Dune: Part Two
Year: 2024
Rating: PG-13
Length: 166 minutes / 2.77 hours
Years ago, when I first read Dune, I struggled to get through the first half of the book. There was so much exposition and world building I had to get through that when the action finally began, I devoured the rest of the story. While I understand the need to split this epic novel into two movies, it meant I was eagerly anticipating Dune: Part Two (2024) after the excellent job Denis Villeneueve did adapting the first half in 2021.
I appreciate that movies have multiple chances to become the iconic versions that their source material deserves. The original Dune (1984) has its own cult status among its fans (many of which are merely David Lynch fans). But the wide audience appeal of an epic story that stands the test of time is the high standard most filmmakers strive for. Few have been able to pull it off, but I think time will be kind to this two-part movie—mostly in part to the strength of its second half.
Stylistically, both parts of Dune are pure Villeneuve. New film techniques he brought to the table here merely enhanced the sci-fi world first thought up by Frank Herbert. The cinematography, set design, sound design, and overall editing of the film all came together masterfully to show Paul’s (Timothée Chalamet) acceptance of his role as avenger of his family and savior for Stilgar’s (Javier Bardem) people. The chosen one narrative might be trite in the whole scheme of things, but it was entertaining to watch, nonetheless. If Denis isn’t a household name after these two films (and Arrival (2016), of course), then people aren’t paying attention.
The best half of the Dune story, I give Dune: Part Two 4.5 stars out of 5.
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