What have I been doing this week? I’m glad you asked! Here’s what’s been on my watchlist this week:

*Note: My reviews usually contain spoilers. You have been warned. Proceed at your own risk.*

Movies

Dune (2021)

It was an interesting start to my first ever double feature viewing experience with Dune. I was a bit apprehensive going into the film having not been a big fan of Denis Villeneuve’s last directing venture, Blade Runner 2049. My expectations were low for the plot, but I knew that he would deliver on the visuals. However, I came out pleasantly surprised at having thoroughly enjoyed the film.

In general, I enjoy high concept sci-fi. Dark City is possibly one of my favourites, and Dune shared a lot of elements with that film in its extensive world building and building mystery. While the dialogue was very expositional, with Timothée Chalamet having to do a lot of the heavy lifting, knowing that this was the first in a series of films excuses a portion of that. If they get most of the wordy explanations out of the way early, then they can get on with the story in future films.

The film also has a wonderfully eclectic costume and set design, which, while futuristic, clearly has roots in real societies that exist. Vast deserts, pyramidal architecture and Islamic-inspired robes are very reminiscent of the Middle East and North African region, but on a scale that most people would rarely get to see living in current society.

The cast of the film was also particularly impressive. Chalamet had a naturalness to him that made him fascinating to watch, and he paired well with both his parents. The Duke (Oscar Isaac) was shown as a firm but kind leader, and was respected by his people. Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) had an air of mystery to her as a wise women, but as the mother-son duo faced more hardships, we saw just how sharp and capable she could be. It is of course no wonder that their son is lauded as some messiah figure, combining the best of both of them.

While I have issues with how they portrayed the casual colonization of planets in the film, I do hope that any subsequent films will show more of the resistance and co-existence that can occur between two culture when they depend on one another, rather than idolizing Paul and holding him up to standards he couldn’t possibly live up to

I thoroughly enjoyed the universe that this film set up and am looking forward to see how it progresses.