Two scifi films, one a new release viewed at the cinema, the other 'discovered' at the library (not sure it even got a theatrical release here, I'd certainly never heard of it), viewed on our old crt motel tv from dvd. (both seen yesterday). BR is stunningly gorgeous, with high-concept art house themes befitting the likes of the original and 2001. The 3d is really well done, very subtle, maybe the best I've seen. The pacing is desultory, even morose, with explosions of horrific violence and cruelty.
And yet, and yet... Chappie is also a remake of sorts in that it recycles many of the tropes, and even character types, from District 9 and, well, Robocop (the original).
Chappie has a light-heartedness and charm lacking in the BR sequel that for me was ultimately more affecting (also a lot more conventional action). The characters are relatable. Apart from scene-stealer Harrison Ford (others' performances come across as serviceable props that animate cgi sets), BR's are relentlessly alien -- even though they are replicant human, and Chappie is a robot.
EDITED: 30 Dec 2019 16:27 by DSMITHHFX