Within the chaotic release through the pandemic, Dune captured the attention of many, but for me, while it was a technical masterpiece, it lacked a story. At the time, everyone told me how the story is built, so fast forward three years, and Dune: Part Two is set to hit theaters on March 1, 2024. I will share my spoiler-free film review and let you know if it's worth checking out.
Paul Atreies (Timothee Chalamet) teams up with Chani (Zendaya) and Fremen (Rand Faris) to seek revenge against the people who destroyed his family. Throughout the chase, Paul and Chani's relationship heats up, but with the fate of the universe hanging in the balance, he attempts to prevent a terrible future only he can see.
It's hard to go in-depth about my love for this film without divulging deep spoilers, but I will say that the stories, connections, and passion from the stories of these characters lacking in the first film were front and center in Part Two. I felt emotionally connected to Paul Atreides and every decision he was forced to make in one of the best-written character arcs I've seen in a long time.
Timothee Chalamet proves he is a bonafide star
Dune: Part Two is a film on a large scale with its massive set pieces, larger-than-life characters, and fight sequences, which are all mesmerizing. That said, Timothee Chalamet delivers one of the best performances I've ever seen in a movie of this scale. Time and time again, Chalamet proves he is a bonafide star as he does much of the heavy lifting in putting Paul Atreides and this revenge-filled journey on his back. You see Chalamet transform into almost three versions of Paul in each act of the film. The culmination of the build of this character is met with such a powerful closing sequence you won't soon forget.
Everybody saw me rant and rave about the movie star that Austin Butler is after watching Elvis, followed by Bikeriders and, more recently, Masters of Air. However, his performance as Fey-Rautha, my goodness, it set a chill down my spine with how terrifying he was within this role. Albeit a little smaller role than I expected, his presence was felt in every scene.
From Rebecca Ferguson and her jumpscare voice as Lady Jessica to Josh Brolin as Gurney Halleck to Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan, I could go on and on, but each person in this cast elevated this film when on screen. But Zendaya, this was a performance of her career as she lit up my world with as much heart and emotion as Chani. She brought such a grounded level to Paul that felt so necessary in the overall story.
Technically speaking, Denis Villeneuve delivers yet another epic sci-fi with his out-of-this-world direction. You expect this movie to fall in the same line as the original and be that technical masterpiece, but somehow, Villeneuve raises the bar. The set pieces, costumes, production, and every element of this movie is a masterclass on bringing cinema to life.
Ultimately, Dune: Part Two is one of the greatest cinematic experiences I've had in my life. This was perfect with jaw-dropping visuals, poignant storytelling, and an ensemble to die for. It's rare for me to use the word masterpiece, but this is that. If the run time of two hours and forty minutes scares you, don't be scared. As someone who doesn't love long movies, this felt like a breeze. Please see this on the biggest screen you can possibly find in your town.
Dune: Part Two is in theaters on March 1, 2024.