REVIEW: Dune

In a word: Wow.

This Denis Villeneuve sci-fi spectacle has what it takes to be the best picture of the year—and then some. It’s by far the best character-driven film I’ve seen since before the pandemic began.

Based on the 1965 book of the same name, this movie builds incredible worlds and showcases beautiful cinematography. It features fine performances from all of its lead cast members, most notably Timothée Chalamet as protagonist Paul Atreides. His eyes and body language tell the story just as powerfully as his lines do.

Oscar Isaac, who plays his father Leto, also does a masterful job as does Rebecca Ferguson as his mother, Lady Jessica. The relationship between Paul and his mother is unique, complex and heartfelt, while also having a high degree of relatability through the on-screen chemistry between Chalamet and Ferguson.

The supporting cast is strong, too. Jason Momoa and Sharon Duncan-Brewster, in particular, capture the essence of what Villeneuve seemed to envision for their characters.

The lore in this film is magnificent and left me wanting to know much, much more about this universe.

The action scenes are strong, though a bit jumbled in brief moments, but this story is really about Paul’s journey. When it’s telling that story, this is where this film truly shines.

I entered this movie knowing nothing about Dune or its characters, so it’s hard for me to say whether the film is a strong adaptation. That said, I’m invested in these characters and strongly contend this could (and should) be the “next Star Wars”—if properly executed.

This is a strong first entry into what’s sure to be a massive world of storytelling that will follow. I think Villeneuve absolutely nailed it.

I cannot overemphasize this: If you have yet to see this film, see it in a theater first. It’s a magnificent experience. This movie was made for the big screen—and it absolutely shows, in all the best ways.

The bottom line: This is a movie for those who love character-driven stories and/or sci-fi and fantasy films. 9.5/10