"Lead them to paradise."- Paul Atreides

Denis Villeneuve's 2024 sequel "Dune: Part Two" catalogues Paul Atreides, who unites with Chani and the Fremen while seeking revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family.

What a great one! I'm so glad I know nothing about the Dune books so I can experience this story through film and through the mythical cinematography that is present in this film. Shots burst and pop with bright colors and a stylized flair, practically every scene looks sensational. The cinematography alone sells the film, especially in IMAX which I had the pleasure to view this film in. The score of the film and the one before go so extremely hard for no reason. Zimmer adds another list of bangers to his repertoire! The score is an integral part of this film's story, it extenuates the highs and lows and adds whimsy or weight to scenes when necessary. The story is really good, It is captivating and kind of mysterious, leaving me with many questions about the future of the franchise. I also think these two films deserve to be among the greats when it comes to worldbuilding because I have fallen hook, line, and sinker for this world. The world draws you in and engrosses you in the different planets. It also introduces you to a religion that has many similarities to Christian and Islamic beliefs. I found this very intriguing, religious influence is always great in stories when done respectfully and I feel like for the most part the film does a great job. It offers a critique to religion while simultaneously validating it. It’s impressive how you can see two diametrically opposed view points executed exceptionally. But the religion in the film is super interesting yet a little convoluted. But to me, that  just adds levels of depth to the “lore.” Like I said earlier, I know nothing about the books but I couldn't be more excited to see where the franchise goes! Character wise its also really great with Javier Bardem, Austin Butler, and Rebecca Ferguson being some standout performances. I also think Zendaya was awesome in this film, "Dune: Part One" never really gave her a chance to shine but this film makes her very endearing and interesting. The biggest shocker of the film for me was Timothée Chalamet. I thought he was good in the first film but I honestly felt like he was lacking some depth, however this film adds a level of complexity to his character. Chalamet also ramps up his performance, commanding the stage in some scenes and quietly pondering in others. If I had to criticize the story or characters It would mostly fall on the fact that the villain's are rather flat, I think we could benefit from a deeper villain. Nitpicking I could also criticize the pacing of the film, there are some needless scenes but like I said, nitpicking. I will say however I think (this is my interpretation) the ending sets up a villain for the rest of the franchise that will make for a very complex and emotional struggle. Final tidbit about the story is that I got very different vibes in the first film about what kind of story this is. So I left the theater feeling like I had been betrayed but I loved it. (This will make sense when you watch the film which you totally should do!)

All in all "Dune: Part Two" is a stellar film that is a technical and world building marvel, that also boasts very clever and intricate character arcs. A lot of the internet is treating this film like the second coming of Christ, and while I don't think this movie is that good, I cant deny that it is still a really good film. From the score, the story, the characters, all of it! The narrative poses philosophical and moral questions through Paul Atreides’s arc and it is executed gloriously ! You can consider me a fan and I am in it for the long hall! I highly recommend giving this film a watch especially in an IMAX theater, simply because I'm confident in saying this is one of the most immersive films out there! I'm glad we are getting more epic and emotional tales in cinemas that are politically neutral. "Dune: Part Two" doesn't align itself with any side of the political aisle, its just a darn good film. A film that is exactly what the world needs right now!

Thanks for reading and God bless!