Power over spice is power over all.

70mm

On second visit Dune (part 1) moved me more than it did the first go around two years ago. As Denis' Lawrence of Arabia in sweep and in spirit, if not in perspective, the film sings. Greig Fraser's astonishing images breathe and shift as the sands with some of the most remarkably realized science fiction images this side of Ridley Scott and George Lucas. It is, however, all set up. Mysterious visions, prophecies, political intrigue.

Part 2 is pay off. The grand, breathtaking scope is retained, with the same imaginative verve that made both Part 1 and Blade Runner: 2049 pop so brilliantly. But, I think the emotional beats land much better here. Betrayals, alliances, and yes, more intrigue and prophecies, are all better tuned. The images, too, are brilliant. Eerily bleached colosseums, futuristic, diaphanous palaces, and, of course, rolling dunes of ruby-red sand make Part 2 an even more eclectic and compelling watch than Part 1.

There's a drive-it-like-you-stole-it mentality to Denis' most recent sci-fi epics. Uncomprimisingly vast set design adorning equally vast storytelling. And, I have no reason to doubt Part 3 will be anything but brilliant.

5/5