Dune 2021 Review [Spoilers]

[@xyshomavazax]

Paul freaking out in the stilltent is one of the best inclusions in this adaptation. It's his first really BIG moment of prescience, involving more than just things happening in his immediate future. I also loved how they showed his visions as _possible_ futures, not ones etched in stone. Jessica's outward strength juxtaposed with her private vulnerability was a revelation; kudos to Rebecca Ferguson for her insight into that character. Finally, I love how Chani is seen as this angelic and ethereal creature in Paul's visions, but when she shows up for real, she's hard as nails and treating Paul like another disposable offworlder.

[@johno1544]

That was great a glimpse of the Holy war that would be waged in his name that would cost billions of lives. The only way to stay on the Golden path for humanity.

[@ahmorgan]

@@johno1544 probably my favorite scene

[@ahmorgan]

@Major Problems I agree, which pushes back on the white savior trope. I think many people missed that due to the casting of the fremen.

[@o-wolf]

"i would not have let you hurt my friends" The way she just casually gives him her dagger because it would be honourable for him to be killed with it 😂💀

[@BbNaB]

The freakout felt too on the noise, just flat out stating what he was going through.

[@pczYT]

To be fair I cried for almost the 2h30 of the movie. What was way more than I expected: - The emphasis they gave on the messiah myth being planted by the Bene Gesserit stated at the beginning of the story - The Emotions showed by Rebecca Ferguson - Liet Kynes death - The sound. THE SOUND! - The way they dealt with the development of Paul's prescience (The possible futures) What could be better - Not enough Mentat's Lore - Jessica's weirding way fighting Stilgar (I saw literally nothing) - Paul giving his water to the dead when he kills Jamis - MORE FILM DAMMIT!

[@nav579]

I agree with every point you made.

[@k.t.1641]

Everyone be crying these days over everything 😆

[@S.Stiixx]

I miss the set my mind in motion scene. God that was so well written. And indeed the giving water for the dead.

[@nav579]

@@k.t.1641 Nah, this was a balanced comment. Not overly hating, not overly fanning out.

[@nav579]

@@S.Stiixx I re-read this and finished about 2 months ago, but I can’t recall this reference. What is the “set my mind in motion,” scene?

[@xray4death]

The way Paul yells at Jessica, when he tells her she made him a freak. Sent me chills.

[@Rip_Ripple]

I was in my feels at the part

[@bradfordreed6175]

My reaction: Did he just use the Voice? On second (or third) viewing: That was all Timothee, no sound effects. Very Voice-like all the same.

[@GradStudentTutorials]

same I had tears in my eyes during that scene

[@bradfordreed6175]

On fourth viewing: Yes, there was Voice. It was just subtle enough that it didn't carry in the Drive-In theatre (car radio speakers).

[@tylermerlin8320]

Yeah i imagine those experiences would be lonely.

[@AdeptCharon]

I liked how, through the visions, Jamis was literally the friend Paul didn't get to make along the way~

[@aoescool]

yeah that was one of the best parts.. also when he gets the vision of his death. he heard the inner voice saying pual must die and it really means his innocents.. he has to kill jamis

[@Travlinmo]

That was GREAT. I didn’t get it until we got to the Fremin meeting and then it seemed like an amazing idea.

[@iangagel6027]

If you notice, there a moment where the voice changes from Jamis to Chani, as if his future changed right then

[@jeanerasmus7]

Puts more weight to the iconic "I was a friend of Jamis" line.

[@cephalonscum2896]

Coffee service: worth it

[@coartramey7382]

I enjoyed it very much, and while I agree the banquet would have helped I don't know what I would have cut out to fit it in and not go past the 2.5 hour mark. It is a beast of a book to adapt. The restrained ways of foreshadowing Paul's prescience and conveying inner thoughts by actual acting, not voiceovers, were pleasant surprises. The sfx and cinematography should win awards.

[@dennisdavidov782]

Personally I'd trim the Caladan scenes to add more scenes in Arrakin, namely the banquet and the traitor sub-plot.

[@Space00Cowboy]

@@dennisdavidov782 I don't. For me It was very nice that we saw more from Caladan, it gives you a nice contrast with the reality of living in Arrakis and what does it mean for the characters. If the banquet scene remained in the movie, maybe we're talking about a 3 hrs movie. At 2.5 it already is a pretty long one. I think that Villeneuve choose well here.

[@JagsNoles28]

Same, too see Duncan's last stand giving every bit of his devotion to Paul had me welling up.

[@scottmoss3543]

The movie was amazing and the only downside is having to wait for Part 2! I hope this can be a long line of movies and thank you Nerd Cookies for educating me in the world of Dune! Love your channel!

[@davidstrober2977]

I feel like when Paul asks Duncan to go with him, in another timeline, Duncan says yes and talks Duke Leto into it. He goes to dune with Duncan and meets the fremen and jamis becomes his desert yoda. Just a thought

[@anthonytyson7639]

I wish the movie showed more of the ELITE fighting prowess of the Atraidies and the Sardakuar. And most importantly, the total dominating fighting skills, movement, and tactical acumen of the Fremen. Other than that, thoroughly enjoyed the movie.

[@SwiftTrooper5]

I liked the portrayal of the Sardaukar. I would have like their colors to be black and gold like in the books or to have been disguised as Harkonnen in the attack, but still a satisfying portrayal.

[@SK4Madhi_Freal]

@@SwiftTrooper5 Very, I was impressed with them too.

[@SK4Madhi_Freal]

I liked the way that when the Harkonens marched into the Arakeen palace and the Atreides just cut through them even though they're outnumbered but then the Sardaukar drop behind them. I was hoping to see more of the Atreides firepower and fighting skills too.

[@lokbatan]

I think you see the Fremen skills on display several times. Particularly when they come for Paul & Jessica in the desert. They hide in the sand & take out more soldiers than they have business taking out. You then see one small fremen taking out 2 or 3 of them in the hallway where Duncan makes the last stand. I think it's shown without being too obvious.

[@BoyDharma]

@@lokbatan and I think you see some of their fighting prowess in the vision Paul has when's just decimating the Sardaukar army. Also the Sardaukar look in this is great and their language is even rough and hostile sounding. Just watched it for the third time yesterday finally in the theater and just soaked in the movie. Finally love the Sardaukar saying at the very beginning. The movie definitely is worth more than one viewing in my opinion just to watch the scenery sometimes. Dennis is nothing if not a great visual story teller.

[@AdeptCharon]

I actually kind of liked that they skipped the entire traitor subplot, because I think it would have been less of an "additional layer" and more of a long-winded distraction in what is essentially a movie focusing on "Paul's arc out of his youth". I would have loved to see more scenes of some of the less prominent characters, but at the same time, I wouldn't want to cut anything from the movie as is. In the end, things like more fleshed out images of secondary characters, subplots, and profound and insightful dialogue heavy scenes like the banquet, to me are book exclusive gems that are out there to be discovered by upcoming fans who will become curious about the source material from seeing this movie. A good adaptation, in my opinion should not strive to "replace" the novel it is based on anyway, it should capture its essence, while subtly telling the audience that there is a lot of mysterious details to learn about in the original work. And Villeneuve's movie absolutely nailed that.

[@emremumcuoglu]

Words of wisdom. The movie is long enough as it is. And another 15-20 minutes would make me, a dune fan, really tired and bored.

[@levih.2158]

Well put!

[@yazanmowed]

Beautifully written, it’s like you took the words I thought and written them. Thank you!

[@aneffortlesssmile]

Well said! I've long been interested in Dune since I first watched the 80's film way back when, but never took a deep dive into this universe until after watching Deni's retelling of the story. I've begun reading the first novel just a few days ago, and I'm so excited to go on this journey with Deni's vision in mind. I hope and pray we get to see Part 2 of Dune, and so much more!

[@mannydib]

Exactly that! As fans of the book we will miss what is not there, but as an immersive and visceral experience to get newcomers into Dune I feel it succeeds

[@marceauratard6869]

In the book one of the early chapters is a scene where the Baron, Feyd-Routha, and Piter have a discussion of their evil plan. Including it would have introduced Feyd, given a fuller back story to Ewe, explained mentats, and given a better understanding of the emperor intentions. I understand that you can't have a 6 hour movie, but an additional 10 minute scene would have done a lot. Still, it was an excellent movie. One of the best I've seen in a long time.

[@shaneashby5890]

I hope they make it into a trilogy and they release all the deleted scenes that they didn’t put into the movie.

[@jamesoloughlin]

Just realized one of the main reasons I love Dune, it’s main thesis at its core, wasn’t mentioned. The Butlerian Jihad the banning of machine that mimic the likeness of the human mind. It informs so much about what is going on. I wonder how those unfamiliar with the lore will receive the movie.

[@araisikewai]

Explaining Butlerian Jihad in Dune is akin to explaining Silmarillion in Lord of the Ring. Sure it shaped the universe they're in, but that should be a-whole-nother topic to tackle by itself.

[@Glen0cide]

I agree with this the biggest thing I thought was missing was the background of why there are no complicated machines, which necessitates Mentats. I disagree with the person below above me it's essential background to dune.

[@jimkenealy6448]

@@Glen0cide Agree! All we had is a guy rolling his eyes backwards? And deleting Thufur's "We are finding them too easily" regarding Hark booby traps would have made the Hunter/seeker controller discovery more impactful.

[@mattmmilli8287]

Love seeing the different Dune channel reviews of part1. Nerd Cookies been one of the best !

[@abj358]

I find myself agreeing with all of your insights here, both positive and not so much. However, most impressive is all of the time you invested in getting us all here with your previous videos. Thanks for your dedication and effort!

[@markkelso2583]

It feels very vindicating to hear others say they feel the timeline was rushed, as this was absolutely my biggest disappointment with the film. I enjoyed the film immensely, and have, within a 24 hour time period, watched it three times now. However, the characters of Thufir, Piter, and Yueh seemed to me to be diminished to such a degree that they were barely there. Significant scenes were also eliminated (several mentioned above) that add complexity and richness to the original story. I can easily understand that this might have been a necessary evil, due to the running time of a film. But to me, it's a loss all the same. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed it immensely and like so many others, look forward to Part 2 (fingers crossed!).

[@ecurb10]

Yes fully agree. Hopefully there'll one day be an extended director's cut?🙏 (VERY extended!)

[@knockitoffhudson3470]

I particularly thought we could have had more time with the characters between landing on arrakis and the harkonnen invasion. That part felt rushed. The yueh stuff isn't explained enough in the movie to make sense.

[@Joshua0810]

3:18 Everything you said from that point on is how I felt too. I know the entire story of "Dune", but there were so many moments in the movie where I was caught completely off guard when something happened that I knew was going to happen anyways. I literally had to hold back my tears so many times in the second half of the film. Whether it were tears of joy or tears of sadness. Like you said, "Dune" is cinema at its finest.

[@speedisoftheessence]

Thank you for this review. I was hoping we'd see the water of life scene as the final scene of the film but it would make a magnificent opening scene to the second film as well.

[@GoldLBS]

I dont know anything about dune however its almost perfectly paced. The abrupt ending is its only flaw. But this is coming from a dune newbie. Giving him the maudib name would have been a much better ending and i didnt know about it until you mentioned it. One if the best films I've ever seen.

[@DigitalJakeT]

We all missed scenes that were key to world building. The banquet establishes Jessica with the indigenous people, so it should have been there. The other scene missing was when the Shadot Mapes shows Jessica the hidden garden in the keep. It showed that there was potential to make Arrakis lush again.

[@TerrificRallyMaestro]

I guess the garden scene got cut because it essentially did the same thing the palm tree scene did: show how important water was while also establishing the Fremen's reverence for greenery

[@chkpnt-fq5rv]

@@TerrificRallyMaestro Yes but that was also part of the lead up to Paul, Jessica, and Leto knowing they had a traitor in their midst.

[@nav579]

They also cut drunken Duncan, but I think that’s for time, and also because they cut the whole thing where Jessica is suspected of being the traitor. They also cut out the mystery of rumors of plants on Arrakis. In the movie it seemed to be common knowledge. The mystery of who Liet was, also removed. These things were all interesting, but I get that we can’t throw everything into a movie. I’m so happy with the final product that I don’t much mind these things being cut.

[@bradleynoneofyourbizz5341]

@@nav579 The chapter where Jessica confronts Thufir as being the source of the rumors about her being the traitor is one of my favorite. It really demonstrates her abilities that she's honed to a fine razor's edge.

[@TheVagabond627]

I think it’s fair to say that the hidden garden scene had a good replacement in Duncan examining Kynes’ plant room

[@rogertheshrubber2551]

Duncan Idaho was so well done in this movie. I could very much see Jason Momoa playing Duncan in a future God Emperor of Dune adaptation. I really feel he captured the charisma and competence of Duncan in it's totality.

[@Sighphi]

I was extremely surprised at how little world building this film had. They have way more time to explain things yet they explain less. They just focused on the main story and just sprinkled a few bits as needed.

[@chrispekel5709]

I think they realised that it would slow everything down, that people into Dune would already know it and casual people probably wouldn't care. Very hard to make into a film unless it's hours long

[@PregnantSausage]

I noticed that too but as @Chris Pekel said the causal probably wouldn't have cared. I think Mamoha said an extended version of Dune was shot so maybe that is where the world building happens?

[@VapidVulpes]

It felt more like show don't tell, but maybe that's just because I'm familiar with it already. It made it feel so much more real, man I loved it so much

[@Dularr]

For the general audience. Avoid overloading the audience with details that are not immediately needed. My guess is the Sisterhood HBOMax series will provide that detail of world building.

[@araisikewai]

@@PregnantSausage Momoa said he wished there's a longer version. Doesn't mean there's one. I also wish there's at least the dinner party scene though. That scene is so important on so many different levels.

[@13gi0n]

100% agree with your review ~ loved the movie, only complaint is that I wanted MORE. More backstory, more Piter, more Baron…. But now I can’t wait for part 2!

[@User_Un_Friendly]

My biggest shock was that they left the casual (has not read the book) viewer with the impression Melange has but two uses. Used by the Guild for Navigation, and used as a religious psychoactive drug. They completely left out how Melange is a true, and proven longevity drug. Doses of Spice does in fact extend your life. I agree with your disappointment with Pieter and the absence of the banquet. Director’s cut? 👍

[@Jay.McCarty]

It's brought up in the holographic book Paul was reading on Caladan.

[@tackytrooper]

@@Jay.McCarty I'm pretty sure I remember Jessica bringing it up at one point also.

[@filipasbergmontgomery4007]

Also a small scene, but the moment that really sold it for me was the Bene Gesserit walking out of the spaceship at Caladan. Everything about that scene was perfect: The costumes, the pouring rain, the videography, and most of all the soundtrack 😍

[@jer6873]

I've never read any of the books but watched the movie. It was amazing. I quickly looked on youtube to get more info on Dune and found your channel. I'm so glad I did!

[@arcane3548]

They made an excellent job with the voice. The scene as Helen Mohiam used the voice on Paul blew me out of the seat. You are right with your points. It would had been good to see more of the highliners (not only a few seconds) and the guild, how they travel, because we all know there isn't much space travel in the story. Irulans monologue in the Lynch movie explained much more.

[@BIGE1312]

LOL! Waiting for Dune = Own Gom Jabbar test. I know right? I watched it as soon as I could on Thursday. I loved it too. So epic. The scale was spot on. Everything was so big. I hope we can get a sequel, as the movie ends right as the story is going to become even more epic.

[@alexlawrence4]

I was vaguely aware of Dune and the series before this movie. I’ve watched it twice now and I can’t stop consuming content about the story. Absolutely incredible from a story-telling perspective and just how beautiful the movie is. Can’t wait for more!

[@daxmorgan]

I was very impressed with this film. The visuals were stunning and I think the casting was brilliant. Leto, Paul, Duncan, Gurney, Chiani and Jessica were perfect. Especially Jessica in my opinion. Something about her just radiates a regal power. I did find a few things lacking however, and as with you it was me wanting just a bit more. I think certain characters were under utilized or under explored. You don't get a good sense of how torn Yueh was in his betrayal and his character seemed less pivotal than what I took away from the book. I also wish they had provided more detail of the Landsraad and the great houses and how the politics in the universe worked, since it is a critical piece of the lore and the story. They kind of glaze over the power play that the Emperor is making by moving House Atreides to supplant House Harkonnen. Other than that I loved it and can't wait to see what they do next.

[@nav579]

Yeah, I really wish they had shown how torn Dr. Yueh was. They did point out the emperor’s motivations 3 times, though, but the dialog is hard to hear sometimes so it’s easy to miss. And I agree that explaining the Landsraad should’ve been in the movie; it clarifies the political dynamics more.

[@nav579]

@Rob I felt like he was using voice dictation, or just didn’t notice a bad autocorrect, because his statements seem to indicate he has read the book.

[@nav579]

@Rob I was just pointing out that you may have assumed the worst. I have not read lord of the rings, but I still thoroughly enjoyed the movies.

[@daxmorgan]

@Rob Well, I obviously haven't read the books since I didn't catch Google's voice to text misspelling a name while I was making this comment on my phone. You found me out. How embarrassing for me... or not. Actually, not sure how I didn't catch it since I had to correct Landstraad and Harkonnen since it didn't know what the hell those were either.

[@msj7872]

I also wish they would have gone into how important mentats are in the Dune Universe.

[@henrysaizofficial]

Perfect review! I agree 100% thank you for your channel!

[@Djaybird]

I shared many of the same critiques you say here, it felt like someone had gone in and cut a good 30% out. The film could have easily been 10 minutes longer. But when i consider the whole picture and i think of all the little details, sights, sounds and the overal experience this film delivered, well my complaints seem less important. But you do feel the absence of a lot of dialogue and scenes, there are great lines from the trailer that didn't make the cut. There's a scene where Gurney sings and Denis Villenueve said it was beautiful! Hoping for an extended cut released. But overal i really loved this film and im going to go see it as mang times as i can!

[@MS-ys6vj]

first thing I noticed besides the banquet was the missing Hawat/Jessica plot and how it was used to distract the mentat.

[@jd4278]

I love your insight. The stilltent scene surprised me because I forgot about it having read the book 20 years ago. I look forward to watching your other Dune videos to remind me what I had forgotten.

[@lucagiovanetti9870]

This movie is not perfect we know that. We could have seen more and I hope we will in the next installment but it's an extraordinary movie! Stunning, powerful, captivating, fascinating, touching, mystica,l other-wordly, astonishing. Let 's focus on the qualities. There aren't that many flaws as people think! Nothing 's absolutely perfect! There's always something missing that could have made the film a lot better. Let's enjoy what's really good about it.

[@allisonfisher9304]

Your videos are the entire reason I even bothered to get into Dune, so I was ecstatic to be able to see the movie. Is it perfect? No. But in my opinion, this is one of the most visually arresting and beautifully composed films I’ve ever seen. There are lots of things left out of from the book, but really, for a movie that isn’t much over 2 hours, they did a phenomenal job. I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen, and I could follow the story pretty easily, which is a nice departure from the utterly confusing fever dream of Lynch’s version. I’m so glad they left it open for a sequel, I’m sure one will be greenlit. Hopefully we will get in the next couple years, because the first part has left me hungry for more✨

[@theturquoisedream9244]

You & Quinn's were the only two I even gave a damn about! You made me wait.😊

[@twmUX]

The dinner party scene was what I was looking forward to almost the most. So much happens in the book during that part that I absolutely loved and was fascinated by. Completely agree with all your points on why it should’ve been left in.

[@stef12321]

I’ve seen this movie several times in the cinema and I think it’s one of the best movies these years. It led me to your videos and found out how deep the lore gets. Now I really do think about reading the books since I’m a really big fantasy/sci-fi fan. These videos of u of dune lore are amazing! Thanks!

[@nav579]

Yeah, this is a great channel. 🙂

[@7woundsfist]

I understand why the banquet scene was cut though it's one of my favorites in the book. Sharon Duncan's Kynes I was iffy about at first but she killed it. One of the things that I was impressed with was the Sardaukar were finally terrifying. Now it makes sense why EVERYONE is scared shitless of them.

[@genreartwithjb5095]

Visual masterpiece. Very true to the book.

[@creagfuentes1768]

I really enjoy your videos, and I enjoyed the movie. I agree that leaving the banquet out was disappointing. However, one thing I cannot understand is why every film adaptation leaves out the note Thuffir finds and the confrontation Thuffir and Jessica have. It is sooo integral to so many amazing moments and relationships. First, it solidified the love Leto had for Jessica. Second, it shows Jessica’s skill and power. And lastly, it provides my favorite moment in the book between Gurney, Paul, and Jessica. I now feel there is no development for that moment and it is wasted. Overall the movie was good, but it was such a star studded cast, with a book that does interpersonal moments so well it’s sad that the actors did not get their chance to shine.

[@dnichl]

loved it so much only real flaw is i just wanted more. a 3hr runtime would have been great and given denis more room to develop and show his vision of dune. I wanted to see a dinner scene and the atreides settling in on arrakis. I wanted to see more of the bene gesserit and their role shown to the ppl that haven't read the books or watched dune 1984. but for it to be commercially viable they really had to nail that 'lower' runtime with less wriggle room to fit everything i feel would have made it perfect. part 2 better be 3hrs+ or at least they should invest in a directors/extended cut.

[@craig.a.glesner]

I think that Mamoa could have toned down the happy surfer dude vibe but otherwise was good, but ho,y crap Dave Batista did a stellar job as Rabban the Beast. I mean when he’s dealing with his Uncle the Baron he’s all subdued and shuffles and is nervous which of course he should be bit oddly even having read the who,e series and the first three books several times never clicked till this version, Rabban may be a parent killer but his uncle scares even him. Probably because I never gave Rabban any thought and Dave fixed that for me. The ormithopters were awesome! On the whole had I not been distracted with the thought of my new rescue kitty I would have loved it more, but real cat outweighs fake world no matter how cool and well done.

[@paultrygstad4771]

Great review. Reading the novel and seeing the movie same day was a treat. Wonderful to see a film that can reignite so much interest in a foundational story. I can’t wait for part 2!

[@borisnahalka3027]

i saw it twice and in one word: it was epic. the only issue I had, it was too short and I want more. which in a way is a compliment.

[@HouseofNick]

Sorry Nerd Cookies but I have to disagree with you on the story. I first watched the movie comparing it to the book, great disappointment. I went back and watched it just for the movie and there were many places where the creators fell short and left out areas that needed to be explained to understand the story. I then watched it with someone that knew nothing of the story and she was very confused at many parts. They should have added more about Paul's visions. Not made Jessica look so weak/emotional. This really bothered me because the Bene Gesserit are strong women that control their bodies/emotions. Showing the bull's head and old Duke's portrait with no explanation was confusing and something I had to explain to my partner. They rushed many parts of the story and should have stretched it out to 3 or 4 parts to make it be sensible to those how know nothing about the universe. The actor the played Gurney Halleck was all wrong and should have been shorter and had the noticeable facial scar. The fight scene was the perfect opportunity to give Gurney some background (explain him coming from Giedi Prime) and him knowing the brutality of the Harkonnens. The image of the bush with no leaves was a big screw up. Living plants have green leaves. Anyway there's a lot more but I'll stop here.

[@mr.2083]

^ You've summarized quite neatly how I felt about the movie. I also hated what they did to Liet and Huey. They made so many characters cardboard and shallow whilst a few adaptions of the script would've made them feel like real living people, instead of actors spewing lines.

[@briannewman532]

You are spot on. This missed the mark entirely for me. I actually put this below the Lynch version, and I was not prepared for that.

[@Lornext]

The only thing that seemed kind of off was that they didnt really set up the importance of spice, especially the "why". Just a single short scene or a few mentions why the spice is so important would have put more emphasis on why all of this is basically happening in the first place.

[@RoninTy]

Completely agree. Felt the same away about not mentioning the Butlerian Jihad or emphasizing the ban on thinking machines. Pretty crucial to the story and overall development of their world.

[@justinc411]

They didn't set anything up. If you haven't read the books you'd be lost and bored watching this.

[@nav579]

@@justinc411 While they do leave things like this out, they do provide enough context for the unfamiliar viewer to understand the movie. Important concepts are repeated 3 times, following the rule of 3. For example, the emperor’s motivations are mentioned 3 times. My friends didn’t understand how the spice was used in space travel. But that’s okay - the how doesn’t change anything - we just need to know that it’s vital for space travel.

[@vaporwave4880]

They could have shown the navigators folding space, using prescience to travel. Very disappointed not to see that. Otherwise, it’s fantastic.

[@justinc411]

@@nav579 1. Who is Kynes? This character plays such a vital role in the book. Sharon hyped her role up in this movie so much as "connecting all the pieces", but the only role Kynes plays on screen is a glorified guide and taxi driver. 2. Paul is supposed to be a mentat and this is vital to his becoming the KH. No mention of it. 3. Who are the Bene Gesserit? 4. In fact, who are any of the characters? Why do they have the relationships they do? Including the banquet scene would have been an opportunity for viewers to form attachments to the characters, and also to introduce Irulan to Paul (which is a HUGE HUGE HUGE plot point!) 5. Where is Feyd? The movie leaves out so many vital things. It's visually stunning and has an amazing ambience, yes, but it basically plays out as a series of events that niave viewers are going to struggle to connect. It's shallow like most modern movies.

[@KikeRorschach]

I feel that the movie didn't say much about the characters relationships and the political context , and while I didn't expect it to be 100% faithful adaptation, I think leaving out these elements made the movie a bit flat, there's no tension whatsoever, things just happen but there's no risk, no stakes. It's beautiful and impressive but dull. Also I don't understand how Part 2 will be made when they left out so many important things for the plot.

[@Runner452]

Great review! Just got back from the theater and really enjoyed it for the most part. I need to watch it a second time because there is so much to process with this movie.

[@JennerNuwen32]

Great review! I happen to pretty much agree with you on all points. Can't wait to see part two!

[@con_mcb]

Thank you NerdCookies for all the buildup to this movie. I read most of the books when I was younger and have been watching your videos in anticipation. They have been great! I saw Dune in IMAX last night (opening night) and enjoyed it very much. The main thing I missed was much of the witty external and internal dialogue. I understand that the internal dialogue comes across awkwardly in films. I wish certain lines were performed though.

[@con_mcb]

Have a very nerdy day!

[@NerdCookies]

I thought about changing it to my live stream outro "stay nerdy, my friends" but never have

[@con_mcb]

@@NerdCookies no need to change in my opinion.

[@kel3747]

Just finished watching this and glad you already have a review out . It's great to see the perspective of other dune fans and your channel is so extensive on the lore already which is what made me subscribe originally . Thank you for all your videos .

[@greysongreyhater7667]

Wow, I felt precisely the same way on several of those "non scenes". I was disappointed that Denis did not show the traitor conspiracy, as well as the limited screen time of Piter. After all, the traitor scene will be sorely needed in Part 2 -- I'm pretty sure there will be a Part 2 (unless Denis decides not to show Gurney seeking revenge on "you know who"). I too was so looking forward to the banquet scene, but that would have added at least 10 more minutes to the film length, so I understand why Denis cut it (hopefully we will get a "director's cut" with those scenes put back in when it comes out on blu-ray/4k). While the mini-series had the banquet scene and did it fairly well, it didn't convey the full tenseness throughout the room as Herbert's novel did. In the novel I was prepared for a possible blood bath during the banquet! BTW, great review!!

[@RoninTy]

Overall, beautiful imagery and the sound was amazing as would be expected by Villenueve. He’s a director great at world building. However my biggest issue was not mentioning the Butlerian Jihad or at least a clearly stating the ban of thinking machines. It’s a huge component of their culture and the development of the known universe. It’s why there’s mentats, Bene Gesserit, Guild navigators, etc. It’s a reason why melange is so important. The lack of computers forms so much of the “Duneiverse” and all we needed were a few lines to tie all these pieces together. While a lot of exposition was needed, especially for non-readers, they missed a golden opportunity to enrich the world. As you mentioned, it definitely is the best adaptation so far. I just missed a few key elements that would have gone a long way in developing the characters, locations, and just overall emotional depth.

[@Angryp0nY]

Your narration is definitely unique when it comes to geek stuff. Usually the popular ones are all baritone speakers but you have this breathy, even style that definitely captures attention. It makes listening very easy!

[@TarekAliFazle]

Most reviews so far have been from those who didn't read the book. It's much appreciated to hear a review firmly based on the origin material.

[@pac1fic055]

Just saw it. Didn’t want it to end. For all those that said the Dune book could not by made into a movie successfully, Villeneuve showed how it’s done. His methods should be studied by future sci-fi movie directors.

[@SapientPearwood]

Totally agree, this movie was fantastic. I was really nervous going in, because Dune is my favorite book and Denis Villeneuve is my favorite filmmaker, so there was a lot of opportunity for disappointment. But it was so good that within the first few minutes I realized this was going to be one of my all time favorite movies, and I could actually relax and enjoy it. As with all Villeneuve movies, this movie was incredibly atmospheric. That is the primary virtue of the book in my opinion, and this movie captured that so well. Looking forward to watching the next one, and also looking forward to watching the rest of the Dune 2021 breakdown videos from this channel. Your analyses are always really good.

[@themcmexchange2938]

In preparation for dune I watched all of your folklore videos to get an understanding of the universe, i Really enjoyed the gigantic scope of the film and hans zimmer transcendent soundtrack a solid story , and was pleasantly surprised to see the amount of action that was in the film , which is a change of pace from dennis vilenueve and a welcomed one , 8.5 for me , bring on the sequel and the entire series of Dennis villeneuves dune

[@daviddesrosiers1946]

Skipping the banquet scene is a huge mistake. That, and the complete lack of any explanation of what a mentat is, is and their function is also something skipped over, I believe unnecessarily.

[@jasonmills5560]

Best clear definitive review I could have imagined. It is nice to know that mind is not that "twisted"-

[@J0hnnieP]

1st off... I'm 64 AND I have a signed edition (paperback) of the book from the early '70s (in a bank safe deposit box). I've read it... 15 or more times I'm sure and the full series twice. I have the Dune Encyclopedia and a beaten-up paperback of Dune in my bedroom right now. I tried to watch this movie twice and then finally finished it the third time. EVERY downside mentioned in this video was whacking me in the head like a lead-filled blackjack (holds head and groans). BUT this is a great video and this movie has the potential to be the best DUNE movies so far. Let's see what comes up with DUNE part 2.

[@tebjosh13]

Acting, visuals, and story. Huge fan and I was so happy and excited for how well it's done and the future of the saga. Also getting ready for the movie was fun with your videos thanks.

[@Restilia_ch]

Saw it yesterday, was very pleased by it. Definitely helps that I read the book just a couple months ago so it's still fresh in my mind for the things the movie didn't explain or show. Really impressed by the ornithopters, the shields, and the sandworms. Looking forward to part 2 whenever that is.

[@cpaulwick]

It’s weird how much stuff was actually cut and how little scenes we got to see with some characters. Visually stunning and very atmospheric, but I’m not sure how it will be received by normal audiences. Still loved it.

[@idciyd3885]

As a movie 9/10 as an adaption probably 7.5/10. While a lot of things are understandably left out for timing. Some scenes not in the book and B roll stuff could've been taken out and have an actual book scene replace them. The dinner scene would have been a good place to explain a lot of the world building information. The whole hawat vs jessica plot would also have helped explain both what the mentats are and the Bene Gesserit.

[@mattmanw54301]

I was introduced to Dune by my parents a little over 30 years ago. The 84 film was a favorite when I was a kid. I wanted a sandworm toy. I had just been blown away by blade Runner 2049 when Denis was announced as working on Dune. My expectations were high, and it impressed me still. I feel like this story is as familiar to me as Luke Skywalker's, and now I can sit back and say 'they pulled it off. ' There were flaws, but overall most of them may very well be remedied in part 2.

[@Andrew-yb1uv]

I've loved the 1984 Dune since I was a kid. Now I've introduced Dune to my kids. Long live the fighters!

[@xchandler79]

The wait was worth it. I completely agree with you - I have nothing more to add. I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@SoulAbundanceIQ]

Excellent video!! I completely agree about what they got right, and what I missed and felt were missed opportunities. I'm really hoping part 2 picks up right where they left off, with Paul picking his name, and "giving water to the dead". Seems like an opportunity to really highlight the Fremen culture and water scarcity as well as the importance of Muad'dib.

[@AndreOliveira-ol3cy]

I agree with everything you said and this movie is by far the best adaptation of the book. A visual masterpiece. That being said, I kinda left the movie theater a little...disappointed I guess. I couldn't figure it out why but thinking about it now, the movie seemed kinda rushed to me. As you mentioned, we get to see very little about Arrakis politics or the interactions between the characters after the arrival on the planet. It felt like they arrived on Arrakis in the morning, went to see the harvest in the afternoon and got attacked at night, all in the same day. I wished to see a little more world building in that regard, but as far as I can say right now, that's the only complaint I have.

[@cixelsyd-much4756]

I couldn't agree any more!

[@raulduarteiii]

I hope they release an Extended Cut for home release

[@jimkenealy6448]

Yes Andre' - I felt the same way. Rushed, yet so much material skipped over. No explanation of the mentats, no description of Arrakeens defense system and the critical main shield. Sure it was a sneak attack but the total absence of guards or "combat air patrol" seemed...dopey. The Atreide soldiers were running around in pajamas. No emperor, no Guild Nav, ok it was beautiful but my theater sound system couldn't manage the actors mumbling and then caused permanent ear damage during scenes where music volume wasn't warranted.. ok ill stop.

[@AndreOliveira-ol3cy]

@@jimkenealy6448 LOL yeah. I was lucky enough because I've watched it with subtitles, so I could at least understand the mumbling. But man, the music was too loud at times! I almost had to cover my ears because I wasn't handling it

[@wjt764]

@@jimkenealy6448 would recommend watching the next part on an imax screen, as the film was made with that audio system in mind and it was perfect when I went to see it. I’ve heard a couple of people like yourself who had trouble because some cinemas didn’t get the audio mixing correctly, but I don’t think that’s at all due to a fault of the film

[@ajw5388]

Agree with all the points here. Fingers crossed that we’ll get an extended cut with some of those missing elements you mentioned some day.

[@TheKaos8]

Ahh finally I can speak freely. Had to hold back as i have seen the movie a few weeks ago. Did not want to spoil stuff. Lady Elaine of Nerd Cookies is spot on with her review. I also read the books and liked this adaptions. Go to the cinemas Dune lovers! Our money is needed to get part two greenlit and Villeneuve should get the chance to give us a continueation of his movie.

[@wing_teletran1]

I haven`t seen it yet, but your review has piqued my interest. Thank you and your channel rocks!

[@paul454]

I was disappointed overall. If I had never read the book, I would have loved it, instead I was pretty neutral. Yes, the visuals and soundtrack were excellent, but it all comes down to the story for me. I agree with your objections. No backstory on the Harkonnen/Atreides feud. Basically no emperor. No backstory on the Sardaukar. No mention of Mentats at all, or that Paul was secretly trained as a Mentat. Piter's twisted nature and the plotting with the Baron (Piter was basically just an extra). Feyd was totally absent. The dinner scene and the ceremony after Jamis' death. I am leaving out some stuff, but all of these things were very important to the story.

[@Teufelhunden00]

I completely agree that I was wanting more from the Harkonnen portrayal in the film. Do you think that they are setting up a movie specific jump back in time with regard to the Harkonnen/Yueh traitor plot for the beginning of Part 2. I was also very surprised how little time Thufir Hawat received.

[@michaelh5564]

The one scenes that I felt was a little underdone, besides everything you mentioned, was the Jessica/Shadout Mapes scene. When Mapes reacted to the word 'maker' i thought to myself. Yes! And then they only went half of the way. Why was it not stated right then and there that a Kriss Knife must have blood if it is unsheathed??? It's alluded to at the end before the Jamas fight. I just hope that there is a Denis Cut and everything that we wanted is in it; and that one day, it will see the light :)

[@KrvavicaJoe]

What they don't show is why Jessica said the word maker. In the book, it is explained during internal monologue, and in the movie they don't use that a lot of information is left out for the viewer. During the said crysknife scene, Jessica was going to say the knife is "a maker of death", but she was cut short by the wail from Shadout after the first word.

[@Jay.McCarty]

Nah, Hebert broke his own crysknife lore a couple of times, that I noticed, in the book. SPOILERS BELOW! When Paul links back up with Gurney at the spice trap and when Stilgar swears his allegiance to Paul in front of the assembled crowd of Freman.

[@onepcwhiz]

Poor Josh Brolin. He looks in great shape while sparring with Paul, but when the Harkonnens attack he looks like he's in pain trying to run and get into the fight. He's an old man like me! (54). lol

[@chrispekel5709]

I'm 38 and I'm stiff as a board when I wake up! He's older than me, no doubt it hurts to get up and run straight away

[@bozhijak]

I'm 64 and blesses (so far) with the body of someone 20 years younger. Getting out of bed is another thing :) HA!

[@nfboogaard]

@@chrispekel5709 Advice that worked for me: Magnesium/calcium pill every other day, strengthens your bones and muscles.

[@onepcwhiz]

@@chrispekel5709 so was I..years ago. Okay this is going in weird direction. Lol

[@chrispekel5709]

@@onepcwhiz HAHAHAHAH I didn't mean that!

[@DiscGolfHunter]

Oh yeah, there are only a very small few opinions I was curious about, yours being one of them. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@FarrellMcGovern]

I expect that like most films, there is a number of additional scenes that were cut for length in the movie theatres, but would be restored when it is released as a "Director's Cut" edition.

[@mistermysteryman107]

I noticed that some dialogue was cut between Mohiam and Paul. Where they discuss “my father rules an entire planet” and she says “he’s losing it.” That irked me. I also wanted to see and hear more from Piter.

[@freelancenerd4804]

So glad ur giving the thumbs up! Going to see it tomorrow!!!! Thanks for those delicious cookies!

[@shanenolan8252]

Thanks elaine i was very curious to hear your thoughts.

[@ScriptDoctor]

This is a very well done and succinct review. So the next question: How many more times will you be watching this movie?

[@NerdCookies]

An uncountable amount of times until I die

[@msj7872]

@@NerdCookies my only dread is the possibility of there not being a part 2.

[@tabbyjukss6654]

@@msj7872 movies dependa on sales dont they?

[@nav579]

@@msj7872 The buzz is that things are looking good for a sequel being greenlit. 🤞🏽

[@Rodrinks]

@@NerdCookies your voice is gorgeus, and your good taste

[@dudds6699]

I not only want a sequel I want an extended eddition.

[@shaneashby5890]

I hope so as well!

[@TinMan445]

I totally agree with you, I think they did a good job adapting the book to film but I wanted more screen time to build the relationships and characters. But that’s just the nature of the beast with a movie

[@solokalnesaltam3015]

Having *not* read the books my one gripe with the movie was pacing, thus your observation about the *missing Banquet* makes total sense to me. Even considering the great acting from everyone, I had a hard time connecting with them. One more scene of normalcy before the storm would've helped me.

[@keithdubose2150]

Great visuals .... loved much of this movie ... I did want more too ... wanted to see the Guild visit to the Emperor (would have added a burst of color .. contrast to Barren Aracas), and wanted to see the Guild fold space.... Thought Lady Jessica was portrayed as either an emotional wreck or badass...

[@wk8219]

Glad you liked it :) It's hard not to fire up HBO Max and watch it right now. I've got IMAX tickets for Monday. So hard to wait. I'll re watch it several times at home after I'm sure.

[@bookchaser1103]

Psst, wait for IMAX. And I'm not even that keen on IMAX. But this must be IMAXed the first time, as surely as the spice must flow.

[@rodneylove8027]

Totally agree with your summary. I too felt the there were some missteps taken with Yueh’s character. The 84 film established the reasons for his motives in his guarded exchange with Lady Jessica. A surprising missed opportunity to take the WTF out of his betrayal. I wished the intrigues between the Guild and the Emperor were depicted as well because it would have been awesome to see Denis’ interpretation of their visuals. Too little Harkonnen scenes but I understand. Their perverse and evil lifestyles were not really hinted at. Hoping there will be some prequel series on a streaming network to fill the appetite this Dune rendition has created.

[@s.1469]

Lol my friend was telling me how she found Paul “boring” and how much she had really HIGH expectations, and I told her exactly! I mentioned that lthough he’s destined for so, so much there is nothing “outstanding” about Paul, in my opinion. I told her “hang on to that energy for the remainder of the story line.” By the way portrayal and casting for Stilgar, and Duke Leto were *chefs kiss!!* 👌 I was really hoping for the meal! It was a very important portion of the book that helped me understand motives, politics etc.

[@harrisonwade9038]

I’ve just come to realize there’s an entirely new section of movie goers born out of the marvel universe. They were the hardcore comic book kids growing up who never got any movies that were both mainstream and to their liking. They’re the type of people who LOVE it when the director puts a butt load of Easter eggs so they can gloat about how much they know compared to the average person that watched the movie. Like those that love having inside jokes and making sure they talk about them around people who aren’t a part of it. It makes them feel smarter and cooler. So, for the critics who hated dune, I honestly think it’s a subconscious thing for them where they thought the director would make it for them so they could go on their little tangents about all the little details nobody else noticed but them. And when they don’t get that, they just throw the entire movie out as “terrible”. Because they can’t objectively critique it and just enjoy it. I especially noticed this when they went on and on about how viewers unfamiliar with the books would have no idea what’s going on. And I am one of those and didn’t have that problem at all. And it seems like I’m far from alone. So it furthers the point they think we are “stupid” and have to have it explained to us at length, because that’s EXACTLY what they would do. Spend three hours explaining the premise in excruciating detail. Loving the sound of their own voice. DV is someone who understands that will ruin a movie and only cater to one type of viewer. But I don’t want that to sound as if he watered it down as a “movie for the whole family” type. It’s a masterpiece. And I have been dying for a movie like this for years. And although I like and appreciate the marvel series, especially Loki, I was so sick of them. You don’t want to watch the avengers 5 times or even a 2nd time right away. Anyway I know this an absurdly long and in depth response and may not even be right, but I feel like I’ve finally realized why I’ve felt like movies don’t get made like this anymore. And I really hope Dune is considered a success and at a minimum a 2nd one is made. If not more. Especially with Hans zimmer at the helm of the score. Something I forgot to mention they also hated which makes me feel better about my take. I can’t respectfully agree to disagree with anyone who hates on Hans. Unforgivable.

[@nav579]

@@harrisonwade9038 I’m both a Marvel fan and a huge science fiction fan. Dune was my favorite book series of all time; I read it in my late teens and re-read the first book a month ago. And I absolutely loved this new Dune adaptation. I was throughly disappointed with the 1984 Dune movie, and was so embarrassed by the Sci-Fy series that I couldn’t finish it; I turned it off in disgust. I guess my point is not all fans of the book are like that. I agree that it’s silly that people are saying you need to read the book to understand the movie. This is not true at all. The only thing that I think contributes to a lack of understanding for new viewers is that the dialog is sometimes hard to make out in important parts. A home viewing with closed captioning will solve this, but I found my friends never heard the movie explain certain concepts that were repeated 3 times, like the emperor’s motivations. I wish the dialog were a bit clearer in some scenes.

[@ardarharmondale5773]

For me, it's not it was a bad movie, nor a bad Dune movie, on the contrary but I don't think I will remember it. And I still find the Dune of Lynch better (or at least more memorable) and the TV miniseries the better adaptation. The fact is I don't know if I will rewatch it and it's pain me to think that for a Dune thing. (I still watch the previous movie and miniseries as I read the books and play one or two old PC games every year)

[@kyndread71]

The movie was simply incredible, and watching the Denis Villeneuve interview confirmed my beliefs about the movie upon leaving the theater: The movie was made for Dune fans. A regular movie-goer would not understand what is going on in this movie -- the deep interwoven politics, the dangerous Harkonnen/Sardaukar alliance, the Bene Gesserit shadow government, even the importance of the spice itself seemed to have gotten lost in the movie. But fans of Dune will LOVE how this movie was made -- I want to see it again on IMAX.

[@gs8323]

Watched Dune last night, It was so good. Great review too. Pretty much agree on all points: * Due to movie length restrictions, certain creative liberties had to be taken. Certain things couldn't be fleshed out as much as they were in the book. * Visually stunning. I'm glad there's a solid look and feel to the Dune universe. It's said that Herbert was light on visual detail in the novels because he wanted the reader to fill in the universe with their own imagination. All around fantastic take on Dune. Can't wait for Part 2.

[@projectinlinesix]

For me, this adaptation was everything I had hoped for, except Part II! Villeneuve brought to bear everything I loved about his work on Blade Runner 2049, and I couldn't be happier with it. And, excellent review! Thank you!

[@jackkennard4539]

You made a good point about the dinner/banquet. I would like to see a mini-series from the time the Atreides land with the banquet and those in the hall at that time and the parts they play before the invasion. Think of all the plans within plans.

[@levishackelton4437]

I was disappointed that they didn’t have the diplomatic dinner and the tense discussion between Jessica and Thufir. But over all, I really enjoyed the movie.

[@mb7626]

For some reason Paul's recounting to Jessica his first vision after the spice harvester incident hit really hard. You could say it's almost perfunctory (conveying to Jessica and the audience that this BG prophecy is being realized right now) but the composition and foreshadowing and line delivery all resulted in something really arresting to me. And not necessarily because I know what's coming, either. The Bene Gesserit are an extremely powerful and secretive presence that have tried to bring about and instrumentalize Paul's existence for ages, and now he's (starting to) become aware of that at the same time his future on Arrakis is being revealed. Paul's vision of Jessica is like a tantalizing representation for what is becoming known and what is still hidden both from Paul and the audience, just as everything is simultaneously on the verge of some kind of irrevocable revelation.

[@bigc7t]

Awesome review, love your voice and your channel... Thank you

[@raysmith1630]

Mmmmm, fresh baked Nerd Cookies, yummy! I have not seen the film yet. I live in a medium sized town in Northern California and our local theatre is still closed down due to covid-19 restrictions. I'm really struggling with the idea of watching it on a small screen so, I'm at an impasse as to what option I'm going to be taking. I'm absolutely going to re-read the book at my earliest opportunity. Thanks for the update Elaine. Cheers and fair winds.

[@vibesdavis6489]

Astute review. The absence of the banquet scene and perhaps more dialogue with the baron would have increased the building tension. Overall I couldn’t be more pleased. As someone who just discovered the world of DUNE I was all smiles throughout the film