“Dune” demands to be seen in IMAX

PHOTO: Catch “Dune” at both Regal theatres in downtown Davis.

By Jihan Moon,

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

Director Denis Villeneuve (“Arrival”, “Blade Runner 2049”) makes his most sprawling and epic movie to date with “Dune”. An acid trip of a sensory experience, it should be seen on the biggest screen possible with the sharpest sound system possible.

Adapted from Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel of the same name, “Dune” tells the story of House Atreides as they settle on the desert planet Arrakis and the interplanetary conflict that arises thereafter.

Watching this movie in IMAX made for a theatrical experience like nothing else.

Hans Zimmer’s score is deafening and overbearing, making the film feel even more epic and expansive. The sound design, mixed with the score, engulf and entrance the audience. Cinematographer Greig Fraser transforms the unremitting sand dunes and massively minimalistic designs into enchanting visuals.

Villeneuve introduces the world of “Dune” in an efficient manner, allowing any viewer to follow the intricate story and interstellar socio-political nuances.

The star-studded cast, led by an always fantastic Timothée Chalamet, is charismatic and organic. While few of them make a lasting impression, they all seamlessly and effortlessly fit into the world of Arrakis, adding to the extensive world-building throughout the film.

However, the film is far from perfect.

The story is slow to start; the first half hour feels disjointed and overpacked.

Also, this is only an adaptation of the first half of Herbert’s novel, leaving room for a sequel. Plot-wise, screenwriters Eric Roth, Jon Spaihts, and Villeneuve, find a natural ending point and craft a full character arc for Chalamet’s Paul Atreides. However, the film’s central themes of colonialism and heritage are introduced, but are given no further exploration.

Dune is currently playing in theatres and streaming on HBO Max.