Photographer: See Li at Picture Capital (our favourite event photographer)
Featuring: Zendaya as Chani, Anya Taylor-Joy as Alia Atreides, Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides, Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan, Josh Brolin as Gurney Halleck
edited by AB Poeticframe, ZA and PLAy
The 2021/2024 adaptation of “Dune” is dramatic in securing its place as a classic in the antagonistic realm of cinema, reviving box offices with a original global run of $400 million worldwide. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, the film has been consistently commended for its otherworldly cinematography, phenomenal world-building and a compelling narrative that openly appreciates Frank Herbert’s staple sci-fi novel. Its cultural significance extends beyond the screen, sparking constructive discussions about environmentalism, religion, politics and power dynamics. Villeneuve’s superb adaptation has not only satisfied long-time fans of the novel but has also garnered new admirers, solidifying Dune as a cultural icon in contemporary cinema.
Dune, The story unfolds in a universe where humanity has spread across the cosmos, forming noble houses that govern entire planetary systems. Among these houses, the Atreides family accepts stewardship of the desert planet Arrakis.
Arrakis and the Spice:
Arrakis is an inhospitable wasteland, sparsely populated and covered in shifting sands. However, it holds a precious resource: melange, commonly known as “spice.” Spice extends life, enhances mental abilities, and is essential for space navigation due to its multidimensional awareness properties.
Paul Atreides:
Our protagonist is young Paul Atreides, heir to the Atreides family. His family’s move to Arrakis sets in motion a dangerous power struggle. Paul’s destiny intertwines with the Fremen people, native to Arrakis
Political Intrigue and Religion:
The novel delves into multilayered interactions:
Politics: Noble houses vie for control of Arrakis and its spice.
Religion: Paul’s journey becomes intertwined with prophecy and mysticism.
Ecology: The harsh desert environment shapes the fate of all involved.
Technology: Space travel and spice navigation play pivotal roles.
Human Emotion: Fear, ambition, loyalty, and love drive characters.
Film Adaptations
Alejandro Jodorowsky’s ambitious project in the 1970s never materialised due to budget constraints. David Lynch’s 1984 film adaptation faced mixed reviews but gained a cult following. The 2000 Sci-Fi Channel miniseries and its sequel combined events from Dune Messiah and Children of Dune.
