Dune: Part One

 

       Directed by Denis Villeneuve (and co-written by Mr. Villeneuve with Jon Spaihts and Eric Roth), this third attempt at the science fiction classic finally gets it right. By splitting the book into two films (part two will be released October 2023), Mr. Villeneuve and his team concentrate on the first half of the novel and admirably create a complete film but still leave plenty of story for part two.

    The film boasts a terrific cast including Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgard, Dave Bautista, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jason Momoa, Charlotte Rampling, Javier Bardem and in the pivotal role of Paul Atreides, Timothee Chalamet. 

     

    Zendaya spends most of the film in non-speaking dream sequences but is clearly a central character in part two. Mr. Skarsgard is a key villain in heavy makeup, recognizable only by his unmistakable voice. As Paul's parents, both Mr. Isaac and Ms. Ferguson are both excellent, especially Ms. Ferguson. Mr. Chalamet, while doing his best, is the weakest link in the cast. He's a fine actor but he lacks the strength and charisma for such an important role. Hopefully he will grow into the role in part two as his character's destiny is fulfilled.

     Mr. Villeneuve's vision is brought to life in spectacular fashion by its art direction, special effects, exotic locations and cinematography. It is a visual masterpiece enhanced by a sweeping score by Hans Zimmer ( although a bit overwhelming at times ). While the film has been simultaneously released on HBO MAX, I recommend seeing in in a theater on the largest screen possible to appreciate its incredible landscapes and the full scope of the production. 

      The film has a running time of over two and a half hours and at times can feel even longer, with too many dull moments that slow the story. A bit more editing would have been welcome, especially since we know from the onset, it's only part one. There are some excellent action sequences though, but they occur, for the most part, in the second half of the film.

        The novel "Dune" is an iconic science fiction classic and this ambitious, sweeping epic, despite its flaws, does justice to the novel. I can only hope Part Two brings as satisfying a conclusion.