Dune

⭐ 10.0/10

(Originally written by Tim)

Probably the most highly anticipated movie of my lifetime, I had to wait an extra year through delays to finally see it. And boy oh boy, was it worth the wait.

This is a perfect adaptation. It follows the book incredibly closely, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for some artistic flairs or smart improvements. It takes a vast and epic story, and while it remains epic it does a great job of setting the table. Character motivations and relationships are clear, and while the book can drag a bit this was a non-stop ride.

From the moment the cast was announced I thought they were all perfect, and every single character lived up to my expectations. My only reservation was Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho, but he helped keep this serious movie upbeat and a bit lighter, and his relationship with Paul was believable. Oscar Isaac is maybe the hottest dad in the history of film, and I fully believe that him and Rebecca Ferguson would have a kid that looks like Timothee Chalamet. Chalamet is clearly the star here, and I thought he was perfect. He has the perfect look for a spoiled broody teen turned philosophical desert saviour.

Not enough can be said of how beautiful this movie looks. This isn't your typical action movie - every frame is designed to look like a piece of art. As corny as that sounds there is no denying how much work went into the look and feel of this movie, with noticeably practical effects and stunning wide shots. Every choice fits exactly with the book, and in many cases is cooler than I could have imagined. Every shot is open and full of space (like a desert??), but at the same time filled with so much detail. The way the sand moves like water, or explosions bloom like plants, it was all perfect.

I had been holding off on listening to the soundtrack, and it sure is something. The imax theatre was so so loud, and it works effectively for this score. It is booming, with many different eerie tones, reminding you how alien this all is and keeping you aware of the danger around every turn. I am not qualified to judge music, but I saw this with a music producer and he was blown away.

My favourite scene was also my favourite chapter in the book, and I was completely gripped. It was a transcendent movie experience, one I am not sure I have ever felt, seeing something I love perfectly displayed before my eyes. Slight spoiler, but the title card of the movie says Part 1, which was a bit disappointing to see even though I fully expected it. It just meant that at about 2 hours in I kept checking my watch, praying that time would slow down and I could get more content. All I want is part 2.

The word I have used over and over is perfect, and I really can't think of something I did not like about this movie. It didn't lean on the ecological parallels of Dune, and it didn't try to bang you over the head with the themes or messages, which would have been easy to do. The only downside is that we probably have to wait 3 years for the next one, but given the quality of fast franchise entertainment that is probably a good thing.