by Rosa Parra
One of the most anticipated films of 2024 is finally upon us. “Dune: Part 2” picks up where Part 1 left off. Directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, Stellan Skarsgard, Javier Bardem, and Christopher Walken, it follows Paul Atreides (Chalamet), Chani (Zendaya), and the Fremen as Paul seeks revenge on those who conspired against his family.
Rebecca Ferguson stands out in her return performance as Lady Jessica .
First, I came into this film not reading any source material, not enjoying the first film, and not seeing the original films. I’m being introduced to this world via Villeneuve. Before screening this sequel, I rewatched the first film, which helped me immensely.
The film opens with Hans Zimmer’s score and a voiceover by Princess Irulan (Pugh), instantly transporting me into this world. The combination of the sound design, visuals, score, acting and story results in a palpable and visceral experience that deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible with the finest sound system. The build-up from the first movie fits perfectly with the character’s development, which pays off in the third act. A third act that left me speechless and in awe. The battle sequences are epic! Destined to be a part of the cultural zeitgeist.
Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha.
Chalamet, Pugh, Butler and Zendaya performances are strong but the ones who stand out in this film are Ferguson and Bardem. Chalamet delivers an expansive performance, beginning as an innocent naive young man to becoming a confident commanding messiah. Ferguson is menacing as the complicated mother who refuses to dismiss her prophecy. However, it’s Bardem as a convincing fundamentalist who delivers my favorite performance. He effortlessly delivers a believable depiction of a religious person with the perfect comedic timing for levity.
I loved the rich mythology, political machinations, betrayal, and the exploration of religion, faith, and prophecies. It’s incredible how we get intimate moments perfectly blended into the wide scope of this world. We experience the world’s immensity while also getting a glimpse of the people who have the entire society in their hands.
The visuals were stunning. And the score from Zimmer effortlessly infuses itself into the epic sound design. Something as simple as riding a sandworm becomes one of the most suspenseful scenes, thanks to the character’s arc, story buildup, Zimmer’s score and Denis’s direction.
The film’s pacing is impeccable, thanks to the editing and rich mythology. Nearing the 180-minute mark, it doesn’t feel that long. This is bound to become a staple of cinema in general (expanding the parameters of its genre).
Overall, “Dune: Part 2” is the perfect filmmaking tapestry where every fiber is meticulously woven to create the perfect film. It’s an epic masterful cinematic experience.
5/5
Film Critic, Rosa Parra, also contributes to The Daily Chela and Rotten Tomatoes. You can also follow her on her TWITTER.