REVIEW: Dune: Part 2 Is A Long, But Well Worth It Journey
Denis Villeneuve brought the sci-fi world to a stop with the release of the film adaptation of Frank Herbert’s bestselling novel, Dune in 2021. Three years, and a theatrical release date push back or two later, Villeneuve is finally back with the follow up to the hit film, Dune: Part 2.
This new creation from the director kicks things off right where the previous one left off with the film’s lead, Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalomet), along with his pregnant mother, Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), trying to integrate themselves into the Fremen tribe, led by Stilgar (Javier Bardem). With one half of the tribe believing them to be a spy and the other half believing Paul to be Lisan al Gaib (“The Voice from the Outer World”), due to some crafty manipulation on Lady Jessica’s part, Paul find himself at odds. It’s only when his mother decides to become the tribe’s new Reverend Mother and heads south to give birth, that Paul begins to realize his place in this war.
If that wasn’t enough, the story shifts focus to the Emperor (Christopher Walken) and his daughter, Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh), and their spice dealings with the power hungry, Harkonnens. It’s here where fans get their first glimpse of the Baron’s psychotic nephew, Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler), who loves nothing more than pain and violence. As the two Great families continue to battle, completing ignoring the rumors of Paul Atreides’ survival, the Freman prepare for their final battle to take back what has belonged to them all this time.
The second part in this ever-growing story is long; very long. At almost three hours, the film is a lot to take in and is filled to the brim with as much lore and history that at points feels as though viewers are sitting in on an Arrakis history class. It’s complex and almost too much at times, but Villeneuve knows that not everyone who sees this film has read the book, and thus need to understand these prophecies, politics, and stories in order for the story to continue. It in no way takes away from the film, but instead suits a second film in a series, that leads to a dramatic final thirty minutes of the film.
If the story feels a bit too much for viewers, the cinematography and Hans Zimmer’s score help ease that onslaught of information. The worlds created in this film, much like its predecessor are absolutely stunning. From the desert land ruled by the Fremen to the black and white industrial covered city of Giedi Prime, home House Harkonnen, no stone is left unturn. These settings are only elevated upon by the use of Zimmer’s score. His score manages to note the slight differences between settings and characters just by the change of a key or tone. These slight nuisances make for a spectacular viewing expense.
Chalomet returns as the film’s lead, and once again, does a very nice job. Though there are moments, specifically the moments focusing on him being the Lisan al Gaib, that felt a tad bit forced, his performance overall was well done. Zendaya also returns as the Fremen, Chani, and is given so much more material to work with in this film then the 2021 film. She does a wonderful job of showcasing Chani’s turmoil over protecting her people and Paul, and the difficulties thrown her way by Paul’s actions.
Florence Pugh and Austin Butler are some of newcomers to the cast, and both actors aren’t given as much screentime as I previously predicted. Pugh’s Princess Irulan is rarely seen throughout the film, but when on screen, her performance steals the scene. Butler’s Feyd-Rautha to be a little lackluster. For someone who thrives off the hunt and fight, I never felt that edge in Butler performance.
For those who are fans of the books and fans of the 2021 film, you are in for quite the treat. Dune: Part 2 is an entertaining ride filled with turmoil, conflict, and beauty that leads to quite a fantastic climax. For the general audience, a viewing of the 2021 film should be on your list before venturing to the theaters this weekend. If you are unsure about seeing this film in theaters, I say this, this is a fill that should be viewed in theaters.
Grade: A-