Every now and then, a movie comes along delivering an experience so remarkable and transcendental that it leaves the viewer with the indescribable gut feeling that not only did they watch a cinematic masterpiece, but also witnessed a monumental moment in the history of film and art that will be talked about for generations. It is a rare and powerful sensation that only comes maybe a handful of times in a generation and the exact emotion I felt as the credits rolled on Dune: Part Two the latest science fiction opus from the acclaimed auteur filmmaker Denis Villeneuve (Arrival, Blade Runner: 2049.)
Continuing the story of Paul “Muad’Dib” Atreides following the events of 2021’s Dune, this stunning sandy sci-fi spectacle leaves the viewer in a state of shock and awe with breathtaking cinematography, sensational sound, and powerhouse performances from its star studded cast alongside a unique vision that perfectly captures the spirit of the legendary Frank Herbert novel that revolutionized the landscape of the entire speculative fiction supergenre. With its predecessor shouldering the burden of setting up the world, characters, and concepts, Dune: Part Two wastes no time following its reluctant hero in his quest to retake and liberate Arrakis from the vile House of Harkonnen who overthrew his family while also being faced with the dark destiny of igniting a brutal holy war through the Fremen Revolutionaries that gradually turn from friends to fanatics as they rally behind the young duke.
The complex external and internal conflicts faced by Paul are conveyed perfectly by Timothee Chalamet, fresh off his leading role in Wonka as its titular chocolatier, trading sugar for spice and whimsy for gravitas as he settles effortlessly back into the role of Dune’s unwilling messiah. Chalamet’s Paul carries the weight of countless worlds on his shoulders as every decision he makes seems to lead him further into a prophecy that even in the best scenario will ensure the deaths of billions. Chalamet’s soulful and angsty performance fits the role of Paul Atreides like a glove, and makes for the perfect foundation for the rest of the film to build upon.
The supporting cast in this stellar cosmic saga is exceptional as well. Zendaya lends Dune’s love interest, Chani, more strength and agency than even the novel afforded her as she grapples with losing Paul to his legend, mortified by the corrupting power the messianic prophecy of the “Lisan Al Gaib” has not only on Paul but her people as well, with the Fremen freedom fighters being warped from strong spirited individuals to a singular hivemind of zealots and fundamentalists. This transformation is highlighted perfectly through Javier Bardem’s performance as the Fremen leader, Stilgar, perfectly capturing the inherent tragedy of the character as the audience watches the wise desert elder deteriorate into a mindless cultist willing to throw away both his agency and his life for Paul.
I would be remiss if I did not also highlight Austin Butler’s scene stealing performance as Feyd Rautha, the deranged nephew of Baron Harkonnen called in to crush the Fremen resistance. Much like his previous performance in 2022’s Elvis, Butler showcases an uncanny ability to fully disappear into a role, continuing to establish him as a rare chameleon of a character actor, diving into the role of Dune’s cold blooded young psychopath with murderous glee. The primal power of his performance is fully encapsulated in the film’s arena sequence, a highlight of the movie showcasing its quick and brutal fight choreography in a particularly stark and slick black and white style made possible through infrared lighting that gives the Harkonnen homeworld of Geidi Prime a cold and oppressive feel.
This arena sequence is just one of the many breathtaking visuals in Dune: Part Two, which unifies the best in blockbuster effects with smart and masterful cinematography that can only come from a consummate filmmaking talent. This marriage of techniques and technology delivers a rare and beautiful Sci-Fi experience with the thrilling spectacle of a Star Wars and breathtaking majesty of a Space Odyssey. All this along with incredible sound design and an epic score by Hans Zimmer makes Dune: Part Two a technical marvel that demands to be seen on the biggest possible screen with the best possible sound.
Dune: Part Two is a masterpiece in every sense of the word. A rare cinematic achievement that will undoubtedly become one of the all time great classics of not only its genre, but film in general. The kind of movie that theaters were built for, Dune: Part Two will leave audiences awestruck, reverberating through their being the whole drive home and into the next day. This is a film that everyone should see at least once as an essential piece of cinema and the moviegoing event of this generation, and one that comes heavily endorsed and recommended. The hype is real, and must be seen to be believed.
