Keanu Reeves in the game Cyberpunk 2077 was just ‘breathtaking’. Although you get countless award winning Cyberpunk games. Cyberpunk is a completely different realm when it comes to movies. When it comes to the big screen, there’s so much film directors have to visualize, composers have to sound engineer to suit the ambience of these movies. But also saying that there are quite a bunch of cyberpunk movies but not many of them are ‘breathtakingly beautiful’ So I’ve listed a few of my favorites. Hope this helps you find a couple of movies to binge this week.
01 Blade Runner (1982)
Blade Runner (1982) is a mesmerizing and haunting masterpiece, encompassing a dark, enigmatic, and unsettling atmosphere. It transports you into a realm where beauty intertwines with nightmares, creating a visual and emotional experience like no other.
Ridley Scott’s visionary direction elevates Blade Runner to a level beyond its genre, delving fearlessly into profound philosophical inquiries. The film fearlessly probes the depths of existence, challenging our perception of what it means to be human. In doing so, Blade Runner distinguishes itself as a work of immense importance, transcending the boundaries of traditional science fiction. What sets Blade Runner apart is its timeless quality. Despite being released decades ago, it remains as relevant and gripping as ever. The visuals, themes, and technology it presents have not aged but continue to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Its enduring allure lies in its ability to captivate with a blend of timeless beauty and profound emotion.
02 Ghost in the Shell (1995)
“Ghost in the Shell” stands as an intricate masterpiece of cyberpunk fiction and storytelling. It adeptly weaves together compelling philosophical concepts within a coherent yet complex narrative.
As one of the pioneering anime films, “Ghost in the Shell” showcased the seamless integration of traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated imagery. This unique fusion contributes to the film’s visually stunning and surreal aesthetic. Furthermore, the dialogue serves as a guiding force, assisting viewers in unraveling the intricacies of the plot and navigating the film’s profound exploration of personal identity and the evolution of humanity. “Ghost in the Shell” is a testament to the power of anime as a medium for thought-provoking narratives. Its ability to captivate and challenge audiences is a testament to its enduring legacy. Immerse yourself in this visionary masterpiece that combines stunning visuals, profound ideas, and a compelling storyline, leaving a lasting impact on the world of cyberpunk storytelling.
Ranked as my third favorite anime film, right after “Spirited Away” and “Akira,” “Ghost in the Shell” stands out due to its abundance of thought-provoking ideas and its masterful depiction of a dark narrative that resonates with our modern era.
Blade Runner’s legacy lies in its ability to leave a lasting impact, both on initial viewing and upon reflection. It lingers in the mind, inviting contemplation and provoking a range of emotions. As you immerse yourself in its intricacies, you will discover a film that transcends time, offering an enduring testament to the power of cinematic artistry.
03 Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
“Blade Runner” holds a special place in my heart as a true masterpiece. Even after all these years, it remains a landmark in both its genre and the realm of filmmaking. In my opinion, it stands shoulder to shoulder with Ridley Scott’s other great film, “Alien,” as his finest work. Although initially met with mixed reactions, “Blade Runner” has rightfully earned its status as a classic.
When news broke of a sequel over thirty years later, I was filled with intrigue. The film boasted an exceptional cast, including Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford, and the involvement of one of the film industry’s best cinematographers, Roger Deakins. Additionally, with my admiration for director Denis Villeneuve’s previous works, I was both excited and nervous, considering the hit-or-miss nature of sequels in general. However, “Blade Runner 2049” exceeded all expectations and proved to be well worth the wait. It is understandable that some may be alienated by its lengthy runtime, as the criticism of being overlong holds some truth. The deliberate pacing may also test the patience of certain viewers. Yet, the film’s critical acclaim is equally understandable.
While “Blade Runner 2049” is not without imperfections, it remains a jaw-dropping cinematic experience. It captivates with its richness and rewards viewers who appreciate its nuances. The sequel pays great respect to its predecessor and is visually stunning in its own right. Though it may not quite reach the same heights as the 1982 masterpiece, it comes remarkably close.
04 Akira (1988)
“Akira” is an incredibly influential film, rivaling the impact of cinema classics like “Citizen Kane” and “Pulp Fiction.” However, assessing its influence is challenging due to its release over sixteen years ago, initially limited to Japan. Interestingly, this limited release only enhanced its profound influence as it spread through word of mouth and the availability of affordable VHS copies in the late 1980s. The film has garnered such a dedicated following that it warranted a costly digital remastering, exceeding one million dollars, for a “Special Edition.”
It is important to note that “Akira” may not appeal to everyone. The first twenty minutes alone contain strong language, an attempted rape, and intense violence during a confrontation between rival biker gangs. Some individuals may find these elements unsuitable for an animated film, especially considering that it may be viewed by younger children. Additionally, the distinctiveness of Japanese culture, with its penchant for depicting the destruction of Tokyo, might prove challenging to grasp for some viewers. However, if one can look past these aspects and recognize the overall brilliance of “Akira,” its rightful place in modern culture becomes apparent.
While “Akira” may not cater to all tastes, its lasting impact and significance cannot be denied. It stands as a testament to the film’s artistic merit and cultural relevance, making it a noteworthy entry in the annals of cinematic history.
05 Upgrade (2018)
I was pleasantly surprised by this movie as I entered with little knowledge of its premise and low expectations. However, Upgrade turned out to be a delightful experience that I thoroughly enjoyed.
In an industry saturated with big-budget films that fail to make an impact, Upgrade shines despite its modest budget of approximately $5,000,000. Remarkably, it manages to create a visually stunning world that appears far more expensive than its actual cost, proving that a captivating film doesn’t always require a massive financial investment.
One of the standout aspects of Upgrade is its unique action sequences, which bring to mind the groundbreaking work of the Wachowskis on The Matrix. The film successfully captures that same level of excitement and innovation. Additionally, the score, reminiscent of Vangelis’ mesmerizing compositions, greatly enhances the dark and futuristic atmosphere essential to the story’s success. What sets Upgrade apart is its ability to subvert expectations. Just when you think you have the story figured out, it takes unexpected turns, keeping you engaged and intrigued. With its intriguing concept, impressive set designs, and exploration of dark themes, Upgrade truly lives up to its name by elevating the traditional revenge action thriller to new heights.
Prepare yourself for a thrilling and visually stunning experience as Upgrade takes you on an exhilarating ride filled with surprising twists and an atmosphere that will leave you wanting more.
06 Dark City (1998)
Experience the captivating world of Dark City, a sci-fi film directed by Alex Proyas. Follow John Murdoch (Rufus Sewell) as he awakens in an eerie hotel, naked and disoriented, with no memories and blood on his forehead. Unfolded through a series of mysterious events, Dark City presents a twisted reality where personal histories are erased and the future of humanity is at stake.
Despite its brilliance, Dark City has been unfairly overlooked by critics. It deserved recognition, perhaps even an Oscar nomination for “original screenplay,” to honor Alex Proyas’ visionary work. Don’t let the misconception that it’s just a “noir” film deter you. Embrace the dark and twisted elements as strengths rather than flaws. Dark City appeals not only to the trench coat-wearing masses but also to fans of sci-fi and mind-bending plots.
If you enjoy the distorted realities of The Matrix, you must see Dark City. It shares similar themes and will leave you questioning your own perceptions. Indulge in the brilliance of Dark City and immerse yourself in its captivating narrative, where pasts are forgotten, futures are uncertain, and reality is masterfully distorted.
