BBC axing 'masterpiece' sci fi film and fans have just days to watch

Science fiction enthusiasts have only a handful of days remaining to dive into one of the most beloved contemporary sci-fi movies, which critics have hailed as a "masterpiece in every sense of the world".

Acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve, who's set to helm the next James Bond film, stunned audiences in 2017 with his eagerly awaited follow-up to Ridley Scott's legendary Blade Runner.

This sequel, which many devotees actually favour over the original, has been streaming without charge onBBC iPlayer, though this opportunity is about to expire as the broadcaster will relinquish the rights within days.

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The 2017 revival unfolds 30 years following the first instalment, transporting viewers once again into a bleak, precipitation-drenched Los Angeles teeming with synthetic beings and existential questions about what constitutes genuine existence.

Ryan Gosling delivers an exceptional portrayal as K, and despite the movie avoiding heavy exposition and lengthy conversations, he succeeds in prompting audiences to contemplate the true essence of humanity, reports the Express.

Throughout his odyssey, he's accompanied by an outstanding ensemble cast including Harrison Ford, who returns to his iconic character, plus compelling turns from Ana de Armas, Dave Bautista and Jared Leto.

Critics embraced the picture enthusiastically, with renowned cinematographer Roger Deakins claiming an Academy Award for his contribution, whilst the production also secured the trophy for outstanding visual effects plus recognition for its audio and set design.

The soundtrack for this film warrants special mention, with Hans Zimmer and Benjamin Wallfisch's synth-heavy score evoking sci-fi nostalgia whilst honouring the genre's greatest works.

Boasting an impressive "Certified Fresh" rating of 88% from both critics and viewers on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences are urging others to give it a watch. One viewer said: "A masterpiece in every sense of the word. The acting, the visuals, the story. It's damn near perfect. I like the original Blade Runner, but this is so, so much better in every way... The peak of modern cinema."

However, don't worry if you missed the 1980s original, as one critic noted: "2049 is able to exist both as a masterful sequel and/or stand-alone film in the universe, which showcases Villeneuve's massive skill as a storyteller and further validates him as one of the best visionaries of our generation."

Critic Josh Wilding echoed this sentiment, declaring: "A masterpiece pure and simple, Blade Runner 2049 does not disappoint and will keep hardcore fans and newcomers alike equally happy with what they're seeing."

The film remains available to stream free on BBC iPlayer, though with its departure scheduled for August 25, you've got just days left before you'll need to pay for rental or splash out on a pricey streaming subscription.