Dune: Part Two (2024)

Denis Villeneuve returns to the vast deserts of Arrakis with Dune: Part Two, the highly anticipated follow-up to his 2021 adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi masterpiece. This time, Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) embraces his Fremen heritage and potential as the Kwisatz Haderach, all while navigating a complex web of political intrigue and impending war. 

While Part Two unquestionably builds on the stunning visuals and world-building established in the first film, it falters slightly in its emotional core. The grand scale often overshadows character development, leaving some relationships feeling underdeveloped. For instance, the simmering romance between Paul and Chani (Zendaya) feels rushed, despite Zendaya’s captivating screen presence.

However, the film excels when it digs into the complexities of power, fanaticism, and ecological responsibility. The Fremen’s struggle against the ruthless Harkonnens resonates in our current climate crisis, prompting us to consider the true cost of resource exploitation. Stellan Skarsgård chews the scenery with glee as the grotesquely villainous Baron Harkonnen, while Rebecca Ferguson delivers another powerhouse performance as Paul’s enigmatic mother, Lady Jessica.

The technical aspects are, unsurprisingly, phenomenal. The Hans Zimmer score is a sonic marvel, perfectly complementing the film’s epic visuals. The sandworm sequences are even more awe-inspiring than before, using CGI seamlessly to create creatures that feel both terrifying and majestic. The use of colour is particularly noteworthy, with the film’s palette shifting from the harsh oranges and browns of Arrakis to the cooler blues and greens of Chani’s visions, effectively highlighting the contrast between Paul’s harsh reality and his potential future.

The editing is brisk, making sure the film’s nearly three-hour runtime never feels like a slog, although some might find the pacing slightly uneven, particularly in the expository middle section. The dialogue, while not overly quotable, is functional and propels the plot forward. 

Dune: Part Two is a visually stunning and thought-provoking sci-fi epic that expands upon the universe established in the first film. While it might not quite deliver on emotional depth, it’s a more-than-worthy sequel that will leave you thirsty for more of this unique story. So go see it! And see it on a large screen to fully appreciate the breathtaking images and powerful, emotionally charged score. 

(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)