Remakes are always tricky. In the case of Dune, which first hit theaters in 1984, directed by David Lynch, the idea of a remake is even trickier. Some absolutely love the original and see it as a iconic science fiction film. While others still see the film as a misfire that didn’t quite capture the nuances of the novel it was based on by Frank Herbert.
Well, like it or not, we’re getting a new version of the science fiction novel adaptation from director Denis Villeneuve (Arrival, Blade Runner 2049). The fact that Villeneuve successfully pulled off a lauded sequel to Blade Runner, another ’80s classic, bodes well for this Dune remake.
Assisting Villeneuve in his bid to capture the mantle of best Dune ever are actors Javier Bardem, Jason Momoa, Charlotte Rampling, Dave Bautista, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, and Zendaya. The list of heavy hitters is reminiscent of the star-packed original in that the film will easily deliver dramatic moments along with epic world building special effects.
Back in the ’84 the cast included Kyle MacLachlan (Twin Peaks), Virginia Madsen (Candyman), Patrick Stewart (Star Trek, X-Men), Sting, Dean Stockwell (Blue Velvet, Quantum Leap), Max von Sydow, and Sean Young (Blade Runner). When Villeneuve made Blade Runner 2049, the reasoning was that it was an homage to the original and an extension of the story, telling us what happened to Deckard (Harrison Ford) and his world. But with Dune 2020, the question is: Was this really necessary? Can Villeneuve outdo the Lynch original?
We’ll find out soon as the film is set to be released in December. In the meantime, you can check out the trailer below.
Cover image via Warner Bros. YouTube
