I was a mess of tears by the end of writer/director Denis Villeneuve's THE ARRIVAL. While the aliens were essentially gritty reboots of the Tralfamadorians from SLAUGHTERHOUSE-FIVE, the ideas expressed about time, moments, life, communication, and learning, were all put together so well and thoughtfully that I couldn't help but be emotionally overwhelmed.
This is all to say that after watching THE ARRIVAL, I am down for any film Villeneuve makes from here on out. This includes BLADE RUNNER 2049, and his upcoming new adaptation of Frank Herbert's seminal sci-fi novel DUNE, which according to Variety he's in early talks for. This comes just months after he revealed that DUNE was one of his dream projects.
For those of you who don't know, here's the official synopsis for the novel:
Set in the distant future, DUNE tells the story of Paul Atreides, whose family accepts control of the desert planet Arrakis. As the only producer of a highly valuable resource, control of Arrakis is highly contested among the noble families. After Paul and his family are betrayed, the story explores themes of politics, religion, and man’s relationship to nature as Paul leads a rebellion to restore his family’s control of Arrakis.
And that's just the tip of the iceberg. The first book alone is like a million-gajillion pages.
The book was also famously directed by David Lynch in 1984 (who passed up directing RETURN OF THE JEDI to work on it). While it has gained cult status in the ensuing years, that film was known as a commercial and critical flop. I personally that it's a beautiful and well-acted film that just has major pacing and exposition problems. But your mileage may vary.
Anyway, I can't wait. I think that he might be the perfect person to do it, as he knows how to stage action (i.e. SICARIO), but is also thoughtful and mindful of character. He may not be Jodorowsky, but then again, who is?
But what about you Schmoes? You down for this news? And what's your opinion on Lynch's adaptation? Sound off below!
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