But have you read the original novella? I enjoyed both films, but "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" has much more depth to its questions about humanity than either of them. It also illustrates Deckard's disfunctional nature better.

The original is basically worse as a film than 2049.

However, it's better, because of the sheer power of the visuals and worldbuilding. Some things in it have not aged well (like the "love" scene), but it is still simply jaw-dropping. It's what Scott is just unmatched at doing. A villeneuve film probably makes more sense, but Ridley Scott does Ridley Scott better than anyone. Give him a good script and watch him fly.

They're both excellent, they don't need to compete. Be glad 2049 ever got made (similarly with Dune really).

2049 beats the original in cinematography imho - much better atmosphere and backdrops, despite the story being "simpler" (which, i actually prefer tbh). The original was a b-grade movie that was well made even with limited resources. 2049 is a Hollywood level high production value movie that can be enjoyed on the surface level, as well as have some intellectual meat in it.

The original is a masterpiece, but I wonder how much I’m reminiscing. Sean Young and Rutger Hauer we’re fantastic, though, so I do think there is something timeless about it. I have watched 2049 a couple of times now and still don’t see what everyone else sees as great about it. I’m willing to keep trying though.

i prefer 2049, but i only saw the original a year before. i thought there was a lot of cringeworthy stuff that hasn't aged well. some of the soundtrack, dialog etc.

The original stands up with 2049. Highly recommended