Dune Part Two is directed by Denis Villeneuve and stars Zendaya, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, and Timothee Chalamet as Paul Muad’Dib Atreides. This film has become one of the most dignified pieces in science fiction movie history, being developed with great care and skill, making it a respected adaptation of the Frank Herbert novel. While the first film placed a heavy focus on exposition and world-building, the 2024 release raises the stakes by providing an epic story with visual spectacle and intense sequences.
The acting was impeccable, where there were rarely any flaws to be seen within the characters. There was a sense of realism and depth in expression each character portrayed, especially with how Chalamet handled Atreides’ major character development in comparison of the previous film. The one who really stole the show however was the highly-talented Austin Butler as the antagonist, Feyd Rautha. Known previously for his portrayal of Elvis Presley in 2022, Butler masters the deadly essence and channels his inner Harkonnen as the vicious nephew of Baron Harkonnen.
The cinematography is truly an artwork in motion. The desert landscapes of Arrakis with its dry and harsh environment compliments the heavy contrast of Giedi Prime which displays a more dark and sophisticated atmosphere. I really admire Villeneuve’s creative choice of making Giedi Prime black and white which was simple, yet relevant to the attitudes of the Harkonnens. In the current media where movies at times misuse CGI to the point where it’s messy and unrealistic, this film makes good use of it while creating realism in its settings, especially the scenes with the sandworms.
For those who are wondering of recommending this movie, it’s definitely a love-letter to fans of the original Frank Herbert novels as well as regular science fiction movie-goers who hunger for a cinematic experience as this one. However, the film goes into more mature themes in comparison to the 2021 release, depicting strong violence and disturbing images that may not be fit for young children.