Dennis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Part Two,” released on March 1, 2024, has solidified “Dune” as one of the most acclaimed and popular science fiction franchises. Based on the classic novel by Frank Herbert, the film series follows Paul Atreides, a powerful “chosen one” whose destiny is entangled in a vast, interplanetary war. Recently, many critics and audiences have taken notice of the striking resemblance between “Dune” and the iconic “Star Wars” franchise.
Before diving into this review, I’ll preface by confessing that as a longtime “Star Wars” fan, I watched every “Star Wars” movie before even knowing about the existence of “Dune.” But much to my disappointment (and despite any bias I might hold), I believe “Star Wars” has finally been dethroned.
Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Paul Atreides is one of “Dune’s” greatest strengths. Paul presents a departure from the classic prophetic hero archetype. Instead of genuinely being destined to bring peace and prosperity through his leadership, he’s simply the subject of a false religion planted centuries in the past. This unique approach to the “chosen one” narrative introduces a level of complexity lacking in “Star Wars,” a series infamous for playing into long-exhausted formulas. Additionally, the power struggle between various factions, such as the brutal House Harkonnen, the manipulative Bene Gesserit Sisterhood, and the resilient House Atreides, never failed to keep me on the edge of my seat.
“Dune’s” enthralling plot is enhanced by stellar visuals. While many dull, sandy landscapes seen throughout the films failed to attract my attention, the cinematography is stunning overall. A standout example is the introductory fight scene of Feyd Rautha (Austin Butler), shot using a special infrared film camera to create a unique effect and viewing experience. The cinematography of “Star Wars,” in comparison, is flat and disjointed, especially considering how little its use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) holds up today.
Both “Dune” and “Star Wars” feature immersive universes with diverse cultures, planets, and histories. While “Dune” offers a detailed galaxy shaped by intricate politics and mystical religions, it doesn’t necessarily surpass “Star Wars” in the area of worldbuilding. Despite its depth, “Dune” inevitably faces the challenge of effectively translating the book’s complex setting to the screen. In contrast, “Star Wars” benefits from decades of expansion, allowing fans to explore its universe in greater detail. And so, while “Dune” holds its own in worldbuilding, it doesn’t have a significant advantage over the depth and expansiveness of the galaxy far, far away.
Overall, the “Dune” franchise offers a fresh take on the sci-fi genre, with a captivating plot and strong character portrayal. For those seeking a thought-provoking and visually stunning sci-fi experience, I strongly recommend “Dune.” Its unique approach to storytelling and complex characters make it a standout, giving it a slight edge over more established franchises such as “Star Wars.”
“Dune: Part One”: 8.5/10
“Dune: Part Two”: 9.5/10
