Dune

⭐ 10.0/10

(Originally written by hoodie_logi)

I don't think there's a lot I can add to the conversation here other than what's already been said, but I still feel compelled to try.

First of all, as a massive fan of the Dune universe, and one who has been hurt by other book to film adaptations before (Percy Jackson, Eragon, the list could go on), but Denis Villenueve's vision and execution to this movie was so accurate to the source material. It truly did feel like a passion project made from a place of sheer adoration and love. The few changes that were made were carefully chosen and still worked well to honour Herbert's story. There was dialogue drawn straight from the book and didn't add anything that didn't need to be there. This is not always the case, so I was beyond excited with how this honoured the source material.

Second, I have never seen a sci fi movie that looks or feels like this. Albeit, I have not seen Villenueve's other sci fi work, but in the breadth of big sci fi franchises this was unique. The score and the cinematography were among the best I'd ever seen or heard. It was so immersive and oh so impressive.

Third, the damn cast. Everyone was spot on casted and gave their all in every aspect of their performance. Rebecca Ferguson was a standout as Lady Jessica for sure. Stellen Skarsgård was also absolutely stunning as the Baron. He just emanated pure evil the whole time. There wasn't one actor I had any complaints about.

Finally, if I had one critique, it was that certain plot points and character backgrounds weren't as fleshed out in the book, namely Doctor Yeuh. But again, condensing 500 pages of book into a two and a half hour movie is not an easy task, and I do believe that Denis brought the most important plot points to the forefront so this isn't a real complaint, just a limitation of adapting a book of this scope.

Finally finally, I think the biggest compliment I can offer this movie is that immediately after watching it, my wife downloaded the audiobook and has been listening to it attentively since. This movie has the ability to bring those who know nothing about the Duniverse into the fold, and offer a true representation of what the books offer. Well done to every involved and I will probably be going back to the theatres this week to see it again.