Dune
Rafael "Parker!!" Jovine

Review by Rafael "Parker!!" Jovine Patron

Dune 2021

★★★★

Watched Oct 25, 2021

My first experience with Dune was kind of a funny one. You see I didn't know this was a series of novels when I was younger, so one day I bought a used copy of 'Son of Dune' at the book fair not knowing there was all this lore, so to no one's surprise I finished the book, but at the same time I had no idea what was happening.

A decade later and here I am going to see this long awaited movie knowing only the little I understood from the convoluted David Lynch film and the first three pages I listened to in the three audio book versions I purchased on Audible. And well, even though it may not be the case for everyone, I was able to grasp the gist of what was going on by noticing all the references that other novels and movies have drawn inspiration from. I personally liked the subversive take, the sorta disconstruction on the white savior narrative that was being set up in this film and I guess would be fully explored on the potential second part. Even in their brief appearance, each of the villains, especially the baron, emits a sense of menace and unpleasantness. This is in large part to Stellan Skarsgard's great performance, who not only plays the role but to certain extent becomes this slimy, disgusting being. On the other hand, Rebecca Ferguson is incredible as this sort of anti-hero - though if I'm not mistaken, in the book that character was more evil. The rest of the cast is incredible, and they manage to make their mark, and I became intrigued as to what was going on with them.

As for the technical work, as expected, it is impressive. My perception of the film was heightened by the visual effects, which blended well with the real scenery were for the most part, for me at least, it was difficult to tell them apart. The cinematography and production design never reached the same level as Blade Runner 2049, in fact many of the designs reminded me of a more drab and dreary version of that film. The soundtrack by Hans Zimmer gives the film the final epic scope touch with the chorus singing and all the chanting serving as a nice little touch that enhances the music, which I now can't get out of my head. I also liked how Denis handled all the tension, especially in the iconic Gom Jabbar scene.

All in all, the film ends abruptly at one point, and its length is felt, I still believe the good outweighs the bad. I'm really eager for that show and hopefully second part.

TODAY SCHEDULE
Dune
The Lords of Salem
Underworld: Evolution
Evilspeak

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