Sarah Wandor
Movie Critic Columnist
When I first saw the trailer for the 2021 movie “Dune,” it looked interesting, but I didn’t think much of it. However, when I watched it, I was blown away. It was unlike almost any film I had seen. The amount of detail and thought put into it was so astounding and so well executed that it left me speechless.
The mysteries and the intrigue woven throughout were so thorough that they held my attention, and I was waiting to see what would happen. From start to finish, it was one question after the other, and the film gave just enough answers to satisfy but also enough mystery to keep you wanting to see more.
The various powers and houses at play — their motivations and ambitions — the film executes with such perfection; it keeps the audiences’ eyes glued to the screen, wondering and anticipating what is going to happen next.
The costumes are beautiful but also add tremendous layers to the movie and speak so much about the story and the characters wearing them. The women of the Bene Gesserit all wear black veils of the same type, save for a few scenes in the movie. It adds to the mystery of them and how they work as a group.
The costumes also add to their characters and give them a much greater presence than if they were not wearing them. Lady Jessica’s clothing is of a similar nature but speaks more of her beauty and grace. In a world of duller colors, brighter hues stand out even more.
Each of Lady Jessica’s dresses possess colors that make her stand out, highlighting her character yet blending in just enough to hide her. They draw attention to her, attention that would normally be given elsewhere. Instead, she stands out as someone different but still remains someone working in the shadows.
The performances from the actors are also astounding, specifically Timothee Chalamet as Paul Atreides and Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica. They have such an intensity to them, especially from Ferguson, that is rarely found anywhere else. They don’t have to say anything, yet they carry a presence that can be felt on screen.
The viewer can see the emotion Chalamet’s eyes when he is on screen. It’s subtle but powerful, and it speaks volumes, especially when he has the transition from fear and pain to determination mixed with pain. He portrays his character to near perfection, and it shows so clearly in the film.
Ferguson has many moments where her performance is highlighted, mostly when she is trying to keep herself together. She is on the verge of breaking down yet still holding it in. It is such a convincing performance, and she involves her entire physicality into it, which makes it a breath-holding moment.
The soundtrack for “Dune” is also breathtaking. It builds with scenes and stops abruptly, making the audience’s heart stop. It adds energy by raising the intensity of the sound or lowering it to enhance what someone is saying.
The soundtrack is an often-ignored element of a film, but it is immensely important, and the creators of this film understood that. It added to the intensity of the film and the events happening on screen.
“Dune” is one of the best recent films I have seen over the past few years. It hit every note and captures the attention as soon it starts to play on screen. The intrigue and the mystery within the story leave you wanting more.
I would have gladly watched a longer version of this film from start to finish. “Dune” is highly recommended for anyone who hasn’t seen it, and, for those who have, rewatch it. It is truly amazing.