Dune: Part Two
I believe that something astronomical is happening before our eyes. Something that is currently defining this generation of cinematic glory and storytelling. There are many other franchises that have fallen to current political views and a lack of vision or respect for the source material. Now I haven't read the source material myself, but from some of my most trusted friends, this new adaptation Frank Herbert's classic novel of the same name, was taken into the hands of a brilliant storyteller and he did not disappoint. There wasn't a moment that I wasn't fully enthralled with the world's that were presented and in all of their dark and sometimes haunting beauty. What I truly loved was the inner workings of the multiple ideals, threats and contingencies at work and how they all are weighed upon a single decision of a character's ascendancy. It may seem like a massive can of worms, but once you see the threads that have been woven, those that are plucking them and those that tried to cut them, its a beautiful dance of politics and freedom that ultimately leads to war. All of this is brought to life by the returning and introduction of new outstanding cast members.
Timothée Chalamet was outstanding this time as the now more experienced and weary Paul Atreides. His portrayal of the classic reluctant hero and destined messiah known as "Muad'Dib", was truly fun to watch. You see him weigh the religious power he could possess against the power of his love for another. Its a fine line to walk and Chalamet delivers. Zendaya was fantastic and had alot more to do as his love interest Chani. Her opposing views of the zealotry of the Fremen really nails home the fact that she wishes to remain free of conflict and made up prophecies. The chemistry between her and Paul has never been stronger and I loved their bond and especially the great challenge their relationship goes through. Rebecca Ferguson was outstanding once again as Lady Jessica and the trials and evolution she goes through was shocking. I loved her openness to absorbing the knowledge of the Fremen and their customs. She truly begins her journey early in the film and it is truly spiritual, painful and cerebral all at once. Josh Brolin returns as the always badass and loyal member of the Atreides Guard, Gurney Halleck. He was one of the main reminders to Paul of the duty to his house and to his royal birthright. His friendship with Paul has never been more emboldend and I couldn't wait to see Gurney dish out his deserved vengeance.
Stellan Skarsgård returns as the head of House Harkonnen, Baron Vladimir Harkonnen and he is as evil and cunning as he was in the first film. He doesn't waste time in putting into motion his multi-tier plans to take Arrakis. The great Dave Bautista returns as his impatient and rage fueled nephew Glossu Rabban Harkonnen. You can see the shock and fear in his eyes once he realizes a real challenge has presented itself. Austin Butler was outstanding as the other nephew, Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen. From his gorgeous gladiatorial introduction to his sinister and animalistic approach to battle, he was a force to be reckoned with and I loved every second of it. I also loved his voice and how it was very similar to Vladimir's. Add's to that familiar tone and somewhat worship. Charlotte Rampling was truly on fire as Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam. Through her, you see all the threads being woven and especially how devious and quickly each action is implemented. Christopher Walken was a great choice as Shaddam IV, the Padishah Emperor of the Known Universe. For the time he was on screen, he brought the gravitas world weariness needed. I liked Florence Pugh as his daughter, Princess Irulan. She gets to witness first hand the plots, lies and betrayals and I liked that she wasn't really for it all.
The magnificent Hans Zimmer returns as the composer and I couldn't imagine these films or the rest of the future films without his earth shattering score. The Harkonnen Arena, Worm Ride and Gurney Battle are just a few of my favorite tracks. The use of silence and no score is brilliantly placed in so many epic moments of the film whether its during an intimate conversation between characters or the climactic knife fight. This film is visually on par with the Part One, but somehow looks even more impressive. I can go on and on about the intricacies of the film and how it made me feel complete, but I'd rather let you experience the magic. This is an absolute MUST SEE IN IMAX to get the full scope and soundscape of the worlds presented. This is definitely one of the best sci fi films of the year and the level of quality that other franchises influenced by it need to step up to. Let me know what you thought of the film or my review in comments below. Thanks for reading!
