Blade Runner Vs. Blade Runner 2049: Which One Is Better?

6. Visuals

It goes without saying that the original film is a visual masterpiece, with Scott's direction, Jordan Cronenweth's incredible cinematography, and the legendary Douglas Trumbull's special effects work.

That the film has aged so absurdly well almost four decades later is nothing short of extraordinary, and proof of just how well the largely practical production stands the test of time.

Though 2049 uses decidedly more digital elements in its world-building, these are without question some of the best-integrated visual effects in the history of blockbuster cinema.

That's without mentioning Roger Deakins' astonishing cinematography, which will most likely win him his long-overdue Oscar.

Winner: Though the original film arguably does a better job of depicting the hustle and bustle of a futuristic Los Angeles, 2049's far more expansive visual palette and Deakins' unforgettable work pushes it over the top.

They're two of the best-looking movies ever made, so there's no shame in losing here.