The beauty and the horror. Dune: Part Two is a captivating masterpiece that surpasses its predecessor, reaping immense benefits from the liberation of exposition that had previously burdened Part One. The story's raw and instinctual motifs are vividly portrayed through powerful intensity and untamed magnificence. Dennis Villeneuve’s sequel, an adaptation of the final third of Frank Herbert’s best-selling classic novel, provides reminders of how much Herbert’s original vision has influenced iconic sci-fi tentpoles such as Mad Max and Star Wars.
The film's highly anticipated trailers and the star power of its young cast all contributed to its success at the box office, earning $81.5 million domestically and $178 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing opening weekend since Barbie. Like the book, the second half of this grand and complex tale explores themes such as political strife, the dangers of mythic destinies, the power of faith and the use of propaganda, all while featuring epic battles with giant sandworms and the threat of atomic weapons. The film juxtaposes religious zealotry with the hope that springs from faith, ultimately leading to a blood-filled conclusion.
For me, the most standout performance was Austin Butler's depiction of Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen in his first mainstream movie role following the success of Elvis. He quickly asserts himself as an eccentric and unorthodox antagonist, making him stand out as one of the most unique and captivating villains in a major film since the Joker in The Dark Knight. Villeneuve perfectly described Butler’s performance: “A cross between a psychopathic killer, an Olympic sword master, a snake and Mick Jagger.”
The score by Hans Zimmer is remarkable, featuring instruments and sounds that have a magnetic presence both on and off-screen. The sets are grand and impressive, leaving the audience in awe and wonder. The cinematography is captivating and almost transcendent, which at times gives a sense of otherworldliness while encompassing the beauty of the desert in its natural and unfiltered state.
Regardless of your initial inclination towards science fiction, this film serves as a potent and captivating testament to the profound impact cinema can still possess. It is a resplendent example of how a harmonious convergence of ambition, intellect and artistic prowess can result in a magnificent cinematic experience.
Edited by Anna