Why I Freaking Love Dune - Part Two

The Foibles of the Fremen and their White Savior

Aug 02, 2024

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If you follow me on social media, it’s no surprise to you that I absolutely ADORE Dune - Part Two from Denis Villeneuve1. He’s become my favorite filmmaker, in fact, because of the absolutely absurd run he’s made. Here’s the freaking list:

Enemy (2013)
Prisoners (2013)
Sicario (2015)
Arrival (2016)
Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
Dune - Part One (2021)
Dune - Part Two (2024)

He’s directed some of my favorite films of the modern era. The run from Sicario to Dune Part Two is basically my vision of a perfect sweep, with some astounding masterclasses in science fiction.

But wait, let’s back up. This isn’t about Denis2. It’s about DUNE PART TWO and why I FREAKING LOVED every second of its 2-hour, 45-minute runtime.

Why I Freaking Love "Dune - Part Two"

My journey with the "Dune" universe started with the Sci-Fi channel miniseries in the early 2000s. Despite its lower budget, it captivated me and set the stage for my excitement when I saw "Dune" (2021). The first film was a visual feast with compelling characters, quickly landing a spot in my top 10 all-time movies. So, naturally, my anticipation for "Dune - Part Two" was off the charts—and it did not disappoint.

Key Highlights

I freaking loved so many moments from this film. The scene where Chani and Paul ambush a Harkonnen crawler and use a rocket launcher to take out an ornithopter? Intense!

Paul's journey south and his speech to the Fremen are dizzying and perfect reminders of the pitfalls of religious zealotry and charismatic leaders. Chani's perspective—watching helplessly as her people are swept up by this false messiah—offers a poignant critique of the white savior trope. This scene had me on the edge of my seat.3

The scenes on the Harkonnen homeworld, Giedi Prime, are visually striking. The use of infrared technology to invert some of the visuals, including 'black' fireworks, feeds into the oppressive tone of the Harkonnen family.

And that final fight between Paul and Feyd? Gripping. Especially when Paul shouts down the Reverend Mother with "SILENCE" in the Voice4, leaving her in stunned horror.

Themes

"Dune—Part Two" is a cautionary tale about false messiahs and political violence incited by the cult of the charismatic leader. It resonates deeply, reflecting on the dangers of unchecked power and blind faith.

Visions and Sound

Cinematographer Greig Fraser continues to amaze with his work, adding "Dune - Part Two" to his impressive resume, which includes "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," "Lion," and "The Batman." Hans Zimmer's score is booming, and the IMAX experience envelops you in the fervor that the Fremen feel. The music, almost liturgical with its choral elements, incites riotous pandemonium within the audience, pulling you into the Fremen’s religious movement and their subsequent holy war.

Denis, King

As I said before, Denis Villeneuve continues to release visually arresting, meaty stories filled with nuanced characters and challenging themes. "Dune - Part Two," combined with Part One, stands as a testament to powerful story adaptations and a spiritually faithful tribute to Frank Herbert's novel. Villeneuve's direction ensures that the film is not just a visual spectacle but a deeply engaging and thought-provoking experience.

Conclusion

"Dune - Part Two" is a cinematic masterpiece that captures the essence of Frank Herbert's epic saga while delivering a powerful commentary on contemporary issues. Its stunning visuals, compelling performances, and resonant themes make it a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. I freaking love this movie, and I can't wait to see how the saga continues to unfold. If you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and experience it on the biggest screen possible.

Which is why it is now my #1 favorite movie of all time on my I FREAKING LOVE THAT MOVIE list. You can see my top 5 below.