A beautiful tapestry of cinema, director Denis Villeneuve and company unleashes sound and fury to the second part of his adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune.
Plot/Story
In Dune: Part Two, Paul Atriades (Timothee Chalamet) and his pregnant mother, Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), continue to live with the Fremen in the desert of Arrakis. Simultaneously, the Harkonnens, led by Baron Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgard), continue to maintain their control. But, when Paul and the Fremen begins to drive them out, the entire galaxy begins to notice. This includes Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh) and her father – Emperor Shaddam IV (Christopher Walken). Also waiting in the wings is the Reverend Mother of the Bene Gesserit (Charlotte Rampling). And as Paul’s influence over Arrakis begins to grow, so does a massive showdown between him and all the forces in the galaxy.
Dune: Part Two Is Sound & Fury
With Dune: Part Two, director Denis Villeneuve continue his adaptation of the seminal sci-fi novel from Frank Herbert. This time, Villeneuve and company craft an amazing visual spectacle. One that uses the blockbuster lens. It expands outwards with its scope and scenery. With the help of screenwriter Jon Spaiths, Villeneuve explores themes of religious ideology and characters trying to escape their fate. Spaiths and Villeneuve also continue with themes introduced in Part One, such as honor and coming-of-age. The latter fits Paul as he becomes a leader for the Fremen people.
In addition, cinematographer Greig Fraser widens the screen to its fullest potential. This allows for amazing shots to be captured in a true 1:81:1 aseptic ratio. Furthermore, it allows for production designer Patrice Vernette to sweep in and present itself as realistic, yet tangible. Especially, when combined with a blend of practical and visual effects courtesy of DNEG (Double Negative), Wylie Co., Territory Studio, and Rodeo FX.
Along with that, editor Joe Walker gives the film a relentless pace. He uses its 166-minute runtime to its advantage. Additionally, the sound design, courtesy of sound designer Richard King, brings a sense of authenticity to the film. Composer Hans Zimmer complements this with an enthralling intro into the desert landscape. Its composition of intense throat-singing, synth-level guitar riffs, and mighty trumpet noise mesmerize.
Performances in Dune: Part Two
What can be said about this cast that hasn’t been already said? It’s no secret the movie lacks some Middle-Eastern/MENA representation. Still, the cast does present some great performances. This starts with Timothee Chalamet. He manages to keep a wide-eyed curiosity and meekness as Paul. Moreover, Chalamet presents Paul as a formidable fighter and leader. That meekness is the crux of the relationship between Paul and Chani (Zendaya). Moving on to Zendaya, who brings a fierceness and moral center to the film. Likewise, Zendaya displays good chemistry with Chalamet.
Along with them, Austin Butler delivers a psychotic performance as Feyd-Rautha. He is the nephew of Baron Harkonnen. Indeed, the same can be said of Rebecca Ferguson’s portrayal. Plus, Charlotte Rampling dazzles in her depiction of the Reverend Mother. Both actresses deliver a magnetic performance. Undoubtedly, both convey their characters’ hunger for power. As for Florence Pugh’s acting, she brings a sense of naiveté but awareness. Meanwhile, Walken still manages to stand out despite having minimal presence in the film.
Rounding out the cast, Javier Bardem brings sincerity to Stilgar. Which, in turn, allows Bardem to bring some well-placed levity into the role. That sincerity also extends to Josh Brolin. He exhibits a gruff weariness as Gurney Hallack. Finally, Stellan Skarsgard and Dave Bautista are as despicable as Baron Harkonnen and Beast Habban, respectively.
Conclusion
Along with Dune: Part One, Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two successfully adapts the Frank Herbert novel into a beautiful tapestry of cinema. Villeneuve and company craft a stunning blockbuster filled with phenomenal cinematography, breathtaking production design, incredible visual and practical effects, relentless editing, and a sound design that’s complemented by its score. Its cast all deliver outstanding performances. Overall, Dune: Part Two is a blockbuster. It’s cinema in its finest form.
Score: 4.5 out of 5
