In an interview we conducted with director Denis Villeneuve following the release of Dune in 2021 he spoke about his hopes for Dune: Part Two expressing his desire to make this film ‘playtime!’
Visually this is astonishing filmmaking that uses technology (such as infrared cameras) in innovative ways to produce arresting images but it also allows its ensemble cast, including new additions Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Léa Seydoux and Christopher Walken to have some fun with the interpretation of their characters for the second part of the big screen adaptation of Frank Herbert’s beloved novel.
Much of the action takes place in Arrakis (featuring sublime panoramas and horizon placements that wisely follow John Ford’s advice to Stephen Spielberg in The Fabelmans), following Paul Atreides’ (Timothée Chalamet) journey as he bonds with the Fremen, learns the truth about his destiny and heritage, and gets spicy with Chani (Zendaya turning in a touching performance).
Pugh’s turn as Princess Irulan is refined as she plots and narrates diary entries, Seydoux is excellent and mysterious in her role as Lady Margot Fenring and Walken is delivering his lines as only he can with distinct pronunciation as Emperor Shaddam. Butler as the sociopathic Harkonnen, Feyd-Rautha, with a thirst for blood, violence and humiliation is incredible, from his wild gestures to his impressive physicality he is truly a detestable and memorable villain! Also new and notable is Souheila Yacoub as a Fremen and close friend to Chani and well-guarded secret Anya Taylor-Joy pops up too (as revealed at the World Premiere).
The influence of Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece 2001: A Space Odyssey is eerily apparent in Lady Jessica’s (Rebecca Ferguson) metamorphosis narrative as it traces themes of rebirth and humanity. But it’s also evident across the widescreen shots and close-ups of those big blue eyes. As rebellion blooms with a powerful story of revenge, the set pieces become increasingly more thrilling.
Exhilarating giant worm rides and terror filled amphitheatre battles showcase not only great special effects but performances that convey psychological turmoil. Villeneuve’s bold stylistic choices, along with the penetrating score by Hans Zimmer result in a film that intensely washes over the senses as it pummels the viewer with beauty and brutality.
Dune: Part Two will be released in cinemas on 1 March
