Film review: ‘Dune’

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By Madelaine Vikse, Editor-in-Chief

“Dune,” released Oct. 22, is an epic action film that follows fictional character Paul Atreides and his thrilling adventure throughout the movie’s futuristic desert setting and asks the question of who can and cannot be trusted.

The film stars Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, the son of Lady Jessica, played by Rebecca Ferguson and Duke Leto Atreides played by Oscar Isaac.

“Dune” takes place in the year 10,191, where Paul, Jessica and Leto must travel to another planet, Arrakis, inhabited by “Fremen,” individuals that have piercing blue eyes due to the planet’s environment.

Arrakis is rich with “spice,” one of the most sought-after items in the fictional universe. The planet is also riddled with “sandworms,” giant monster-like worms attracted to rhythmic noises made in the sand, including people’s footsteps.

The film “Dune” is adapted from the 1965 series of the same name written by author Frank Herbert. This is not the first film adaption of the series, as there was another “Dune” film released in 1984, but it was not well-received.

Luckily, this most recent film adaptation of “Dune,” directed by Denis Villeneuve, does not disappoint. The film is a science-fiction adventure film reminiscent of “Star Wars” and “The Lord of the Rings.”

The acting is incredible, with Chalamet and Ferguson’s mother-and-son scenes exceptionally emotional and serious.

Skilled cinematographer Greig Fraser exceeds expectations with captivating views of the desert setting, an unsettling but beautiful color palette and creative use of shadows throughout the film. Frasier is no stranger to science-fiction films, as he was the cinematographer for the Star Wars film “Rogue One,” released in 2016.

The musical score, courtesy of experienced composer Hans Zimmer, plays into the film’s suspense and gives the film an overall ominous feeling. Zimmer’s masterful use of bagpipes is a delightful surprise and fits perfectly within the rest of the film.

A sequel, “Dune: Part 2,” has already been announced and is set to be released Oct. 20, 2023.

The best parts about the film are the cinematography, overall slow building, but intense storyline and the actors’ seamless acting. While the first half of the film focuses on introducing the viewer to the fictional world, which is essential, the last half of the film includes a great deal of action.

“Dune” is now playing in theaters and available for streaming through HBO Max.