Andres Williamson

For those who are prepared to immerse themselves in a new world, Dune delivers. I won't sit here pretending that this movie is meant to please every viewer; it certainly isn't. Denis Villeneuve is consistent to his interpretation of Dune, to his cinematic quips, and to his grandiose style. For those looking for less world-building and more intense action, Dune might not have lived up, but it certainly did for me. It is an exercise in world-building - how to traverse through a new universe with fluidity and impact. To anyone who remembers the pilot episode of Game of Thrones, it is important to consider how difficult it was for the writers to show the world effectively. I, myself, struggled to keep going with the show after finding the pilot a bit convoluted and confusing. For that reason, I find it especially remarkable how Villeneuve managed to compact such voluminous exposition in Dune pt 1. From the moment the movie started, I felt gripped, and it guided me through the universe beautifully. By the end, I felt equally versed in the world of Dune as someone who might have read the book. That is the greatest complement I can pay to this film. It goes without saying, as well, that Dune is a visual feast - an overwhelming favorite for Best Cinematography at The Oscars next year. Seeing it in IMAX only elevated the beautiful scenery and thoughtful directing beyond its unbelievably high standard. Dune's filmography also impressively pulls you into its story, and the lack of noticeable CGI helps keep you engaged and immersed - not allowing you or any audience members to get distracted by elements outside the movie's story and themes. Overall, my opinion of Dune is sky-high. It is everything I have learned to appreciate about well-thought-out writing and directing, and it is a true testament to an unwavering vision. I can recommend it for all those reasons; so if you are looking for what I've listed, I am confident Dune will meet your every expectation.