Dune Part 2 Movie Review

Dune: Part 2 (2024) Movie Review

One of the biggest films of the past 10 years, even though its release was muddled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was of course, Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune’. Even during the pandemic, the film managed to find both critical and commercial success, grossing over $408 million worldwide, including $108 million the USA, even though it was released on HBO Max the very same day. The film also received rave reviews, with an impressive 83% critics score and 90% audience score. The film also performed exceptionally well during awards season, with ten Academy Award nominations, and out of those 10 nominations, 6 wins (sound, score, visuals effects, production design, editing and cinematography). Fans were eagerly awaiting its sequel, after the Actor and Writers strikes of 2023 delayed the film's release by 6 months.

Thankfully in March 2024, the film finally released in cinemas across the globe, to outstanding results. Similar to the fist film, it has amazing reviews, with a 92% critics score this time around, and 95% audience score, not to mention, the 8.6 on IMDB that sees the film ranked #32 of all time! The film has also grossed over $711 million at the worldwide box office to date, showing the audience are obsessed with this new space opera! Dune: Part Two, picks up where chapter 1 left off, Paul Atreides (played again by Timothée Chalamet) has now united with Chani (played again by Zendeya) and the Fremen, while seeking revenge against the conspirators that destroyed his family and killed his father! After, what feels like an eternity waiting for this much anticipated follow-up to Dune, I have to say, the anticipation here was worth it, as Dune: Part Two, may just be one of the best sequels of all time and in fact, one of the best science-fiction films ever made!

Whilst Dune has Frank Herbert’s classic source material to fall back on, its really the adaptation here that deserves recognition. Denis Villeneuve not only directed the film, but also adapted the screenplay for the big screen. The film is absolutely flawless in its execution, doubling down on almost everything to make it bigger, more exciting and filled with even more action and breathtaking visuals. Villeneuve’s direction, paired with director of photography’s Greig Fraser gorgeous vision, marries beautifully to create one of the most beautiful and visceral experiences I have ever had the pleasure of watching. The film deserves every bit of praise from a technical standpoint, as practical effects and appropriate uses of CGI effects, add to the overall scope and feel of the world. It feels dirty, lived in and dangerous, which is what I want from my sci-fi flicks. Special shout out to Hans Zimmer as well here. His epic score is one for the ages, he created something truly memorable and iconic, that suits this world and has given the Arrakis a sound that won’t soon be forgotten. Dare I say it's up there with John Williams Star Wars score.

Another aspect here that is enthralling, is the representation of these characters. We get stunning characterisation here of these characters, growing in ways we didn’t expect (unless you have read the book obviously). Paul’s turn as a character is one we didn’t want to see, but one that felt natural in the context of the story and the conclusion for his character. The reason this turn works so well, is because of Timothée Chalamet memorable turn as Paul Atreides is easily, for me anyway, his best work to date. Granted, he has had two films to fully round out this character, but it’s the subtleties in his performance that make the end of the film work. He sells the transformation of the character as he turns almost into a villain himself, and I don’t think too many actors could do what Chalamet does here. He is mesmerising on screen.

The other strengths lie in the supporting cast of the film. Zendeya gets a much larger role here as Chani, flexing her acting chops and given a lot to do in the role. She really is the heart and soul of the film and I think she does a terrific job. We have other returning cast members here with Javier Bardem as Stilgar, Rebecca Fergusson as Jessica, Josh Brolin as Gurney, Dave Bautista as Beast and Stellan Skarsgard as the baron. All do a fine job here. But the real strengths for me lie in the newcomers to the cast, Christopher Walken plays the Emperor, Florence Pugh plays Princess Irulan and Austin Butler plays Feyd-Rauth. Butler essentially plays the film's main antagonist, and given he is best known for his Academy Award nominated portrayal as Elvis Prseley in 2021, it was refreshing to see him take on a role like this. He is bald, incredibly white and downright sadistic and he aims up here, delivering a memorable performance in the role.

Overall, ‘Dune: Part 2’ was an absolute blast from start to finish. With a hefty story, stooped in deep mythology and lore, the film never drags, with all of its plot revelations and character interactions given a chance to breathe. The first film laid the platform so that this film could soar, as it improves in nearly every way.  Everything works so well here. Its impressive cast are all given a chance to shine, with Chalamet showcasing his star power and Zendeya stealing many of her scenes. I hope to see more in this awesome world, and I can’t wait to see it again! Be sure to secure your copy today on DVD, Blu-Ray or 4K ultra HD today from Sanity, you won’t want to miss it.

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Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here