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Denis Villenevue did the unthinkable when he released Part One of his adaptation of Dune- taking the classic novel that had previously been considered unfilmable and turning it into an Oscar-winning sci-fi epic. It captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and elaborate storytelling that left us eagerly waiting for the next chapter.
The much anticipated Part Two proves an impressive sequel, with all the amazing elements that drew us into this incredible world but also expands on the mythology and continues the story.
Part One handled the set-up for the world of Arrakis and the characters, whilst Part Two picks up where we left off, focusing on Paul Atriedes (Timothee Chalamet) and his newfound alliance with the Fremen as they prepare to go to war with House Harkonnen.
Paul’s rise to power is brilliantly executed as he is shown to be a beacon of hope for the Fremen as he is a potential prophet for their religion and he earnestly learns their ways, but his visions showing possible outcomes for his future hints at a darker path during his quest for vengeance.
His relationship with Chani (played superbly by Zendaya) is well developed over the course of the film and you really root for them, as both characters are fully fleshed out showing what they both want from each other and how potential conflicts could affect their future together.
Villenevue handles these films with a level of ambition similar to the likes of Christopher Nolan, wanting this to be an experience for cinema-goers and he certainly achieves it. Never being short on breathtaking visuals with each shot being a work of art and is filled with epic scenes that will leave you in awe.
One of the most memorable scenes includes Paul taking part in a Fremen ritual where he rides a Sandworm. The build up to it has you filled with excitement as you know it’s an important moment and when it happens it makes you want to stand up in your seat and cheer, which is further enhanced by Greig Frasers’ jaw-dropping cinematography and Hans Zimmers’ incredible score.
The story does feel a little overstuffed at times, presumably so Villenevue could wrap up the ending of the book, but because of its rich and complex mythology it can be a lot to take in.
However, much like Part One, by the time this film ends, it will leave you wanting more and hopefully further books in the series will be adapted to continue the story.
Along with the returning characters we got to know in Part One, we are introduced to many new interesting characters.
Austin Butler proves to be a scene stealer as Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, in a far cry from his portrayal of Elvis Presley as he completely relishes in the characters’ despicable and brutal nature.
His first scene shows him participating in an arena battle, where takes great delight in murdering his opponents and you see how he is a real threat that Paul will have to go up against.
Florence Pugh and Christopher Walken both turn in good performances as Princess Irulan and Shaddam respectively, but their roles are rather minimal and feel woefully underused compared to other characters. Hopefully there will be a bigger part for them to play if further films are made.
Dune Part Two is a fantastic sequel that doesn’t disappoint, much like Part One it is definitely one to be experienced in cinemas so it can be appreciated on a grand scale.
Purple Revolver Rating: 4/5