DUNE: PART TWO Review

Paul Atreides unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a warpath of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee

While Dune Part One was something to be achieved, it pales in comparison to Dune Part Two. Across the board in every aspect this sequel surpasses the first film, and it’s beyond exciting knowing that there’s more to come in part three. I’m one who enjoyed the first film and appreciated its delicate detail and craftmanship. Though even being a fan of sci-fi material it didn’t resonate with me as much as other diehard fans of the franchise. However, now I’m in love, feeling this sequel is a cinematic masterpiece and should be taught in schools of what Hollywood blockbusters should strive to be.

The broad scale of this production is vastly on another level that’s never been seen before on the big screen, making you feel like you’ve truly transported yourself to the other side of the universe. The texture, graininess, and atmosphere are the perfect escapism for any moviegoer who at the very least wants to be entertained, and at the very most blown away. With this inspiring the Star Wars franchise there are similarities to its grandness, but also polar opposites of each for comparison. Many may say Dune is a more mature franchise, and there’s nothing wrong with that mindset in the slightest.

Director Dennis Villeneuve stripped away everything the main character, Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), held dear in the first film, yet gave him new purpose to live during the second. The growth in his character from one film to the next is nothing short of amazing. He is the exact character you want to root for to seek justice for all who believe in truth and peace. The decisions he has to make in real time, at the last minute show he’s a true leader, as he transforms into the man he was destined to be centuries ago. He was very convincing in his dialogue and one of the best protagonists that’s ever been written for the big screen in quite some time.

Though he’s not alone, with a great supporting cast to assist him along the way. Whether good or evil, everyone involved in this film gave every ounce of their will to deliver such a joyful performance to witness at the theater. It was as if they were told this was the last film they’d ever be a part of and wanted to leave nothing behind for their descendants to bear.

Not only are the action sequences in this film phenomenal, it’s the strategy behind their goals that makes it stand out. With decades of action sequences that have filled up our minds Dune Part Two is still able to deliver something fresh and new, even during some of the simplest moments. Whether it’s hand to hand combat by two individuals, or an all assault with two opposing sides charging at each other, there is no wasted movement, and each person is given something compelling to do to contribute to their clan’s overall goal.

The main villain/antagonist is repulsive, played by Stellan Skarsgård, and you couldn’t cast a betteractor for the role. Being utterly disgusting is an understatement, but helps represent how evil and sinister his morals are deep inside, and what obstacles the protagonists have to overcome.

Hans Zimmer is back composing the score, and this may be some of his best work yet. It’s a wonderful treat to see talented people passionate about their form of art, and that’s not just the case with the composition, but every arena that made this film possible.

Dune Part Two was a wonderful experience that I haven’t had at the theater in years. This made me feel like a kid again and like anything is possible in the world. There were times when I couldn’t believe what I was seeing due to the high entertainment value of every second of this 2 hour and 45 minute runtime. If Dune Part Three is just as good, this could easily be considered as one of the greatest film trilogies of all time, and what a time to be alive to see this all play out in theaters. The entire team should be proud of this work, and this could easily be one of the best features of 2024. Simply Magnificent.

My Rating : 9.75/10