2010: A MUCH Better Sequel Than People Admit (Hear Me Out!)

Okay, okay, before everyone gets their spacesuits in a twist, yes, I know 2001 is a cinematic monument. Groundbreaking. Yadda yadda. But I'm going to say it: 2010 isn't the garbage fire everyone pretends it is. In fact, in some ways, it's better than 2001. Fight me. First off, HAL gets a redemption arc. That's HUGE. In 2001, he's just a murderous AI. In 2010, he's a victim! And he actually apologizes through Heywood Floyd (Roy Scheider, RIP). I'm a sucker for a good redemption story. And the explanation of HAL's glitch? Way more compelling than whatever Kubrick was subtly implying with the monolith. Plus, there's actual plot development! I get that 2001 is all about the visuals and the 'experience', but sometimes I want a story with actual stakes. 2010 gives me that with the cold war tension ramped up to 11. And let's talk about the ending, people. The Jupiter monolith multiplying and turning Jupiter into a star is bonkers. Utterly bonkers! But it's so much more viscerally exciting than old Bowman floating around as a space fetus. I get that the 2001 ending is 'thought-provoking,' but it's also kinda boring. The whole 'All these worlds are yours except Europa. Attempt no landing there' is pure brilliance – an obvious 'hands off' warning. Look, I know I'm probably alone on this hill, and maybe Peter Hyams isn't Kubrick, duh. And maybe the film is a bit too 'on the nose' for some. But honestly, 2010 is a solid sci-fi thriller that doesn't deserve the hate it gets. Sue me if I prefer a little plot with my existential dread.