🏆 Dune: Part Two (2024) - Epic, Beautiful, and Just Too Long

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)

Released 03-21-2024

Watched 02-26-2025

Reviewed 02-26-2025

Watched in the theater Using Cinemark Movie Club (Oscar MovieWeek Festival Pass)

"The visions are clear now. I see possible futures, all at once. Our enemies are all around us, and in so many futures they prevail. But I do see a way, there is a narrow way through."

Dune: Part Two is the follow-up to Denis Villeneuve’s 2021 adaptation of Frank Herbert’s sci-fi epic. This sequel picks up where the first film left off, continuing Paul Atreides’ (Timothée Chalamet) journey among the Fremen as he embraces his destiny and faces off against House Harkonnen. With a runtime of 166 minutes, it is an ambitious, visually stunning film that remains loyal to its source material. However, for those not deeply invested in the Dune lore, the film struggles to be engaging.

The standout element of Dune: Part Two is its craftsmanship. The visuals are breathtaking, from the vast desert landscapes of Arrakis to the intricate details of the Fremen’s world. The sound design and score by Hans Zimmer elevate the experience, making each moment feel grand and immersive. The action sequences are impressive, and Villeneuve’s ability to create an atmosphere of tension and awe is undeniable.

The cast delivers strong performances across the board. Zendaya, who had a limited presence in the first film, takes on a much bigger role here and shines as Chani. Her chemistry with Chalamet feels natural, and she brings much-needed emotional depth. Austin Butler, as the menacing Feyd-Rautha, adds an extra layer of intensity to the film. Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Dave Bautista, and Christopher Walken also turn in solid performances, as do others rounding out a cast that fully commits to the story.

While Dune: Part Two improves upon its predecessor in pacing and character development, it still suffers from a drawn-out runtime. At nearly three hours, the film could have easily trimmed 30 to 40 minutes without losing any major impact. Some scenes linger too long, making the film feel sluggish. The complexity of the plot also makes it difficult for casual viewers to follow. Fans of the book will likely appreciate the depth, but for those unfamiliar with Herbert’s work, it can be a challenge to connect with the story.

From a technical perspective, this film is a major achievement, and it is no surprise that it has been nominated for five Academy Awards. It will likely win in categories like cinematography, visual effects, or sound. If there were an award for “Best Popcorn Bucket,” it would take that home as well.

Ultimately, Dune: Part Two is a film that excels in its artistic execution but struggles with its accessibility. Hardcore sci-fi fans and those who love the novel will find much to appreciate, but for others, it may feel like a long and exhausting journey. It is worth watching for its visual spectacle and strong performances, but if entertainment value is the main priority, it may not fully deliver.