DUNE: PART TWO

Finally, 3 years after Part One was released we have the second and concluding chapter. We pick up right where we left off, following Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) and his mother Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) amongst the Fremen in their quest to rid their planet of the Harkonnens and overthrow the Emperor (Christopher Walken). An even more star studded cast has been assembled with the likes of Walken, Florence Pugh as the Emperor's daughter Princess Irulan, Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha (cousin to Dave Bautista's Beast Rabban and nephew to Stellan Skarsgård's Baron Harkonnen), and Léa Seydoux as Lady Margot Fenring. This chapter is much heavier in the religious and political themes. Having recently come across a quote from director Denis Villeneuve in which he explains Paul is not a hero but rather a warning, through that lens, it seems the story is poking fun at religion (which, considering it's 2024 is not a shock as you can be anything in this world you wish to be except white, male, Christian, or patriotic). Despite that flaw, Chalamet and Ferguson both turn in the best performances as strong and at times ferocious leaders. Butler nips as their heels as well on this list but unfortunately, his screen time is rather limited but his presence is felt throughout. Another actor who did wonderful with her, again unfortunately limited role, is Florence Pugh: she's intelligent and displays leadership qualities. Visually this film is stunning from a set piece, costume, and cinematography aspect (in particular the black and white gladiator fight scene featuring Butler that would make Ridley Scott proud). This is the type of film to pay the extra money on to see in IMAX. Looking forward to another screening! 8/10