“Dune: Part 2” was amazing and pushed the limits of what a sci-fi movie can be. I loved watching it in a packed theater and hearing the audience’s collective gasps throughout the film. To me, this movie took everything great about the first movie and expanded upon it in a stellar way.
This sequel to the 2021 “Dune” movie directed by Denis Villeneuve focuses on the second part of Frank Herbet’s novel of the same name. The new franchise is a reboot of the “Dune” film from 1984, which was less well-received by audiences and critics alike. The sequel continues to touch on themes of power and ethnic genocide using science fiction as a backdrop.
In “Dune: Part One,” Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) is the son of a royal family headed by his parents, Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac) and Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), who have part control over Spice production along with the House of Harkonnen. Spice is a dust-like particle found only on Arrakis, also known as Dune, that allows for space travel. However, long exposure to it gives people the signature blue eyes that are seen in the Fremen. The first one ends as Paul and Lady Jessica are stranded on Dune after Leto dies by the Harkonnens.Immediately following the events of the first film, Paul Atreides and Lady Jessica have been saved by the Fremen people led by Stilgar (Javier Bardem). As Paul learns the ways of the Fremen, they start to believe that heis part of a prophecy detailing a“voice from the outer world” who will lead them to salvation. However, as Paul has visions of a devastating future detailing the deaths of millions, the House of Harkonnen is planning to continue Spice production on the planet Dune.
The acting in this movie was a masterclass; the all-star cast was perfect in their roles. Austin Butler stood out as the sinister Feyd-Rautha, Ra-Baron of the House of Harkonnen, whose presence was terrifying every time he was on screen. Zendaya also popped off, bringing a sense of power and intimidation to Chani, a member of the Fremen, and stealing every scene she was in with Chalamet.
The costuming was on point, which surprised me in a film about space politics. The wardrobes were simultaneously beautiful and haunting, fitting the characters and plot developments perfectly. It allowed you to feel enveloped by the beautiful cinematography and gave it a sense of realism as the movie unfolded.
This movie had arguably some of the most impressive shots in modern cinema. Every scene made the world feel more expansive and added depth, although most of it took place on Arrakis, a desert planet. Even when the story shifted off of Arrakis, every scene was so incredibly detailed, it was hard to tear my eyes from the screen.
The film is still exposition-heavy, similar to the first one, and made the movie feel dragged out at times. That’s not to say it’s bad, but with the movie’s 2-hour and 46-minute runtime, it felt like a bit much. However, unlike its predecessor, the film does make up for it by having more sci-fi action and a lot more sandworms.
“Dune: Part 2” was one of those cinematic moments like “Oppenheimer” and “Barbie” — watching it in a theater is one of the best ways to experience it. If you’re looking for a modern masterpiece, this film is going to be an out-of-this-world experience for you.
