The highly anticipated sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s epic adaptation of the sci-fi masterpiece, Dune: Part Two, is garnering overwhelmingly positive acclaim, with critics hailing it as a monumental achievement in cinematic storytelling. The sequel follows Timothee Chalamet’s Paul Atreides’ journey with Chani and Fremen as he seeks revenge against those who destroyed his family and strives to avert a catastrophic future that only he can foresee.
Initial reactions to the Dune sequel have praised Villeneuve for once again delivering a surprising and emotionally resonant experience, with many claiming it exceeds lofty expectations set by its predecessor.
Dune Part: Two Reviews Keep it on Par With The Empire Strikes Back
The early reviews of Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two have been overwhelmingly positive, with critics comparing it to some of the legendary movies in the genre, such as The Empire Strikes Back from the Star Wars franchise. Along with Villeneuve’s direction, critics are also praising the cast’s performance and the film’s stunning visual sequences.
Austin Butler and Zendaya have emerged as standouts among the incredible ensemble cast, as critics declare Zendaya as the star of the movie and compare Austin Butler’s performance as Feyd-Rautha to iconic villains from other franchises.
Entertainment Weekly’s Devan Coggan described the film as “pretty spectacular,” praising Villeneuve’s ability to make fantastical elements, such as spaceships and giant sandworms feel tangible and immersive.
Inverse’s Hoai-Tran Bui noted the film’s mastery of action-packed battle sequences similar to those seen in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Brandon Davis likened the visual experience of watching the film to the awe-inspiring impact of seeing Star Wars for the first time in 1977.
Early reviews of the film suggest that the Dune sequel has the potential to rank among the greatest sequels of all time. The 2021 film, which was released on streaming and in theatres at the same time, was a huge hit, grossing over $400 million worldwide, along with winning six Oscars at the 94th Academy Awards.
Anya Taylor-Joy Confirms Dune: Part Two Role
Ahead of the Dune: Part Two world premiere, rumors started surrounding Anya Taylor-Joy’s involvement in the highly anticipated sequel, particularly after fans noticed Dune: Part Two listed among the films featuring Taylor-Joy on Letterboxd. Although it was later removed, the possibility continued to spark excitement and curiosity among enthusiasts.
However, Variety has confirmed that the actress does actually make a surprise appearance as a major character in the movie. Taylor-Joy’s unexpected casting further enriches the already impressive ensemble of stars in the upcoming sci-fi film.
2024 is expected to be a spectacular year for the actress, with a significant appearance in Dune: Part Two and the highly anticipated Mad Max prequel spin-off Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, which is scheduled to be released in theaters on May 24, 2024.
Dune: Part Two is set to release in theatres on March 1, 2024.