Dune Part Two Is What A Book Adaptation Should Be

Frank Herbert’s 1965 sci-fi epic Dune is a beast of a story. Not because it’s long or because of its diction, but because of the complexity within its plots and characters. 

Set in the distant future, humanity has abandoned Earth and formed a large feudal empire in space. Humans have discovered a substance known as “spice” which supports interstellar travel and extends lifespans, psychotropic abilities and in some cases allows clairvoyance. It’s highly addictive and is a symbol of power, so the Imperium oppresses the native Freeman population in order to control the spice trade.

The House Atreides was betrayed on Arrakis by the Harkonnens and the Emperor. They are nearly wiped out. Paul and his mother, the Bene Gesserit Lady Jessica, escape to the desert where Paul discovers strange qualities about himself. 

Part Two, which was released in March, expands Paul’s role as a potential hero. The Bene Gesserit have long prophesied a messiah that will liberate the Freeman and bring life back to the desert planet Arrakis, a prophecy that Paul seems to fit. But is he going to be Arrakis’ savior or next oppressor? 

Dune:Part Two explores the corruption within politics and religion and how power can change a person. On one hand Paul wants to help the Freeman and fights alongside them while falling in love with Chani. On the other hand, he wants revenge on the Harkonnens and the Imperium for the death of his father and House Atreides. 

Through Timothee Chalamet’s captivating performance, audiences are taken on Paul’s journey to becoming a leader, as well as his corruption from power and vengeance. Paul’s visions warned him of the potential danger of embracing the prophecy and exploiting the Freeman’s devotion toward it. But after numerous Harkonnen attacks and the temptation of power, he is forced to bend his morals.

The movie does not shy away from its source material’s complexity. Instead it embraces it and forces audiences to think. As a fan of the book, I noticed some changes. One that I really liked was the change to Chani’s character. The movie gives Paul’s love interest more agency as a character and has her criticize his actions rather than follow him blindly. It adds depth to their relationship and places them on more equal footing. 

The cinematography and special effects are astounding as the film brings Herbert’s unique worlds to life. The scenes on Giedi Prime are shot in infrared to capture what the heavily polluted black-sunned planet would look like. It also emphasizes the harshness of House Harkonnen since the scenes are devoid of color. 

Returning cast members and new characters all give stellar performances with Austin Butler as the psychotic Feyd-Rautha and Florence Pugh as the wise Princess Irulan stealing all the scenes they are in. Once again, Rebecca Ferguson enraptured audiences highlighting the mystery and moral grayness of Lady Jessica, and Stellan Skarsgård transforms into the grotesque Baron Harkonnen with impressive prosthetics,  embracing the character’s evil nature.

Hollywood can be hit or miss with book adaptations. However, director Denis Villeneuve successfully captures the novel’s essence, while making slight updates for a 21st century audience. Whether you are a fan of the book, sci-fi nerd or casual movie goer, Dune Part Two offers a compelling story that is worth watching.