Set in the feudal star systems of a distant future, Dune 2021 is Denis Villeneuve’s gorgeously stylized take on Frank Herbert’s 1965 literary Sci-Fi masterpiece.
Dune plot
In the extremely distant future, society has reverted back to a feudal structure, and interstellar space travel is not only possible but necessary to govern all the worlds under the rule of Padishah Emperor Shaddam Corrino IV. It is in this context that we meet Duke Leto of House Atreides (Oscar Isaac) who rules Caladan, an ocean planet orbiting the star Delta Pavonis. As our story begins, House Atreides is asked by the Emperor to replace House Harkonnen as the fief rulers of Arrakis.
Related: 2005 Classic Constantine Is Now Streaming On HBO Max
Arrakis is a harsh desert planet that is populated by super-powered “fremen” and sand worms that stand taller than the Empire State Building. This remote and desolate world seems to be the last place the sea-dwelling House Atreides family belongs, but nonetheless they are honor-bound to accept their assignment.
The House chosen to oversee Arrakis is important because Arrakis is the only source of what is called “spice,” a drug that not only enhances human extra-sensory abilities but is also necessary to facilitate travel across space and time, making Arrakis and its resources incredibly valuable. However, it’s that value that makes Arrakis a world ripe for physical and political conflict, corruption, and betrayal.
Because of their loyalty and dedication, House Atreides would be the perfect pick as overseers of this desert planet and the universe’s most valuable resource. Except their predecessors in House Harkonnen have no interest in relinquishing control of the valuable (but dangerous) resources of Arrakis.
Related: The Gentlemen (2019) Is Amazing: Now Streaming On HBO
In order to maintain control over the dune planet, House Harkonnen conspire with the Emperor not just to send the usurpers of House Atreides packing to another galaxy but to end the Atreides bloodline altogether.
What follows is a genuine space epic, masterfully crafted by Denis Villeneuve (Sicario, Arrival, Bladerunner 2049) who brings Frank Herbert’s 1965 literary Sci-Fi vision to life in a way that will satisfy fans of the book series as well as franchise newcomers.
Only critique: More Zendaya! Hopefully the Euphoria star will play a much larger role in the second installment, in production now.
Dune 2021 is streaming now on HBO Max.
Related: Dune sequel progress continues…
On the hunt for something to stream this weekend? Subscribe now!