#VicksFlicks Special Edition: Dune

4 out of 5 stars

Sicario. Prisoners. Arrival. Blade Runner 2049. I’ve known for awhile that Denis Villeneuve is an unsurpassed, visionary director. However, his film adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi novel should make that clear as day for those out there who still dare to question it. From the first of its 155 minutes, we’re fully immersed in a visually breathtaking world built by Villeneuve, followed by a supernal and thunderous score by Hans Zimmer. The all-out scope and size are epic. It’s a baronial, bold, and beautiful cinematic achievement that moviegoers haven’t experienced in a long time.

Every character is used effectively to forward Paul’s journey in fulfilling his destiny. The impressive cast are all on their A game with Timothée Chalamet and Rebecca Ferguson being the standouts as they’re the story’s emotional heartbeat. But Jason Momoa is right up there in his portrayal as Duncan Idaho. The intensity and charisma he carries is unequaled. Stellan Skarsgård plays Baron Vladimir Harkonnen and his look alone is terrifying as hell, but when he speaks – it’s spine-chilling.

While perhaps premature to call this sci-fi spectacle a masterpiece, it’s undeniably miraculous and meticulous. Be that as it may, the story is still a little thin and it wouldn’t hurt to explore more into certain relationships that appear fairly meaningful. It doesn’t bother me too much though since we must remember this is only the beginning. There’s obviously more to tell of this saga about messiahs, visions, philosophical testaments, political strives, and war. It’s probably unfathomable right now, but the stage has been set for Part Two to be even bigger and more mind-blowing. If so, Villeneuve will be the The One in our eyes.

Brandon Vick is a member of The Music City Film Critics’ Association, the resident film critic of the SoBros Network, and the star of The Vick’s Flicks Podcast. Follow him on Twitter @SirBrandonV and be sure to search #VicksFlicks for all of his latest movie reviews.