The long awaited follow-up to Denis Villeneuve’s awe-inspiring adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel, Dune is finally upon us and it is every bit as impressive as expected. Often dubbed as unfilmable – David Lynch’s ill-fated adaptation of the novel in 1984 being a prime example – Herbert’s tome has clearly benefited from Villeneuve’s decision to break the story into several parts – Part 3 is undoubtedly in the works.
The forthcoming sequel reunites audiences with Timothée Chalamet’s Paul Atreides and his Fremen allies in a gripping battle to reclaim their homeland against the encroaching threat. Meanwhile, Zendaya, whom we briefly saw in the first film, reprises her part as young Fremen warrior Shani, who also happens to be Paul’s love interest.
Chalamet and Zendaya are this time around also joined by a veritable “who’s who” of young Hollywood powerhouses, with Elvis star Austin Butler, British acting sensation Florence Pugh (Midsommar, Oppenheimer) and the always brilliant Anya Taylor-Joy (The Queen’s Gambit, Last Night In Soho) all making their debut in this second instalment.
Dune: Part Two emerges as a monumental triumph, surpassing even the lofty expectations set by its predecessor. From the moment the opening credits roll, director Villeneuve’s visionary storytelling takes hold, immersing audiences in a world of unparalleled scope and grandeur. The film dives deeper into the intricate politics, rich mythology and compelling characters of Herbert’s story.
Seeing Herbert’s vision of Abrahamic mythology and Arabian inspired aesthetics come to life as it was always intended, is simply awe-inspiring. Villeneuve’s usual aversion to spoon-feeding his audience with unnecessary exposition, is perhaps what makes this into both his most complex film and most rewarding narrative.
With breath-taking landscapes, incredible special effects and awe-inspiring action – a black and white German expressionism-inspired sequence featuring a beautifully devised gladiatorial battle is simply jaw-dropping in its perfection – Villeneuve and cinematographer Greig Fraser deliver a masterclass in seamless, powerful filmmaking.
Chalamet’s portrayal of Paul Atreides is nothing short of mesmerising, showcasing a depth of emotion and complexity that firmly establishes him as one of the most compelling protagonists in recent memory. Those among us who have remained immune to the young actor’s charms hitherto, might have to finally admit defeat.
This is a complex and gorgeously layered production that could well be Villeneuve’s best work to date.
