Dune: Part One
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: October 22, 2021
7.9
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 1601 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
1,294
Mixed:
153
Negative:
154
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
WihglahOct 28, 2021
A thoroughly epic movie in all regards. Cinematography is peerless, CGI is undetectable, Acting is superb (even from Bautista - who has come a long way in a very short space of time), and the timing / flow is gripping. I felt involved withA thoroughly epic movie in all regards. Cinematography is peerless, CGI is undetectable, Acting is superb (even from Bautista - who has come a long way in a very short space of time), and the timing / flow is gripping. I felt involved with the story and attached to the characters from the get go.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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10
german25_sweetOct 22, 2021
When I left the hall, I was covered in sweat. A great picture and a soundtrack . The second film should definitely be.
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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10
BCNick22Oct 22, 2021
Big fan of the book and wasn't let down at all! Faithful (first half) representation. Dennis V has now made 3 superb movies : Prisoners, Blade Runner 2 and Dune. Arrival was trash. This is up there with blade runner but I can't say it'sBig fan of the book and wasn't let down at all! Faithful (first half) representation. Dennis V has now made 3 superb movies : Prisoners, Blade Runner 2 and Dune. Arrival was trash. This is up there with blade runner but I can't say it's better until I see the second part. Great job!… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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10
aguscornNov 5, 2021
Denis Villeneuve has to be one of the best filmakers today. Not everyone can do what he has done with Dune. It's a beautiful story, especially thanks to its visuals, score, and a great performance from Rebecca Ferguson.
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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10
Ponds98Nov 2, 2021
MY GOD what I've seen, I don't remember the last time I watched a Sci-fi movie so brilliant and outstanding like this one.
The soundtrack is something of another world, the atmosphere, the characters and the acting...incredible.
The shots ofMY GOD what I've seen, I don't remember the last time I watched a Sci-fi movie so brilliant and outstanding like this one.
The soundtrack is something of another world, the atmosphere, the characters and the acting...incredible.
The shots of Arrakis are pure beauty, this movie is the definition of Sci-fi magnificence and I'll repeat: the soundtrack is brilliant and incredible, Zimmer the new John Williams.
It will be the next big saga of cinema history after LOTR, Harry Potter etc.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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5
hesnotdrunkOct 24, 2021
As many others have pointed out, the film is indeed a bore. A beautiful bore. The pacing places a heavy preference of world-building over story. Aesthetics are well done, with solid performances from the cast, and Villeneuve does his bestAs many others have pointed out, the film is indeed a bore. A beautiful bore. The pacing places a heavy preference of world-building over story. Aesthetics are well done, with solid performances from the cast, and Villeneuve does his best considering the studio system, but the film simply seems like a starting point for a franchise rather than a film with its own legs. This is similar to the Mad Max franchise, where the first film slowly sets up the rest of the spectacular sequels that follow. Hopefully, the sequels will outperform this beautiful dud.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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10
RobpsaOct 22, 2021
Wow, put the page onto the screen in a masterful achievement by Denis V. Best movie of the year
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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10
beno1998Nov 6, 2021
This movie was absolutely fabulous. The story, the characters and the acting is superb.
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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3
EFRAMOct 23, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. DUNE REVIEW

I am an avowed DUNE-ophile as I have read all the books and seen every iteration of them. I am also a director and creator of scripted content working in the industry as we speak. I was interested to see how Denis Villeneuve would handle this iconic masterpiece. To say I was disappointed and saddened in what I saw is an understatement. Where the book is vivid, insightful, groundbreaking, engrossing and impactful, Villeneuve’s film is lackluster, plodding, bereft of emotion, stark, and muddled. Let’s begin with the sets. Villeneuve is a stylist, a director who uses his environments as a character. This obfuscates what I believe is his inability to tell engrossing original stories. By his own admission, Bladerunner 2049 was a flop. Arrival, adapted from a great book fell into confusion and over intellectualization in his hands and now with DUNE his inability to tell an engrossing, complete intense story comes into real focus. Villeneuve is a talented director in certain respects. But even here, his set pieces dwarf his actors and their acting, as if the characters are subordinate to the set pieces instead of integral to their relevance. Caladan is a stark, dreary, grayscale world where the only inhabitants are a sullen, forlorn group of royals who have no joy or meaning in their lives even though they have been tasked with overseeing the most important element in the universe; SPICE, the substance that binds all the houses of the Landsraad together is glossed over and never fully explained as the most important substance in the universe as it enables the space guild to fold space and without it the Imperial empire would collapse. Even David Lynch got this plot point right. The scene where the Atreide’s move from Caladan to Arrakis was particularly annoying as the real uses of Spice was never explained and the guild and its masters were never seen or even given one bit of critical story attention, leaving an audience who never read the book to wander in oblivion as one of the key tenets of Herbert’s books was completely overlooked. Arrakis is portrayed as an unpopulated Toy set with no people and a monochromatic sepia laden landscape, void of life and 10,000 years of history.
Even David Lynch’s uneven if interesting version of DUNE created characters that were memorable. The Harkonnen’s in Lynch’s world are brutal, vlolent, debauched and dangerous. Remember the heart plug scene, or the pustules, or the servants with their eyes and mouths sewn shut, indelible images that enhance the brutality of the Harkonnen’s. Nothing like that here. Here they are fixtures acting like they are dangerous and brutal, but they come across as characterizations of something that begs to be illuminated but never is and deprives the film of a credible frightening antagonist.
Relationships are muddy and ineffective. The intense love relationship between Duke Leto Atreides and his concubine Jessica is poorly dealt with, just glossed over and in this Villeneuve has made a critical error as their relationship forms the lynchpin and motivation of the entire storyline. Timothy Chalamee’s Paul is sullen, melancholy, and ineffective instead of the conflicted, intense, emotionally driven, passionate and confident Paul of the books. In fact, all of the acting is as bleak as the sets, lost in quiet introspective emotions when big broad character choices are called for, if nothing else, to match the import of the story they are telling. Only Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem break this monotony.
Jason Momoa’s Duncan Idaho is smirky and self-important and Momoa acts as if he doesn’t believe his own acting. All the characters are slightly drawn and ineffective and what’s more we have no idea who they really are, where they came from or what their motivations might be, which is frustrating and shows laziness on Villeneuve’s part. Understanding who these characters are and what their motivations are is essential to understand everything else in DUNE and at every turn they prove to be less than adequate to portray Herbert’s intensely drawn arcs. If we do not understand his characters motivations, there is no reason to go any further in watching this film.
Style over substance is what I’ve always thought about Villeneuve and his work and this version of DUNE proves just that. Not to mention that this is just HALF of the film, so now the audience has to shell out more money to watch a film that should’ve been a one-time event. Self-absorption and hubris are always a bad combination in anything, especially film making that costs over 200 million dollars. To really see what is so amazing about Herbert’s definitive Space Opera, take the time to read the book and let your own imagination create the world that Herbert intended.… Expand
14 of 32 users found this helpful1418
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4
arrivistOct 23, 2021
What is wrong with people. This is like the Dark Knight all over again, where reviewers have bought into the hype and put objectivity aside. Very poor. Flat, monochromatic cinematography. Badly acted and directed. Much of the the dialogue wasWhat is wrong with people. This is like the Dark Knight all over again, where reviewers have bought into the hype and put objectivity aside. Very poor. Flat, monochromatic cinematography. Badly acted and directed. Much of the the dialogue was incomprehensible. CGI garbage all over the screen. It looks cheap and lifeless compared to Lynch's version.… Expand
10 of 23 users found this helpful1013
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6
CalvinCrackOct 23, 2021
The main sin that Dune commits is being boring. A movie can be many things but it can’t be boring. I appreciate their detail in obviously keeping to the book, but the movie felt like watching a book and that’s not what I want. Another bigThe main sin that Dune commits is being boring. A movie can be many things but it can’t be boring. I appreciate their detail in obviously keeping to the book, but the movie felt like watching a book and that’s not what I want. Another big problem is the failure to have a worthy climax or self contained payoff within this movie.

They tried with (*****spoiler*****Paul defeating the freman who challenged them *****end spoiler*****). But Paul being a great fighter wasn’t exactly how I saw his core struggle. That seems like more of a side story to deal with his responsibilities as future leader. If that was going to be the movie’s pay off they could have built that up more earlier so that scene hit harder.

The movie just felt shapeless. I understand that it’s part one but they needed to find more of an arc to this individual tale to make it work as a movie. They went hard on the Paul’s interior dreams and visions angle, but that stuff didn’t really work for me. It’s hard to translate to film and in my opinion they actually overdid it with the same dream flash again and again. I could’ve done with less of that and more of advancing the plot further.

I also wasn’t a big fan of the music and found it quite distracting at times particularly when the loud chorus of female voices would suddenly ring out.

It may seem from my mostly negative review that I didn’t like the movie but I did enjoy a great deal of it, and I’m optimistic that a dynamite part two will improve this part in retrospect. For now though I must award this movie a 6/10.… Expand
13 of 30 users found this helpful1317
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6
georgiadrewOct 24, 2021
The movie dragged on and on with way too many fight and battle scenes. It lacked "heart and soul" to bring the plot together and was just a bunch of unrelated scenes.
13 of 30 users found this helpful1317
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5
Dsros96Oct 23, 2021
Dense, there's a lot going on at the same time & somehow nothing happens. Probably will get better with a sequel.
6 of 14 users found this helpful68
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9
seculamihaiOct 22, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Denis Villeneuve tried to simplify the story and complex universe of the Dune books. I can understand his decision. It is almost impossible to put on screen in two hours in all its complexity, the world created by Frank Herbert. He completely gave up certain characters, such as Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, and chose not to introduce others directly, Emperor Padisah Shadam IV. I suspect that he keeps them for the second part, if there will be another second part, because it is impossible to take the narrative line to the end without them. It is possible that it will be a paractic, financial decision because this would have involved hiring two more important actors to appear in only two scenes. Possible.
I liked it because it managed to capture the atmosphere of the books. The costumes and visuals are gorgeous.
I didn't like that he didn't even briefly explain, through dialogue, fundamental notions for the Dune universe such as the Guild, the shield, the Butlerian Jihad, the total lack of computers in the universe, the orange Catholic Bible
That's all...… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
CutlosoOct 22, 2021
Having read the book a hundred years ago, it took some time to begin to understand what was going on. If there is a criticism that many share, it is the pacing of the first part of the film. It needed something to set the scene for us, toHaving read the book a hundred years ago, it took some time to begin to understand what was going on. If there is a criticism that many share, it is the pacing of the first part of the film. It needed something to set the scene for us, to show us who the strong and the weak were. I'm not much for narration (show me, don't tell me), but it may not have been a bad idea. The scenes are magnificent with special effects off the chart. Many desert travel scenes are quite endless. How do you spruce up a desert. I thought the sand worms were a little one dimensional. I know there is another film down the road.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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5
RufusvegasOct 29, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The film is beautiful to look at and listen to, and the casting is surprisingly strong (I was initially sceptical of some of the choices). Unfortunately the treatment of the source material, whilst maintaining the main plot points, isn't great.

Spoilers from here:

Pivotal characters such as Use and Thuffir receive extremely little screen time, meaning that their relationship to Paul and the Atreides is inconsequential to the film. This is particularly glaring when use commits his betrayal, which simply doesn't carry the emotional weight that it should. Similarly, the machinations of the empire are barely given lip service, much of the motivations for the driving factors in the plot are reduced to single lines delivered casually by key characters in scenes that were probably quite heavily edited.

This film works as a visual accompaniment to the book, but is weak as a stand alone movie.

Watching this film made me yearn to see what could've been done if Dune were a trilogy, rather than a two part.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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8
AfricanWhiteyDec 9, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie looks good and is mostly enjoyable. However the changes made to score points with the wokesters feel a bit silly. Paul kills Jamis who they made black, therefore a young white kid kills a diversity hire, might irk sensitive types. Also the newly Asian Dr. Yueh betrays his training and House Atreides which looks stereotypical.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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8
skeletorcaresOct 27, 2021
Did a lot of things well, very faithful to the source material, I am just scared that dividing up the book into 2 parts (which we might never see part 2, or it might never get made, slated for 2023(!)) was the wrong choice. Jessica is so wellDid a lot of things well, very faithful to the source material, I am just scared that dividing up the book into 2 parts (which we might never see part 2, or it might never get made, slated for 2023(!)) was the wrong choice. Jessica is so well cast and played though, she might be my favorite character. For a two and a half hour runtime still felt quick on screen. The special effects and design are great, the sound design is good.

I wonder if people that don't know the source material liked it as much, because there is so much there under the surface.

I'm still just worried about Part 2+, specifically Paul's sister, Alia, that's going to be near impossible to do onscreen, and they've set up a very "humanized" version of Dune.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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8
PhoenixReveiwsOct 23, 2021
A slow start but a great choice as it allows for you to care more about characters as it goes along. I'm glad it's only part one as the book has an abundance of story and the original movie had a lot of story gaps in it. Now in 2021 actuallyA slow start but a great choice as it allows for you to care more about characters as it goes along. I'm glad it's only part one as the book has an abundance of story and the original movie had a lot of story gaps in it. Now in 2021 actually has the CGI capabilities of a good Dune movie where the old one lacked, and the casting choices were honestly some of the best I've seen in a while. The music by Hans Zimmer was really profound without being in your face. Overall I really enjoyed the movie, but some people unfamiliar with the franchise might have a little trouble understanding parts of it (I'm not an expert on it, but understood it fine.)… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
RUSTYSPOKESNov 4, 2021
Having watched the first big screen attempt by David Lynch in 1983, in a theater, and being sorely disappointed; this is light years ahead of that sorry effort. Looking forward to part two and hopefully the appearances of Feyd Ratha and theHaving watched the first big screen attempt by David Lynch in 1983, in a theater, and being sorely disappointed; this is light years ahead of that sorry effort. Looking forward to part two and hopefully the appearances of Feyd Ratha and the emperor. This is outstanding sci-fi the way it is meant to be. This is a 155 minute run time and my bladder never knew, holds your attention from start to finish. Best on screen telling of Frank Herbert's Dune to date.… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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9
bleeeksOct 23, 2021
An all-time great, overshadowed by the currently yet to be greenlit sequel, without which "Dune: Part 1" has no real reason to exist. Fantastic movie nonetheless, every shot is beautiful and the score ties it together perfectly.
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
WAmadeusMNov 2, 2021
Possibly the nearest anyone under 40 will get to cinema time travel - to travel without moving to 1960 or 1962 and experience the opening reels of Spartacus and Lawrence of Arabia - depth, grandeur, vision, beauty, terror....

all without thePossibly the nearest anyone under 40 will get to cinema time travel - to travel without moving to 1960 or 1962 and experience the opening reels of Spartacus and Lawrence of Arabia - depth, grandeur, vision, beauty, terror....

all without the fourth wall shattering skittish joke reflex that has created the disposable ChurnWesterns of the 21st century - MCU stakeless spreadsheet superhero popcorn side dish

So, largest screen possible - centre seat - prepare.... to travel.....

in Denis Villeneuve's visual poem of Frank Herbert's prose fever dream...… Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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2
HirokaizenDec 14, 2021
The movie should just be 90 minute max this is boring and almost made me snooze. Too much Hype and it failed to deliver. The action part was alright but too many boring scene it could be better 2/10
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
JonAMOct 22, 2021
Superb narrative. It is a slow movie, but that's how it builds memorable characters. Looking forward for chapter 2.
8 of 19 users found this helpful811
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1
MrinalKantiOct 25, 2021
This movie largely caters to the audience that are familiar with the novel. A lot of screen time is wasted on building up the atmosphere for the visuals with little time for the narration given how much plot is covered within the runtime ofThis movie largely caters to the audience that are familiar with the novel. A lot of screen time is wasted on building up the atmosphere for the visuals with little time for the narration given how much plot is covered within the runtime of two and half hours. May be the plot might have been original when it was first established in the novel but offers nothing new for the viewers who have been following any of the pop culture icons of modern times. Game of thrones meets Mass Effect meets Arabian Nights. Its like some of the iconic set pieces from these popular shows and games were blended with a Christoper Nolan style visuals to secure a solid box office launch. The rich visuals only cater to those who are familiar with the plot but it does little to cover the story for those who are being introduced to the franchise for the first time. It was like watching the first episode of some sci-fi show that could have been condensed to 45 mins worth of plot instead of 2.5 hours if they just toned down the visuals.… Expand
10 of 24 users found this helpful1014
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4
SarrrNov 7, 2021
The concept of the film is completely incomprehensible. On the one hand, it shows just that beautiful overview footage to demonstrate the "epicness" of what is going on, while on the other hand it instantly cuts off sometimes very importantThe concept of the film is completely incomprehensible. On the one hand, it shows just that beautiful overview footage to demonstrate the "epicness" of what is going on, while on the other hand it instantly cuts off sometimes very important details for the narrative of the story, including some narrative lines and characters.

I enjoyed the first part of the film (before the flight to Arrakis), and frankly, I'm very saddened by everything after the middle of the film. It's just one mess. Where clarification is needed for people who haven't read the book at all, no voice-over narration is done, no main character talk. Just a picture: the one who needs it will understand. This is very bad!

Cast 50-50. Personally, I liked the cast, but the play of individual actors here is exactly the opposite. Personally, I thought Oscar Isaac was cast for nothing as Leto Atreides, but he played it perfectly. The wonderful Stellan Skarsgard (Vladimir Harkonnen), on the other hand, is simply awful. Instead of the strong (as a person), ruthless and cunning ruler of the House of Harkonnen, we are shown some butcher-burner with incomprehensible motivation from the principle of a harmful child.

Also some of the characters have had their gender and racial identity changed to please modern tolerance. It is not clear why. Apparently, just to make it happen.


Seems to me (looking specifically at the first half of the film) Villeneuve and Warner Bros. in general should have made not a two-part film, but an extended ten-part film without limiting themselves to the time frame. Use the expansion of Herbert's (canonical) universe, especially since there are more than enough books written. And certainly don't change the gender of the characters, cut out events important to the narrative, and explain what's going on to the audience. I don't think voice-over is a good move in modern filmmaking, but introduce new characters, and include additional dialogues of the main characters with them, or just their conversation in the background.… Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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6
LunaticInkOct 24, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This film is beautifully shot. Paul, Gurney, and Jessica are portrayed well. The portrayal of Leto, Duncan, Stilgar, Janis, and Liet fall well short of what should have been a high bar. The Baron, Huey, and Hawat are barely seen. The film moves fast. All of the tension and build up through the first act of the book has been heavily condensed where it was not simply cut out. My wife had no idea what was going on most of the time, and I had to repeatedly pause the movie to give exposition dumps of backstory and character motivations. If you aren’t a Dune fan you might sense something is missing, and you would be right.

The picture hits the brakes when they make it to the desert. Unfortunately, this is where the film ends. I am hopeful that Villanueve will throw in more backstory and Harkonnen plotting in the second half, as this is what makes the books most enjoyable. If not it will be just another generic space opera.

Overall I am torn. I have seen the Lynch film, the Syfy series, and have read the novels, and I enjoyed them all for what they were. I was super hyped and feel a little let down. This just really didn’t do it for me.… Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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6
shoulderoforionOct 22, 2021
You know, I liked it, but I didn't love it. It needed to be at least two hours longer so, I might change my rating when and if the second part comes out many years from now. It was first class SciFi, to be sure, and on such a higher levelYou know, I liked it, but I didn't love it. It needed to be at least two hours longer so, I might change my rating when and if the second part comes out many years from now. It was first class SciFi, to be sure, and on such a higher level than the 1984 version it's incomparable. But it left me wanting, and it felt rushed in the all the wrong places, and while watching I was constantly checking the time code knowing it was going to leave me wanting.… Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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10
popochoOct 22, 2021
Do yourself a favor and go see this movie in the biggest screen possible, and with the LOUDEST sound possible. Cinema magic at it's best.
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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10
BillyMacatusOct 22, 2021
Excelente película. Muy buena fotografía, efectos visuales, banda sonora.. muy dinámica, te deja deseando ver más.. pocas películas en los últimos tiempos logran generar esta sensación.. Básicamente te tenes que remontar a las películas deExcelente película. Muy buena fotografía, efectos visuales, banda sonora.. muy dinámica, te deja deseando ver más.. pocas películas en los últimos tiempos logran generar esta sensación.. Básicamente te tenes que remontar a las películas de tolkien de peter jackson para pensar en alguna que le haga el aguante… Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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10
curranickusOct 22, 2021
Masterfully adapted. Instantly one of my all time favourites. An awesome cinematic experience that left me brimming with excitement for what is to come next!
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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10
Need2LungsOct 23, 2021
I took my daughter who is not a science fiction fan and she was in awe like me and loved it. This movie is now in my top 3 of all time favorite movies!
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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9
ClamberingSnipeOct 24, 2021
I cannot understand some of the low reviews from critics for this film. I wonder what it is they would actually do differently? It is a masterful interpretation of a famously difficult source, shot exquisitely, acted wonderfully and, mostI cannot understand some of the low reviews from critics for this film. I wonder what it is they would actually do differently? It is a masterful interpretation of a famously difficult source, shot exquisitely, acted wonderfully and, most importantly, is hugely entertaining from the first frame. I thoroughly enjoyed it and haven't been this excited for a sequel since the fellowship of the ring. Thank you Monsieur Villeneuve, Dune has finally been done justice.… Expand
5 of 12 users found this helpful57
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8
bertobellamyOct 22, 2021
'Dune' is a clear example of how a blockbuster can have an auteur's vision. Although I don't like James Cameron films —except for the Terminator ones and 'Aliens'—, he's also on that small list. And, of course, George Miller, who redefined'Dune' is a clear example of how a blockbuster can have an auteur's vision. Although I don't like James Cameron films —except for the Terminator ones and 'Aliens'—, he's also on that small list. And, of course, George Miller, who redefined the action genre with the thunderous 'Fury Road.' Denis Villeneuve did it with 'Blade Runner 2049,' and he's done it again with his version of Frank Herbert's classic.

In a time where blockbusters have to follow a strict formula to be "successful" in the box office, 'Dune' defies all expectations by going slowly, showing instead of telling almost all the time, and employing an uncommon visual style for this type of films. I mean, which action movie will dare to darken the image to the point of almost fading to black? Villeneuve took a high risk, but it was rewarding.

This feels like a good adaptation of the novel, developing the narrative in a very straightforward way, with little focus on the subplots. Almost all the characters deliver, despite some appearing as little as five minutes. But most importantly, Villeneuve and the writers keep the ecological and anti-capitalist themes of the novel, emphasizing water as the most valuable thing we have. Come on, even a character says that there is no more valuable wealth someone can offer than the water in their body.

Some could say that the film invests too much time foreshadowing the events of the hypothetical second part, but Villeneuve and his team are very clever by incorporating this into the narrative itself; the prophecy of what will become of Paul and everyone else around him. Of course, 'Dune' feels like a half, a very good one, but still incomplete. But there's no denying that Villeneuve was the right man to finally make justice to this saga.… Expand
7 of 17 users found this helpful710
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5
YouMark_Oct 22, 2021
Over rated. Just because this has a million low tear celebs (that act so dramic it’s horrible) doesn’t mean the movie is good. Couldn’t get my self to watch the other half by myself with out sleeping.
7 of 17 users found this helpful710
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10
Sigmund_CaraOct 22, 2021
What else to say about this gem, this is the kind of movie you'd dream about but never actually see... I don't know how he did it but Denis Villeneuve made Dune a reality. It would be a crime of epic proportions if part 2 wasn't greenlit...
7 of 17 users found this helpful710
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0
BabeRuthless38Oct 26, 2021
Absolutely terrible. Almost every role was catastrophically miscast, the sets looked cheap (they tried to hide it by making every interior room the size of a gymnasium), and the plot drags even though it leaves out more of the plot than theAbsolutely terrible. Almost every role was catastrophically miscast, the sets looked cheap (they tried to hide it by making every interior room the size of a gymnasium), and the plot drags even though it leaves out more of the plot than the 1984 version… Expand
13 of 32 users found this helpful1319
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9
tremaultOct 23, 2021
This is no mere movie, this is art. This is film at its best. I haven't seen a film this beautiful since Prometheus. It may not be for everybody, but if you value beautiful imagery, powerful scenes and a rich world, there is a good chance youThis is no mere movie, this is art. This is film at its best. I haven't seen a film this beautiful since Prometheus. It may not be for everybody, but if you value beautiful imagery, powerful scenes and a rich world, there is a good chance you will enjoy this experience.… Expand
6 of 15 users found this helpful69
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5
Brent_MarchantOct 22, 2021
In creating a film epic, there has to be something "epic" about it in order to qualify for that designation. Unfortunately, this latest remake of Frank Herbert's "Dune" fails on that point on so many fronts. While the special effects andIn creating a film epic, there has to be something "epic" about it in order to qualify for that designation. Unfortunately, this latest remake of Frank Herbert's "Dune" fails on that point on so many fronts. While the special effects and cinematography are indeed dazzling and the film can justifiably lay claim to yet another outstanding Hans Zimmer score, there's not much else here to grab viewer attention or evoke an emotional response. A big part of that has to do with the film's overlong, unengaging narrative, much of which is a long, cold, boring snooze and often tediously derivative in its vision, not to mention inherently and obviously incomplete. There are also casting issues aplenty, with some performers, like Timothee Chalamet and Rebecca Ferguson, being placed into roles for which they're wholly unsuited, and with others, such as Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem and Charlotte Rampling, being woefully underused. This is an uncharacteristically underwhelming effort from director Denis Villeneuve, a filmmaker best known for stellar work on pictures like "Arrival" (2016) and "Blade Runner 2049" (2017). Regrettably, this is yet another example of a much-anticipated offering that falls flat and comes nowhere close to living up to its potential.… Expand
6 of 15 users found this helpful69
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10
franciscoortizOct 22, 2021
Perfect part one setting up Paul's journey.
The score, the visuals are hypnotizing. I can see where George Lucas stole his ideas for Star Wars. Yup! Thief. No matter, Denis Villeneuve's version flows more adult and immersive. I need morePerfect part one setting up Paul's journey.
The score, the visuals are hypnotizing. I can see where George Lucas stole his ideas for Star Wars. Yup! Thief. No matter, Denis Villeneuve's version flows more adult and immersive. I need more movies in this world by Denis. Saw it on HboMax and planning to see it in theaters next.… Expand
6 of 15 users found this helpful69
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3
imthenoobNov 19, 2021
Dune is a purely visual experience that wastes its cast by giving them virtually nothing to say or do in the second half. Heck, Most of the final act of the movie is just two characters walking through the desert. I mean really, we needed 20Dune is a purely visual experience that wastes its cast by giving them virtually nothing to say or do in the second half. Heck, Most of the final act of the movie is just two characters walking through the desert. I mean really, we needed 20 minutes of that before getting something story-related? This one easily ran a good 30 minutes too long and it showed.

I had a hard time sitting through this and had to take multiple breaks throughout in order to finish. Don't think I am gonna bother with the second part.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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8
d0vla11Nov 23, 2021
From director like Denis Villeneuve is you can only expect to see a beautiful cinematic experience. Going from the well-written characters and the intriguing story to the beautiful soundtrack composed by Hans Zimmer - this is also a must-seeFrom director like Denis Villeneuve is you can only expect to see a beautiful cinematic experience. Going from the well-written characters and the intriguing story to the beautiful soundtrack composed by Hans Zimmer - this is also a must-see one like the previous blockbusters of Villeneuve's work.
The only negative i would give is the length of the movie which, in my opinion, could be a bit shortened.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
XV_Nov 1, 2021
Dune takes place in the year 10k in the future, a lot is going on now but there is this desert planet called Arrakis which has an incredibly valuable (the thing most valuable in the universe actually) element simply called Spice. This spiceDune takes place in the year 10k in the future, a lot is going on now but there is this desert planet called Arrakis which has an incredibly valuable (the thing most valuable in the universe actually) element simply called Spice. This spice thing is mined by “The Empire '' by some proxy civilization led by House Harkonnen but apparently, they are changing the exploiters to House Atreides (Timothee’s house), so the Harkonnen aren’t that happy but they have to comply. On top of that, Arrakis is inhabited by the Fremen, an advanced civilization that has been involved in this mining war but they just want to leave them and their planet alone.

On the surface level, Dune 2021 is about anticapitalism and anti-imperialism with some hero’s journey stuff going on, but there is much more to it… well at least if you’re looking for more. At first, I was somewhat skeptical, since the trailers featured a bunch of superstars and have this Marvel superhero movie which I’m sick of, but since the movie started and the plot progressed I was slowly but hooked to its premise. It does have certain things that will resonate as superhero-ish to be more palatable for a bigger audience, after all, this is a commercial movie that cost hundreds of millions of dollars, so it was kind of expected, but still, I was pleasantly surprised by how the movie has a lot of concepts and it has this “author” seal that almost tastes like high-art cinema.

Visually, Dune is stunning, a lot of work has been put into every scene, you can see many symbols and motifs here and there that will mean something to everyone. It features some huge spaceships and huge landscapes among other things that are heavily enhanced by an IMAX screen which I strongly recommend watching that way if possible. Given the scale in many scenes I almost feel that I could be there, Dune is truly mesmerizing. Every civilization feels like a different culture, with its rituals and values, what's most brilliant is that this aspect is always told with image and cinematography and rarely with expository dialogue, so you can make your interpretations about them.

Aside from many of the supporting cast actors I didn’t know what to expect from Timothee or Zendaya, I can’t say much of Zendaya still, but Timothee was really good, in some scenes, he showed that he can achieve a lot of range and he did an amazing job as the protagonist, the same can be said for any other character but he is one of the best parts of the film.

For how good and enjoyable the movie is, it isn’t a perfect movie and it has some flaws, they’re not that bad, but they are worth mentioning. Starting with its runtime, after having the first and biggest climax the plot slows down a little and by entering the final act you will certainly feel somewhat tired, maybe cutting out some of the most expository parts of the first half would make the runtime less hard to be, still, I couldn’t have it differently than it is, so who knows?. Also, the main plot features some aspects that could be a little problematic in our social environment by today's standards, for instance, it has the recurrent story of the white man freeing an oppressed civilization, it certainly has been adapted to our current standards but still, let's see how this unfolds in the second or third movie. It has other problems but they are so minimal that maybe I will just be nitpicking.

I was surprised by how Dune was executed to the point that it is simply one of the most beautiful films that I have ever seen, it also showed me how it inspired a lot of other pieces of media, most notoriously Star Wars, I haven’t seen how much Dune has to offer yet, but I’m looking forward what will come next and receive it with open arms.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
PowSmackBlamNov 13, 2021
A visually breathtaking start to this story. Excellent cast, some abrasive music, incredible art direction. The only thing that feels off is where they chose to split the two movies, a bit unsatisfying.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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1
hyiltizNov 27, 2021
Depressing background music and the flat and boring visual composition makes a marvelous story yet another boring rendition. Need a serious director and compositor to make Herbert’s legacy work.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
HeroicAge616Oct 25, 2021
Denis Villeneuve's magnum opus begins in spectacular fashion, crafting a world and experience that feels unprecedented, if unfinished.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
Edmund_Wells001Oct 26, 2021
Given the incredible depth of the novel, I think they did a good job depicting and setting up this epic conflict. The novel was not meant to be split into two parts, so this "break" is unfortunate but necessary. The cast was well-chosen andGiven the incredible depth of the novel, I think they did a good job depicting and setting up this epic conflict. The novel was not meant to be split into two parts, so this "break" is unfortunate but necessary. The cast was well-chosen and the directing does credit to the source material without overwhelming the viewer with back story, as brilliant as it is. I feel confident that watching parts 1 and 2 together will depict the epic glory of this classic tale as it was meant to be experienced.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
NateHainNov 1, 2021
This film was amazing. I saw it in theaters. The cinematography, sound design, music, acting, visuals are all amazing. I cannot recommend this film highly enough. I knew nothing about Dune going in and still loved it.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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3
jaywhitaker1987Dec 22, 2021
If the only movie you've ever seen is a marvel superhero movie, Dune is probably pretty good by comparison. By any other metric, it's beyond boring and unimaginative. The special effects are impressive, if compared to the original Dune. OtherIf the only movie you've ever seen is a marvel superhero movie, Dune is probably pretty good by comparison. By any other metric, it's beyond boring and unimaginative. The special effects are impressive, if compared to the original Dune. Other than that, this is a boring and stupid movie of truly epic proportions. To take 3 hours just to deliver the most boring and predictable setup imaginable with nothing even verging on coherence . . . this movie truly sucks.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
DunkaccinoMar 23, 2022
During it's 155 minute runtime however, not everyone gets enough characterization. I'd like to see certain characters explored more. Maybe in the sequel. After all DUNE is still a beautiful sci-fi movie. It may not be everyone's cup of tea,During it's 155 minute runtime however, not everyone gets enough characterization. I'd like to see certain characters explored more. Maybe in the sequel. After all DUNE is still a beautiful sci-fi movie. It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's still a great piece of modern filmmaking.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
adamtaylor792Jul 17, 2022
One of the best science fiction movies in recent history with beautiful effects and an amazing degree of fidelity to the source material. The sound mix and score adds to this and uses sound in way that most movies do not.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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10
NoahPfisterOct 22, 2021
A technical masterpiece that captivates as well delivers on a pretty solid story. However, the score might change as this movie is only half of a completed story. If we get a second part, it might as well change the game.
7 of 18 users found this helpful711
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2
LightstormNov 6, 2021
The story is boring, without any touch of ideas for guiding the audience with interesting concepts for plots. Again we have the main character as a chosen-one hero, with pathetic speeches and senseless futuristic battles with knives andThe story is boring, without any touch of ideas for guiding the audience with interesting concepts for plots. Again we have the main character as a chosen-one hero, with pathetic speeches and senseless futuristic battles with knives and swords :) The whole story is not working with the futuristic world, there is not even a single original idea or even an attempt to make the futuristic world more realistic and believable through the perspective of human nature, like for example it was made in "Games of Throne". Great visuals.… Expand
7 of 18 users found this helpful711
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3
robomartionOct 27, 2021
It is a tale,
Told by an idiot,
full of sound and fury,
Signifying nothing.
12 of 31 users found this helpful1219
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9
o_retyOct 22, 2021
Villeneuve'a strong suit (esthetics, building up the atmoshpere, sensuality) has found enough room to shine at last. Woke accents are, mercifully, barely noticeable, and if present, they manage to defend themselves. Casting is top-notch as,Villeneuve'a strong suit (esthetics, building up the atmoshpere, sensuality) has found enough room to shine at last. Woke accents are, mercifully, barely noticeable, and if present, they manage to defend themselves. Casting is top-notch as, in such a heavily theatrical movie, has to. There are things to nit-pick but they shan't obscure the big picture and the big picture is glorious.… Expand
5 of 13 users found this helpful58
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10
JrainaldiOct 23, 2021
So good. Visual and auditory masterpiece. Need part 2. May go see it again just to make sure it does well in box office.
5 of 13 users found this helpful58
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3
DreadGOct 25, 2021
An ok movie, but nothing so fantastic as some say. It reminds of the new Blade Runner, where it was made to be so serious. Truth be told, the Hallmark version is much better, even if it is much cheaper. Hope the second one is better.
9 of 24 users found this helpful915
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10
SpiralusOct 22, 2021
It's so refreshing that this production have managed to cobble together all the good things film makers have learned since 1984. They were also able to avoid many of their peer's missteps. It stayed focused on the story from it's own uniqueIt's so refreshing that this production have managed to cobble together all the good things film makers have learned since 1984. They were also able to avoid many of their peer's missteps. It stayed focused on the story from it's own unique perspective. It improved pacing by juxtaposing action with intense emotion and suspense. It will likely be remembered as the best sci-fi epic of the decade, perhaps the best epic of the decade. I know Metacritic is ongoing proof that reviewers think their job is something other than judging the quality of movies, but this looks like it will go down as one of their more memorable misses. This version of Dune should be recommended to any human being with even a drop of curiosity about anything in them. It is a modern masterpiece and I hope we all really notice and reward it's creators accordingly. I will go pay for it on the big screen and encourage you to do the same.… Expand
6 of 16 users found this helpful610
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10
CPD98Oct 22, 2021
Excelente blockbuster de autor, con un apartado visual y sonoro apabullante. Es la mejor adaptación que podía hacerse de la primera mitad de la novela. Lo mejor que se puede ver este año en cines.
6 of 16 users found this helpful610
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8
kirkenderOct 22, 2021
Dune part one is good. It's about as good as a movie based on Dune can be. I have been reading the Dune books since I was a child and re-read them every once in a while; this film almost nails every aspect of the series. My favorite part ofDune part one is good. It's about as good as a movie based on Dune can be. I have been reading the Dune books since I was a child and re-read them every once in a while; this film almost nails every aspect of the series. My favorite part of the movie was hearing some guy in the theater say "I have no idea what's going on."… Expand
6 of 16 users found this helpful610
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8
AJ_13Oct 22, 2021
Please, go watch this at the cinema.

Dune: Part One is an instant classic, and game-changing in terms of cinematography and sound. Mature and slow-paced, yet never boring at all. Villeneuve manages to immerse the viewer in a deep, colossalPlease, go watch this at the cinema.

Dune: Part One is an instant classic, and game-changing in terms of cinematography and sound. Mature and slow-paced, yet never boring at all. Villeneuve manages to immerse the viewer in a deep, colossal universe, while avoiding feeling overwhelmed by it.The whole cast is at his best, but Zimmer and Villeneuve are the ones that take the cake. The only reason I don't rate it higher is the lack of bitterness and moral dilemma in the script that characterizes Villeneuve's filmography.… Expand
6 of 16 users found this helpful610
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5
FortifierOct 31, 2021
This is a film that requires a very particular taste to fully enjoy and leave the theatre satisfied. For myself, while the film's cinematography, acting, costumes, special effects, and soundtrack were absolutely spectacular, what the filmThis is a film that requires a very particular taste to fully enjoy and leave the theatre satisfied. For myself, while the film's cinematography, acting, costumes, special effects, and soundtrack were absolutely spectacular, what the film lacked most was the most important part of any story; proper story-telling.

Let's compare "Dune: Part 1" with a film that also uses similar story-telling methods; "Mad Max: Fury Road".

"Mad Max: Fury Road" is a film that is mostly told through its visuals. Aside from its introduction of dramatic news-reel montages to transition us from our present to a future where most of the world has been destroyed due to global wars over limited resources, the rest of the film simply follows Max and the other main characters. Everything we learn about how the new world works and how its cultures operate is mostly through being observant of the world around the characters as they move through the scenes. There is never enough dialogue to fully piece everything together if we only heard the dialogue.

But as they say, "A picture is worth 1000 words". By being observant one would be able to quickly figure out and enjoy the world "Mad Max: Fury Road" brings us into.

"Dune" does the exact same thing with how they tell their story. They rely mostly on the visuals to tell the story and give the world of "Dune" its life. However, "Mad Max: Fury Road" works, but "Dune" does not. Why is this?

For one, the transition from our world to Max's world is easy to understand and see as realistic. Wars over limiting resources destroy most of the world and those still alive are the ones hoarding the limited resources left? Okay! Done!

"Dune", on the other hand, launches us immediately over 8000 years into the future without any other context as to how we got there or what the new world is like...

From the very first minute of the film, a lot of the audience remains separated from the world of the film and already become drowned in questions.

"Mad Max: Fury Road", on the other hand, presents us with a handful of questions, but give us quick and simple answers to each of them before presenting us with new ones.

- People are crazy and obsessed with cars? Its the apocalypse and cars are the only way to not only have fun but ensure that you can get the resources to survive! Done!

- Crazy people faking deity are in charge? They successfully use cult tactics and their primary access to vital resources to get power and stay in power! Done!

- We got a population of tumour-filled cult followers? They're dying with nothing else to loose because the world has been destroyed through nuking! Done!

Yet once again, "Dune" immediately launches us into a world that presents us with so many questions yet little-to-no answers that are fulfilled through visual story-telling alone;

- After 8000 years humans have travelled throughout the galaxy to different planets and have set up galactic-wide governments based on Imperial styles of government with different family houses...? Okay...

- We have people that have abilities to control others through speech and even see into the future that is overseen by a matriarchal sect where only females are allowed to have said abilities and said females work in the background to manipulate politics and bloodlines to fulfill a prophecy...? Okay...

- The most valuable resource in this time is a spice solely located on a desert planet that is not only a hallucinogen that can even help said telekinetic people see into the future yet is somehow incorporated into unspecified technology that allows people to travel throughout space through worm-holes...? Okay...

In short, "Mad Max: Fury Road" provides a visual form of story-telling that easily transitions audiences into the film and provides easy and quick questions for easy answers...

While "Dune" provides way too many questions even before the movie properly starts without giving proper answers for half of them...

It is possible to understand the basics of what's going on in "Dune" just by reading between most of the lines and jumping to quick conclusions based just on what's been shown. Yet ultimately, the film seems like one of those movies based off a long-running TV show that Hollywood tries to cram into a few hours. Its chosen method of story-telling fails to properly establish the world and any emotional investment from the audience; turning what could have been a great sci-fi story into nothing more than a fever dream.… Expand
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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9
defdog99Oct 22, 2021
Holy Crap. Was that amazing! All you lazy ppl who think your sound bar and 65 inch 1080p are good enough, you are going to miss out! My theater wasn't IMAX but it looked like an 8k picture to me. Crazy amazing graphics. Dolby ATMOS soundHoly Crap. Was that amazing! All you lazy ppl who think your sound bar and 65 inch 1080p are good enough, you are going to miss out! My theater wasn't IMAX but it looked like an 8k picture to me. Crazy amazing graphics. Dolby ATMOS sound was stellar. This movie is easily a 9. First 20 mins on the slow side.. then BAM 2 hours of action! Glad they didn't try cramming both parts into a 3 hour monster. Great cast! NOTE: I never read the book or seen any Dune before.… Expand
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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0
GenneryOct 25, 2021
The movie looks great and the music is good too but that’s pretty much it. Story is lacking, convoluted and dragged out, not a lot happening here…
10 of 27 users found this helpful1017
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0
AaronJupiterNov 4, 2021
It is an alarm signal when I as a viewer get the feeling that the film music and epic pictures are being used for the sole reason to give the whole film more tension and magnificence in order to hide the fact that the film is simply told in aIt is an alarm signal when I as a viewer get the feeling that the film music and epic pictures are being used for the sole reason to give the whole film more tension and magnificence in order to hide the fact that the film is simply told in a boring way.

Instead of relying on a suspenseful story, Villeneuve underlays beautiful (landscape) shots with such a powerful, loud and dramatic music score that it tore me out of the story every time and I began to think about why these scenes, which were rather insignificant for the process of the story, had such a dramaturgy. It almost seems as if Villeneuve is afraid that his movie would be too boring without. Blade Runner 2049 had the same problem! Villeneuve seems to use epic images and a dramatic and loud soundtrack to distract from the fact that he just doesn't have what it takes to tell exciting and good stories.… Expand
7 of 19 users found this helpful712
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3
ShirongOct 22, 2021
Amazing in every aspect, but fails in the exposition, dialogue and internal consistency, which are extremely poor and ruin the movie.

tell me about your dreams there is this girl do your dreams come true? nah not really k bye hi, I haveAmazing in every aspect, but fails in the exposition, dialogue and internal consistency, which are extremely poor and ruin the movie.

tell me about your dreams
there is this girl
do your dreams come true?
nah not really
k bye

hi, I have come from far away
welcome oh no wait stay where you are
*spits*
lolwhatokwetoo
you are all dirty foreigners, stay at home
yes we are
bye gotta go

The scenes with Yueh are offensive to me as a Chinese, the way he practices his 'medical skills' is an imitation of Chinese scam healers and I was expecting he would recommend Paul to drink hot water afterwards. His Chinese dialogue is silly and did not say anything nice, the whole theatre was laughing uncomfortably at this. He had no good reason to do what he did, a Chinese would place his duty to his lord over a personal interest that was already obvious to not end well. You cannot expect Chinese to like a Chinese character if he just has a Chinese face and acts against the Chinese spirit.

With regards to consistency, shields and full plate armor do nothing to stop machetes, bombs, darts and anything else, but they do somehow protect people from poisoned air. If they have lasers that can carve through stone and tear up half the city trying to shoot down one shielded plane, and bombs that blow everything up shield or no shield, why all the dumb melee fighting? And if your troops can fight in closed formation and you have a defensible fortress, why rush out into the open like madmen?

Jessica is supposed to be some elite fighter with special mindcontrol powers, or what is she? Because she is portrayed as an emotionally unstable person that cannot control herself, which looks very inconsistent to me.

Fremen look like savages with no discipline or obedience. No details about their culture or beliefs, and the fight scene was without reason and did not look good. Why wear these watersuits during a fight, if the suit gets stabbed it leaks the water, which we saw in another scene. They would die in the desert with just a scratch, right?

Jessica gets a knife early on, but Fremen seem to have a belief they must cut themselves with the knife before putting it away, which was not done when Jessica has it given to her.

What is up with always bad writers and every one else from cgi/wardrobe/actors/camera do an amazing job?… Expand
11 of 30 users found this helpful1119
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3
rainmantexOct 22, 2021
The anticipation I had to see this movie, well sometimes it's better to want something than to actually get it. Just glad I didn't pay at the theater to see this. The original DUNE was and still is the best yet.
12 of 33 users found this helpful1221
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2
electronicoffeeOct 26, 2021
As a huge fan of the books, the Lynch film, and the SYFY mini series (both of them), this is movie was **** trash. It removes everything that's unique and interesting about the world, it's surface quality only. Many will say this is aAs a huge fan of the books, the Lynch film, and the SYFY mini series (both of them), this is movie was **** trash. It removes everything that's unique and interesting about the world, it's surface quality only. Many will say this is a beautiful movie, but I found it all pale, beige, grey, washed out colors. Half the movie is wide angle shots of empty places (limnal spaces) and the other half is **** Visions" of a terrible actress (did you SEE the spiderman films?) The entire cast is miscast, especially the mother, the father is made to look weak, the mother cries way too much for a stoic 'Archbishop' of her church, she helps him during the box trial (dumb AF, ruins the whole tension, and he doesn't even say the 'mind killer' poem, SHE DOES! WTF!?) I mean all of the men are neutered in this film except for Aquaman and the blue/red visuals of the shielding is annoying as **** and makes everything under the blue/red blurry so all fidelity is lost and fight scenes look like blurs fighting blurs (and not in the good way, like Heroes Season 4, Ep 1 Knife Fight with Peter vs the Circus Assassin). I could go on and on, from the gender/race bending, to the absolute DRONING horns of the 'soundtrack' (whoever decided horns on horns on horns would be good, should be fired). It's so full of empty areas, empty moments, and insignifigant stuff that's not in the books or OG renditions, it feels like this is what a zoomer who read the cliff notes of Dune 10 years ago in college would make as a "Dune" movie. Paul is emo as **** while he looks good as a 'young lord' type, he lacks the acting ability, the emotional range, and his 'outbust' on his mom at that scene is so petulent and whiny. It's like he's basically Kylo Ren cosplaying as Paul Atredies. It's **** pathetic. **** Visions" is what I'm gonna call this movie from now on.… Expand
8 of 22 users found this helpful814
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10
the_pipistrelloOct 22, 2021
A Visual masterpiece!one of 2021's finest films! it is a perfect adaptation! hatts off to Denis Villieneuve to be able to pull such a great piece of art!
8 of 22 users found this helpful814
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3
Gav_Rosie6Oct 27, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I'd recommend watching paint dry for 2 and a half hours. You'll get a similar if not more invigorating experience.
Boring throughout, dull visuals, average choreography and did Hans Zimmer just not make any effort at all? Not his usual unforgettable scores, more like a Man of steel OST remix. (I cannot believe he passed on making the soundtrack for Tenet over this film)

I really wanted to enjoy this film from it's hype and excellent cast. Every character has the most pointless if not nonexistent arc with dialogue you could fall asleep to. You're even teased with visions of Zendaya throughout and she's only in it for 5 minutes at the end. Even Tom Holland would be fiddling with his Web shooters watching this film. Wasted opportunity for a massive sci-fi blockbuster. A third of the film is just wideshots of desert. Not that they aren't great shots, but everyone knows what deserts look like. Not exactly a farcry from our own imagination. Anakin Skywalker would be cringing in his seat. It's the type of film that feels like it's a single episode of a TV series; where the setting and characters are already established. I appreciate there is a book and an older film. But most viewers will be introduced into this world from afresh and it's very disappointing.

When you eventually get to the credits you're sat wondering weather it was all worth it... Well there's a part 2 coming which I won't rush to watch, so probably not. Loved the cool wasp like helicopters though. 3/10… Expand
8 of 22 users found this helpful814
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10
VenegradOct 23, 2021
Отличный визуальный стиль, в целом фильм очень понравился, каждый кадр Дюны как ожившая картина.
4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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10
johankupsztalOct 22, 2021
Super, one of the best from Dennis. Looking forward for chapter 2. Unbelievable.
4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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10
LeahhvOct 22, 2021
Great movie and perfect cast! Can’t wait for part 2! I hope all the books are made into movies!
4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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10
AnicetusOct 22, 2021
This is a great reboot for the franchise and can’t wait to see the next movie!
4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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10
Jasmith58Oct 23, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Fabulous, gorgeous and worth the wait. Can’t wait for Dune 2 and hopefully the rest.… Expand
4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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2
skelekeyOct 22, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bland and boring. There are no likable Characters and thus no one I could care whether they lived or died. It's full of pomp and ceremony, showy visuals and a bombastic score, but this doesn't do much if the movie ultimately goes nowhere. It feels like a 2 and a half hour prologue. This supposedly epic movie ends via a ho hum jobber fight. I really don't see what people see in this Oh and the gigantic sand worms don't make sense for a desert setting.… Expand
9 of 25 users found this helpful916
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0
Henry_DOct 25, 2021
First of all, people travel interstellar, yet fighting on land with swords, i havent seen dummer thing in years. The movie has no style, no characters, no music. Slow boring story, with laughable mediocre 2 min action across the whole thing.First of all, people travel interstellar, yet fighting on land with swords, i havent seen dummer thing in years. The movie has no style, no characters, no music. Slow boring story, with laughable mediocre 2 min action across the whole thing. I waited until something starts to going on, but it never did.… Expand
9 of 25 users found this helpful916
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0
SuperLambdaOct 29, 2021
What is this? The only high light of this movie is the big sand worm. Oh, good worm haha.

Story: Boring, Confusing, Mystifying, Inconsistent, Conflicting. Most importantly, Pretentious. Music: It's not my discrimination against Middle EastWhat is this? The only high light of this movie is the big sand worm. Oh, good worm haha.

Story: Boring, Confusing, Mystifying, Inconsistent, Conflicting. Most importantly, Pretentious.

Music: It's not my discrimination against Middle East music, but this music is just horrible.

Visual Effect: Nice visual effect, I gotta admit. But it would be so much better if you let that worm show up a little bit more hahaha. Basically the only thing matters is this worm.

Sci-fi Rationality: Sorry but this is not sci-fi, this is just a fiction movie. I mean who fight with cold weapons while they can travel between galaxy? KEKW… Expand
9 of 25 users found this helpful916
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3
LakelandbuzzOct 26, 2021
The visuals and worldbuilding are good, shame about the people actually living in it being as 2d and interesting as cardboard. I wish they would dump these boring losers and there sandy bums and explore more of the galaxy and it's politics,The visuals and worldbuilding are good, shame about the people actually living in it being as 2d and interesting as cardboard. I wish they would dump these boring losers and there sandy bums and explore more of the galaxy and it's politics, as the directors apparently told them to emulate trees and be as wooden as possible. Which is pretty annoying, because I know these people can act, but are intentiontaly holding back from emoting, I'm assuming, because the director told them to. The moments they're allowed to show actual emotion and character is rare, as they instead stare intensely at each other, talking in "Very serious whispers" as a soundtrack that sounds like a tribal singer stubbing her toe plays in the background. If good worldbuilding and visuals are enough for you, I say go for it. This is clearly a movie for a audience who is nothing like me, who needs characters and emotion to stay invested. Otherwise, stay away and search for cheaper ways to fall asleep.… Expand
9 of 25 users found this helpful916
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2
DumplebugOct 23, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Why can you shoot cannons at the enemy but only personally fight with swords? Long drawn out dramatic scenes, zero character development, unrecognizable whispered dialog, just friggin boring... with some visual effects that were so monochromatic they appeared drab. Ultimately, to be left halfway into the story and see you in 5 years for part 2....If they make it. Yeah, being a sci-fi lover I'll probably see part 2, but I'm sure I'll probably dislike it just as much. How Jason Mamoa sat through 5 showings of this film and didn't kill himself is mind boggling.… Expand
10 of 28 users found this helpful1018
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9
mrc_brnOct 22, 2021
Oh my word what a pretty movie this is. So aesthetically pleasing. Loved the images and the pacing. Loved the cast without exception. Can't really judge how difficult the story is to follow along for those unfamiliar with the narrative, but IOh my word what a pretty movie this is. So aesthetically pleasing. Loved the images and the pacing. Loved the cast without exception. Can't really judge how difficult the story is to follow along for those unfamiliar with the narrative, but I found it a mesmerizing experience. The 2 and a half hours flew by. A must see for any sci-fi enthusiast. This is how it's done.… Expand
5 of 14 users found this helpful59
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9
veracousOct 23, 2021
The movie is visually astounding. The atmosphere that it lathers around the viewer is thick ad immersive, such as needed for an adaption of the novel. This movie really does the source material justice. It is the closest thing we have everThe movie is visually astounding. The atmosphere that it lathers around the viewer is thick ad immersive, such as needed for an adaption of the novel. This movie really does the source material justice. It is the closest thing we have ever seen to a perfect adaption of the supposedly "unadaptable" masterpiece of a novel.… Expand
5 of 14 users found this helpful59
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8
MetacriticOnurOct 22, 2021
excellent
[ ek-suh-luhnt ]

adjective
possessing outstanding quality or superior merit; remarkably good.
6 of 17 users found this helpful611
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1
KaladrynOct 25, 2021
I can't believe how bad this new version is. The main character is so bad. The dialogue is so awkward and poorly delivered. And SOMEHOW the special effects aren't really any better than the original movie. I don't know what people are smokingI can't believe how bad this new version is. The main character is so bad. The dialogue is so awkward and poorly delivered. And SOMEHOW the special effects aren't really any better than the original movie. I don't know what people are smoking to give these positive reviews, it was TERRIBLE. They COMPLETELY lost the epic feel of the original movie.… Expand
7 of 20 users found this helpful713
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10
MadMax09392Oct 22, 2021
One of the best science fiction movies to come out in the last decade.

-Amazing visuals and sound. -Great acting across the board. -Story is well layed out and explained even for newcomers. Not for everyone though as it has DenisOne of the best science fiction movies to come out in the last decade.

-Amazing visuals and sound.
-Great acting across the board.
-Story is well layed out and explained even for newcomers.

Not for everyone though as it has Denis Villeneuve's signature slow burn and subdued acting. If you are into more than just action packed films with one liners you will enjoy this though.

Only point of criticism I can find is that it ends too fast and needs a part 2 ASAP.… Expand
7 of 20 users found this helpful713
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3
sittingbullfrogNov 1, 2021
The Good: action scenes are very well dune with the exception of the ridiculous shields which make combat feel like something out of a children's videogame instead of something visceral and deadly The Bad: the style is very bland to say theThe Good: action scenes are very well dune with the exception of the ridiculous shields which make combat feel like something out of a children's videogame instead of something visceral and deadly The Bad: the style is very bland to say the least. shooting this film in black and white would not significantly change the way it looks. costume design is all over the place; a mishmash of WoW, Daft Punk cosplay, and Victorian. many pointless liberties were taken with the source material. one such example is the stained lips of the mentats which has been reduced to a tiny strip of black on the lower lip. The Ugly: Like the Hobbit films this series is being stretched out as much as possible which is hilarious given the many books in the Dune franchise. Dune is a slow burn, the scriptwriters unfathomably slowed the pace. Changes made for pacing are easily justifiable when transforming a book into film but the changes in this film make zero sense. The writers deleted material from the book and extended scenes that could easily have been shortened. In light of the fact that two films are being made to tell one book it's hardly necessary for the scriptwriters to completely eliminate any material from the book. So many poor decisions were made by the producers of this movie. In retrospect this really isn't surprising considering the fact that the director and scripters belittled the source material in seemingly every interview they gave.… Expand
7 of 20 users found this helpful713
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9
Mrax13Oct 22, 2021
Excellent adaptation of the book, really enjoyable! I already want to see it another time.
7 of 20 users found this helpful713
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0
MAGA_ManOct 26, 2021
Villeneuve's pointless Blade Runner movie was a huge financial disaster for Warner, now with this one losing a ton of money it's looking like this hugely overrated director will soon be relegated to direct-to-Netflix trash like the Wachowski brothers
8 of 23 users found this helpful815
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0
JennyKat570Oct 26, 2021
My bf insisted we watch this last weekend and it was the most boring movie I think I've ever seen. If you haven't read the book you'll have no idea what's going on or what all the weird terminology means. Made no sense that they have fancyMy bf insisted we watch this last weekend and it was the most boring movie I think I've ever seen. If you haven't read the book you'll have no idea what's going on or what all the weird terminology means. Made no sense that they have fancy helicopters but also everyone fights with swords for some reason? Anyway hard pass if you're note a total nerd.… Expand
8 of 23 users found this helpful815
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0
BarronOfDuneOct 26, 2021
This isn't even in the same league as David Lynch's far superior (though still flawed) adaptation. It is bland and unimaginative, with washed out colors and monochromatic palettes indicative of the lack of any "spice" of inspiration in itsThis isn't even in the same league as David Lynch's far superior (though still flawed) adaptation. It is bland and unimaginative, with washed out colors and monochromatic palettes indicative of the lack of any "spice" of inspiration in its creation. Most of the cast (Gurney, Piter, Yueh, and especially Kynes who is just awful) seem to just be going through the motions instead of really selling their characters. Not even worth watching on streaming let alone paying $50 to see in theaters.… Expand
10 of 29 users found this helpful1019
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0
LaSh4wn328Oct 26, 2021
Not nearly as good as the older version (i recommend the "Spicediver" edit), just another lazy cash grab by the studio. Sounds like it crashed pretty hard at the box office though sot he joke's on them
9 of 27 users found this helpful918
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2
AlienwolfmgiOct 23, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dune reminds me of a pretty present at Christmas time but inside is a mediocre gift. Here the scene is set during the 2 hour and 35 minute movie - a chosen one, a villain race, and planet of people thinking the chosen one is unworthy . This movie trope is so overplayed in Hollywood that the movie seems lackluster at face value of plot . The main villain is just that - a villain that shows nothing more Than being a static villain . The tech is impressive but over all all the action sequences end up being hand to hand swordplay “why no future weapons “ don’t know … this is a sword slashing movie set in the future without light sabers … but we kinda do have Jedi - but only choose to use their power when the film seems it necessary . Now I’m told this is going by the original book so my criticisms in the plot is that it’s pretty bland book idea - but I haven’t read it so something about all this addressing crucial stupid plot info could be fixed there. The film is bland and a boring spectacle . When there’s a point of intensity it gets washed away with instant help from friends and than off to the other part of the movie real quick because these characters choose to sacrifice their lives for these people and … well don’t think about it too much because they don’t explain enough even with the long run time you lose so much character development to try to establish a world that isn’t that hard to understand. I can fit all information about this world in one page … that won’t take 45 minutes of explaining to get through. They try to make this seem to the mild movie watcher that this is some kind of profound movie going experience which is far beyond mediocre that it becomes super mundane and predictable. Gotta love the pointless ending that puts our hero in the mix of fighting one vs one against some random person … woah excitement speed forth with all the drama of a boring over played hack sword movements we’ve seen done 900 other times in this film. At least creative film makers can take something that has been supremely over done in their own film and make it interesting in some kind of scale . Here it’s a snooze fest. The ending of this film seems dumb because here’s a character whom builds up his super power that he has from his mother who is also there but he ends up trading swords at the end when he could have just used his command power to fix all his problems … maybe the book explained why he couldn’t do this and mommy couldn’t either but here it just seems forgotten about . That is a good way of explaining this movie . Forget about things until it’s gonna be needed and than forget about it again so we can have more pointless drama that falls flat from ever being exciting or interesting.… Expand
9 of 27 users found this helpful918
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0
Iserlohn14Oct 26, 2021
Timofee Shalamay was a terrible choice for Paul, he looks anorexic and his eyes are sunk way too deep into his skull. Watching him try to look tough or noble is a laugh riot, dude looks like he could barely grow a beard in a month.

OtherTimofee Shalamay was a terrible choice for Paul, he looks anorexic and his eyes are sunk way too deep into his skull. Watching him try to look tough or noble is a laugh riot, dude looks like he could barely grow a beard in a month.

Other than that the movie is slow and boring with tons of dumb nerd **** Needs more action and originality!… Expand
8 of 24 users found this helpful816
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1
JsillyOct 29, 2021
I watched this for free on hbo and am so glad it was free so I didn't waste money. I am usually one who finds enjoyment in most big budget films. The worst rating I usually give on those is a 6 out of 10 or 3 out of 5. There is almost alwaysI watched this for free on hbo and am so glad it was free so I didn't waste money. I am usually one who finds enjoyment in most big budget films. The worst rating I usually give on those is a 6 out of 10 or 3 out of 5. There is almost always something to enjoy about them. However, I am so confused by the number of great reviews on various sites that I had to write this review so others may see it and save their time and/or money. This is far from an action movie and what action there is mostly takes place in the dark. It is extremely hard to follow the action due to that and the silly shield effects. By the way, the shields do nothing to actually protect them which is why they are silly. I have no complaints regarding the acting but that's about it. I spent the entire movie waiting for something more until I realized there wasn't enough time for it to pick up. Slow and boring is how I will describe it to friends who will ask. Not an action movie, not much of any kind of movie.… Expand
8 of 24 users found this helpful816
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3
ElthorOct 22, 2021
Not really a bad movie, but it's only a third of the story without a green light for parts 2 and 3 and the studio has had plenty of time to do that.
Only watch this if you don't mind being left hanging.
The story is 1/3, so is my score.
7 of 21 users found this helpful714
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0
GuapoGrandeOct 26, 2021
LOOOOOL DPO only get $40 million in its opening weekend, that's 20% less than the 12th Halloween movie did in its opening!!!! What a financial catastrophe for Warner, now they have to decide whether to torch another $100 million plus makingLOOOOOL DPO only get $40 million in its opening weekend, that's 20% less than the 12th Halloween movie did in its opening!!!! What a financial catastrophe for Warner, now they have to decide whether to torch another $100 million plus making the sequel, or suffer the humiliation of cutting their losses and leaving this terrible half-movie flapping in the breeze!… Expand
6 of 18 users found this helpful612
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1
JorgeJohannasoOct 30, 2021
Dune is attempting the greatest build up to a sequel film ever... and it's a worthy shot. It's a grander build than a binge TV show could execute in many ways. Dune was enjoyable. I was hooked and there was no hateful activism written intoDune is attempting the greatest build up to a sequel film ever... and it's a worthy shot. It's a grander build than a binge TV show could execute in many ways. Dune was enjoyable. I was hooked and there was no hateful activism written into the script and these days that's about all you can ask for. Denis Villeneuve's sandy showdown was slow and ethreal add to that a doomy aura. It reminds me of the anime Ergo Proxy mixed with Star Wars but if you know the history..this inspired Star Wars.

Dune teeters a galactical tipping point, unsure of being a masterpiece, it's easy to love or hate this film and most viewers are bouncing between the the star clusters of love and hate. Dune sits a top a space pyramid. For the viewer it's a challenge to decide if this was a success more than any movie released in a great while, just watch You2ube. Most reviewers gave it an 8 BUT with a blistering hesitation. Angry Joe, at first gave Dune a 7/10 after processing for a long time but unfortunately changed his mind to an 8/10. Psychology shows us he should have gone with a 7! That was Joe's SKILLED answer!! He caved from fear and peer pressure of sorts (Joe sit's along side two other reviewers). That's my opinion. Sorry, Joe, love ya!

When keeping a sequel in mind, after watching this, it's a safe bet to lean towards the positive but for me I just can't do that. A sequel almost didn't happen and these days it could be cancelled. I was annoyed constantly while watching but went home from the theater at least feeling satisfied with the theatrical experience for once in recent years. Dune consisted of endless borderline flaws but the cinemetography does really help mend the wounds over and over again. I half cringed through the entire space opera. I was unsure, bloody until the end. The final scene was by far the worst part of the film and that's why I just can't give it a high score (please re-watch this horrible final scene). The fighting scenes were not great. I was not impressed. There are ways to make this count especially for a climax. I hate to say it because I love the idea of Dune, but lightsabers are more enjoyable and so are skilled martial artists. The protagonist, Paul Atreides, was training his whole life to fight! I was hoping for something exciting! What happened? His victory reminded me of Akido or something. Quick and a energyless for the big screen. That's Akido, save your energy, save it against them but that makes for nothing spectacular unless it's done without a build...but this was building and building..than blah, bland, dang...I was annoyed. Why not more intensity? More blood? More breath? More struggle? It's the least that we should expect against such a slightly well executed, yet visually pretentious, masterpiece.

Dissecting the beast (10 categories/1 point each);

(-1*) The acting...almost convincing. It's not much better than Star Wars , which many compare this to. If you think about it this does seem like a more disturbing Star Wars film. For fresh actors over the course of the pandemic they did phenomenal work but still flaws. (-1*) The cinematography...almost perfect. Too dim at times (to be fair probably looks great on LED). I was confused by which is what, by who is who, during battles.

(-1*) The script ... almost great but I WAS lost about what soldiers were which and I was constantly waiting for them to explain the interesting Dune universe etc. (-2*) Respect to source material... from what I've seen on You2ube and heard over the years this does not spend a single moment explaining anything that actually makes Dune, Dune yet it's there...

(-1*) Yes, there is a scene that never happens. You will wait and wait and wait for it and it never happens. Since this is spoiler free I won't mention. Disappointed in the end. Many other reviewers agree.

(-2*) The music/mixing was titalating in my ears but overwhelming, it has the Hanson effect, combined with Phillip Glass. Were more than two melodies used over three hours? Everything is mixed poorly. I'm a musician and I like Hanz Zimmer BUT I wanted to run from the theater because I was so annoyed with the music. Not making this up. The music stole the show a little too much.… Expand
6 of 18 users found this helpful612
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5
TheGrackleOct 23, 2021
It's barely half the movie the original was. The only thing it did better than the original was the special effects.
5 of 15 users found this helpful510
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10
manningn15Oct 22, 2021
Dune (Part One) was a stellar visual masterpiece. The visual effects were remarkable, some of the best I've ever seen. The music was exceptional, one of the best scores I've ever heard. The cinematography was gorgeous. The performances wereDune (Part One) was a stellar visual masterpiece. The visual effects were remarkable, some of the best I've ever seen. The music was exceptional, one of the best scores I've ever heard. The cinematography was gorgeous. The performances were stupendous especially from Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Stellan Skarsgård, Oscar Issac, Jason Momoa, Charlotte Rampling, Zendaya, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, Javier Bardem, and Josh Brolin. The costumes were outstanding. The makeup was superb especially on Stellan Skarsgård. The writing especially the screenplay was excellent. The sets were spectacular. This was an A+ movie and really hope they do a sequel.… Expand
5 of 15 users found this helpful510
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0
MookPiipNov 8, 2021
Is a typical modern remake.. characters are not what the books intended. It’s the new age
5 of 15 users found this helpful510
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