The release of the sequel to the iconic sci-fi film Dune by director Denis Villeneuve brought immense joy to sci-fi enthusiasts. However, amidst their delight, a surprising realization dawned upon them as they delved into the intricate layers of Dune‘s narrative.
Comparing it to another beloved sci-fi franchise, Star Wars, fans couldn’t help but notice striking parallels and inspirations drawn by the latter from the former.
As they immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Dune‘s universe, fans discerned elements within the Skywalker Saga, that seemed eerily reminiscent of Herbert’s masterpiece. From themes of power struggles and dynastic conflicts to the portrayal of mystical forces and chosen ones, the echoes of Dune reverberated throughout the galaxy far, far away.
How Star Wars Draws Inspiration from Dune?
The recent claim shaking the foundation of the sci-fi fandom suggests that Star Wars owes its existence, in part, to Frank Herbert’s seminal work of science fiction, Dune. Fans ardently assert that without Dune‘s groundbreaking influence, the iconic Star Wars franchise wouldn’t have reached its pinnacle of success and originality.
Indeed, the similarities between the two are so profound that one could even argue Star Wars as the first successful adaptation of Herbert’s work, albeit from a certain point of view.
With the release of Dune: Part Two, which concludes Paul’s ascension within the Fremen religion, the parallels between the two sagas become even more pronounced. Both narratives are anchored in desert worlds, with Arrakis and Tatooine serving as central backdrops. The significance of these harsh environments to the respective stories cannot be overstated.
Moreover, the Imperial forces in Star Wars bear a striking resemblance to Dune‘s Imperium, both serving as authoritarian entities that exert control over vast territories. While the Empire is portrayed as a clear antagonist in Star Wars, the Imperium is depicted with a shade more ambiguity, adding layers of complexity to its portrayal.
The realization that Star Wars is just a worse version of Dune is actually depressing me. I’ll just be sitting here and then realize “that’s why Luke grew up on a desert planet” or “that’s why the Jedi use blades” or “Darth Maul is just Feyd Rautha” or “the ‘Emperor’ huh?”
— MOSCHINODORITO (@moschinodorito) March 6, 2024
I’ve been telling people for decades that Dune is what Star Wars wishes it could be, and everyone told me I’m crazy
— ShowALaFilmBuff (@show24studio) March 6, 2024
It really reshapes your perspective on Star Wars
— AfterSound (@AfterSoundMusic) March 6, 2024
Dune > Star Wars
— Zay⚡️ (@rollupmywrist) March 6, 2024
I can't believe it took everyone this long *including me* to realize this. The colorful laser swords really distracted people lol
— Antonius 👑🦁 (@HashemiteKing) March 6, 2024
The comparison extends even to characters, with Darth Maul’s formidable Sith Lord drawing parallels to Dune‘s Feyd Rautha. Both characters exude a sense of dark allure and serve as formidable adversaries to their respective protagonists.
Claiming similarities between these two, the debate over which franchise reigns supreme inevitably arises, with fans passionately advocating for their favorite.
However, the opportunity to experience both storylines consecutively is a cause for celebration among sci-fi enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the interconnectedness of these two monumental cinematic endeavors and revel in the shared themes and inspirations that have captivated audiences for generations.
Exploring the Resemblances Between Dune and Star Wars
As fans continue to debate the parallels between Dune and Star Wars, director Denis Villeneuve sheds light on the true nature of their relationship. While Dune stands as one of the most influential and beloved sci-fi franchises in history, Star Wars has also garnered a massive following over the years.
Villeneuve told Empire (via Syfy Wire),
“It was a very long process to find this identity in a world with the giant elephant of Star Wars in the room. George Lucas was inspired by Dune when he created Star Wars. Then as we were making a movie about Dune, we had to negotiate the influence of Star Wars. It’s full circle.”
However, beneath the surface, there exist striking resemblances that blur the lines between inspiration and replication. Both Dune and Star Wars introduce audiences to a captivating array of extraordinary creatures, none perhaps more iconic than Dune‘s colossal sandworms.
While no direct equivalents exist in the Star Wars universe, parallels can be drawn to the infamous Sarlacc pit, as seen in Return of the Jedi, evoking a sense of familiarity among fans.
In Dune, the signature weapons of the Fremen warriors, the crysknives, hold not only practical but also ceremonial significance. Similarly, in Star Wars, the weapons wielded by Jedi are known as lightsabers.
These energy blades, colored to denote the wielder’s level of training, evoke parallels to the crysknives of Dune. These parallels between the franchises strongly suggest Star Wars‘ indebtedness to Dune, potentially positioning it as more than just an inspired work, but rather a replica of Herbert’s innovative universe.
