DUNE REVIEW: Denis Villeneuve Truly Brings the Spice to This Long-Awaited Adaptation
After so long of science fiction being a niche prospect, 1968’s 2001: A Space Odyssey could’ve been shelved in cinephile archives and comic-con conventions. Instead, it paved the way for 1977’s Star Wars, Blade Runner, Ex Machina, etc. Even before all of them was a peculiar novel by Frank Herbert. Once considered unfilmable, the closest we had was child’s play tampered by studio interference (though it had a worthy director in one David Lynch). What better ambassador to achieve the impossible in this 21st century than Denis Villeneuve, who resurrected another 80s sci-fi property into the mainstream?
With the aid of award-winning writers Jon Spaihts and Eric Roth, Villeneuve’s scope has easily translated the novel’s first half. It manages not to fall victim to what some part 1-part 2 films have in the past: Be a complete story of its own. Sure, it leans into exposition and character development, but they’re the best kind. It’s also sharpened by the best world-building of Villeneuve’s filmography in visuals, organic dialogue, and oppressive scope. Hans Zimmer’s score feels like a natural progression from his all-encompassing filmography of the 2010s; electric synth waves and earth-shattering vibrations juxtaposed with world beats and Gregorian chants.
Dune might have one of the most substantial feats for an ensemble cast in a long time, and they are all worth the rave. When people look back at which actors exemplified the hottest talent of the Timothee Chalamet’s Paul Atreides has echoes of his 1984 counterpart Kyle MacLachlan, but brings his spin on the shy warrior. Jason Momoa brings his trademark charisma and humor to Duncan Idaho, Paul’s brother. Oscar Issac and Rebecca Ferguson as Paul’s parents bring chilling warmth and anxiety alongside Paul. Stellan Skarsgard’s villainous Vladimir Harkonnen is one of several stunning evocations of 1979’s Apocalypse Now sprinkled throughout. Josh Brolin is a worthy successor to Patrick Stewart as Gurney Halleck; Dave Bautista and Zendaya are also specialized in their smaller roles but don’t be too excited as they’re kept to a minimum.
Denis’ prospect here fulfills his promise to strike the right balance between being a blockbuster game and being true to his art-house roots, and the packed theater I was in was great proof of that. Here’s to hoping that a Part 2 and what streaming series that may come will complete the cycle in making Frank Herberts’ legacy as canonized as the most legendary of book adaptations- The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, etc. Once thought of as unattainable, now only halfway there.
