Filmmaking is truly an art form. Great filmmaking can take you into the world of the film and make you want more. When the shots are so skillfully done, it makes the audience want to be transported into that world. Film-making and world-building are two massive film foundations. Without one of the two, the film would be less stable. Films should make us imagine ourselves in that world that is shown on screen, and in my opinion, that is great filmmaking.
Now we arrive at one of the most anticipated films of the year, Dune. Wow! Usually, films that have tremendous hype will fail to live up to our lofty standards. But folks, your Echo movie reviewer will not lead you astray here. Dune is absolutely epic and beautifully shot. Words cannot simply do this film favors, and I recommend that you have to see this film! Denis Villeneuve flexed his mastery of filmmaking and world-building. It's about time that your trusted Eastern Echo reviewer gave you a glowing review. Dune is a must-see. Let’s dive in!
Synopsis
Paul Atreides is a gifted man who is seeing visions. He must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to protect the future of his people. Along the way, forces beyond his understanding conflict with the mission. Paul must then overcome his fears to survive and protect important resources.
Highlights
This was quite the ensemble cast put together including Oscar Issac, Rebecca Ferguson, Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, and Josh Brolin. The cast was clearly very much into their character and the story. Sometimes these massive casts can leave one actor out to dry without much to do, but not here, as each one of these characters was written and acted beautifully. Strong cast leads to strong results, and that was the result with Dune.
The story is well crafted. It is fluid and easy to understand. In my opinion, there were no gaping holes in the story or weird plot holes. The story felt tight and straightforward. This film should be praised for that and should pick up a lot of awards during award season.
As stated before, this film was beautifully shot. This film is clearly meant to be seen in IMAX. This is a massive production that needs every inch of the screen available. We get so many beautiful dessert shots, rain, and overall beautiful architecture throughout the film. The cinematography was excellent. I will not be surprised at all if this film wins an Oscar.
The world-building was amazing as well. During this film, you will be able to imagine yourself in these deserts and in the amazingly constructed buildings shown. This universe is limitless. The director Villeneuve did an excellent job transporting the audience into his world.
The use of sound in this film was also excellent. You may not appreciate it, but the sound is important. The sound of the rain hitting the armor of soldiers, dust clouds blowing through, and the eventual monsters. Now, your Eastern Echo reviewer did not see this film in the theater. But if you watch the film at home, I recommend you use headphones or surround sound to truly give you the thematic experience.
Lowlights
This was a great film, but this is a long film. Personally, the film could have been cut down by about 15 to 20 minutes. That does not take away from the storytelling or anything of the sort. But, pacing and length matter. The film was a little slow in parts and could have been shorter.
Verdict
Dune is a great film and beautifully shot. This film is a must-see and again recommend you to see the film in IMAX if you can. 4.5/5 stars.
