Saturday, April 26, 2025
Today is the day I’ve been waiting for. I get to review DUNE. The 1960s sci-fi novel created by Frank Herbert is one of my favorite books and one of the most beautiful stories ever put to paper. If you’re like me, you’ll know how impactful the book has been since its release, but this is not a literature review. Today I will be discussing the newest film created by mega-talented director Denis Villeneuve, DUNE: Part One.
Today is the day I’ve been waiting for. I get to review DUNE.
Dune is set thousands of years into the future with a Galactic Feudal system in place. All ruled by an Emperor, and many prominent houses controlling their homeworlds. The most critically traded good in this universe is named ‘spice mélange’, and it allows travel between the stars safely, a sort of lightspeed. There is one planet called Arrakis where the spice mélange is produced, and it is one of the harshest environments in the galaxy. This is where we find our protagonist headed. For the last 80 years, Arrakis was controlled by the brutal House Harkonnen, the most oppressive and violent house within the galaxy, but the Emperor has asked them to relinquish control.
Paul Atreides, played by Timothee Chalamet, is the central figure to the Dune storyline and is the son of Duke Leto, Oscar Isaac, and Bene Gesserit Jessica, Rebecca Ferguson. He is the heir to House Atreides, who is called upon by the Emperor to take control of planet Arrakis and the spice mélange production at the beginning of the film. Being a noble house, they accept the offer and become the stewards of the planet.
It is not long until the shadowy plan from the Emperor begins to reveal itself, and violence follows.
The story is incredible, and I could go on for days about how comprehensive this world is that Frank Herbert created. It is literally one of the best literary worlds ever imagined. But the movie DUNE… let’s get back to it.
The cinematography is stunning with so many beautiful shots, and the way it is presented is flawless. Hans Zimmer dumped his heart and soul into recording the score for this. Every shot, scene, and moment has a sound that is literally ethereal and sounds like something from another world; it is delightful.
If you love the book Dune, then you will love this movie. The fact that Denis Villeneuve approached this story by wanting to make it TWO films instead of overloading just one is a strong testament to his love for the source material. This film was cared for on every level imaginable and gives the viewer something that is truly timeless. This film is a masterpiece. Go see it today!
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