it a bit more, so thank you for this fantastic analysis!

[@daniel_netzel]

This was incredible! I think this was your best video yet, really well done all the way through.

[@LikeStoriesofOld]

Thanks!

[@Animakozak]

Agreed

[@HonestyJZ]

Wow! All of your thoughts were incredible, but I especially appreciated your interpretation of Luv's motivations. I never even considered it until now, but it makes a lot of sense and makes the ending more tragic and poignant.

[@strykenine7902]

I've been following your channel for many years, and I've seen most of your essays. This one, for me, is the most essential. It presents a way forward.

[@RawandCookedVegan]

This is the best, most insightful breakdown of Blade Runner 2049 that I've seen. Well done.

[@sulphuric_glue4468]

Absolutely amazing. That last segment was powerful.

[@rexlongfellow]

Amazing. This analysis was sooo good.

[@rodrigojorgec]

i love this analysis

[@camvick407]

This is absolutely moving!! I keep coming back to it. So thought-provoking and the narration paired with the visuals...❤!!!This is a collaborative poem and I appreciate you making it.

[@Kopesy]

This film really struck something within me. The beautiful simplicity of being part of a whole, of something bigger than yourself, and ultimately being that which is the sum of its parts. The scene where he lies down and dies in the snow was magical.

[@ElCalhau]

ohh I love the fact that the video was made in 2.39 : 1 aspect ratio, the same as the movie. I was literally in awe when I started playing it on my ultrawide monitor, that was awesome! Besides that, this is one of the best analysis of BR2049 I've seen so far because it was the only one that actually made me look at the movie from a new angle, specifically regarding Luv. Awesome video!

[@literaterca]

Seeing your channel for the first time... I am little inclined as to leaving comments usually, but your essay seems to be one of the cases in which it is worth taking a moment to say something. This has got to be one of the most profound and touching analysis of art I've seen in my life. Both Blade Runner films touch me in senses I am yet to understand, and the approach you have given to the movie may just be one of the paths to understand my own sensations in regards to humanity and what it means to be human. Anyway, you have done a superb job and this just adds to the pile of evidence proving Blade Runner 2049 is an excellent piece of art. Thank you for the essay.

[@greysizemore2922]

This is one of my favorite films ever made. I saw it in theaters and have watched it countless times since. Your video gave me an entirely new perspective on the character Luv and has me itching to rewatch. Brilliant work!

[@diavoloinc]

I have seen this video so many times and I do not get tired of it. Thank you for this.

[@xvs8675]

...aaaaand subscribed.

[@techno_spidey95]

Same here without hesitation

[@Shadow77999]

same

[@jimslav6973]

That was really, really, really good.

[@SNOWSOS]

I've rewatched this so many times

[@6ixallah]

been watching you for years & I always come back to this one where I found your channel love your vids man

[@luisa.espinoza48]

HOLY GUACAMOLE..... this video just opened my eyes.... it's.... beautiful how you explain the movie....

[@WhisperStrategy]

I watched this essay a few weeks ago, and it's really stuck with me. I've re-watched it a few times, and it's put me on the path of reading some philosophy books and rethinking my place in the world. I don't want to be overdramatic about it, but I wanted to say that to give context to my "Thanks for making such an awesome thing!"

[@robertworton2394]

The way you sync the music and your beautiful dialogue and voice really give also great message! And I thank you so very much for the work you do!