I was expecting this movie to be more like 2001. This sequel was so much better than the first film. With actual plots. Plural. Much more storyline and a lot less special effects.
The actors made this movie work. So much so that One of my all time favorite movie scenes (for me at least) was in this movie.
The scene when HAL told Dr. Floyd he has a message for him, and than read the first part of the message, which said, “It is dangerous to remain here. You must leave within 2 days.” Every time I see that scene I still get the chills. It doesn’t matter that I already know the scene word by word.
The one and only thing I was disappointed with was the ending. After a long buildup for the ending, the payoff was very unrewarding.
But the ending clearly left the door open for a third installment. Including giving you the basic plot line.