Reviews Written by Raymond
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June 1, 2001
Great Attempt at the impossible
I am an avid Science Fiction Reader. I read 15 to 20 a year. I have read the whole Dune series (excluding the new "House" books) 6 or 7 times. My favorite is God Emperor of Dune.
I watched the David Lynch movie before I read any of these books and really enjoyed it. It is what got me interested. After reading them, however, it was almost painful to go back and watch the original movie because of the lack of depth and particularly the ending which brings on the rain (that makes me growl whenever I see it).
This adaptation is much truer to the story. It provides alot more depth and better explains the motivation of each group and character. The acting does bother me at points because it feels very stilted. Especially Paul in the first third of the production. I almost quit watching after that. However, things get much better through the balance of the film.
My best advice is that if you like a fast SciFi fix, go with the David Lynch movie. If you want something with more plot and character depth go with this version.
If you want to fully imerse yourself in a unique yet familiar universe, great characters, a great adventure and some deep spiritual soul searching read the Dune series. The first book is great, but the first four (through God Emperor of Dune) taken together will change the way that you think about life, humanity, struggle, the human spirit and the tough decisions that people in power have to make.
Unfortunately, it will be impossible for anyone to completely transform the novel into film. The book has too much going on in terms of literary references and what is going on inside the characters heads.
After watching the series, I added this to my collection. When I want a quick reminder (4 1/2 hours) of the Dune universe, I will turn to this film.
Now if someone would only make a Foundation mini-series :) there ...
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I really miss the original
3 of 3 Yahoo! Users found this review helpful I have to say that I felt alone for a long time on this issue, until I saw the other comments. This is one of my all time favorite movies, but the directors cut just feels empty without the voice over. Ridley Scott is a great director, but in this case the studio knew better. If the original was released on DVD, I would run to the store to buy it. ...