In the future, there are two great dynasties. One, the Atreides, are noble, kind, and good human beings. The other, the Harkonnen, are evil through and through, but hold great power and sway with the ruling emperor of the galaxies. The Harkonnen, led by the wicked and degenerate Baron, are out to get the Atreides, naturally. With an elaborate plot, they arrange for Duke Leto and Jessica Atreides, with their young adult son Paul, to become rulers of Arrakis, a desert planet. However, it is a trap and the Harkonnen have a traitor in the midst who will help, Baron hopes, to wipe out the Atreides line. What the H do not count on, however, is that Paul may be a long awaited miracle man capable of leading the inhabitants of Arrakis to destroy the Harkonnen and the emperor's misguided plans. Who will reign at the end, the good or the bad? The book, by Frank Herbert, is easily one of the best books of all time. It is complex and, therefore, probably difficult to bring to the screen. Nevertheless, this version is truly an acceptable homage to the book. It has good visuals and tries successfully to bring out the intricate details of the book, such as Paul as the messiah of the universe, the witch-nuns who try to influence history, and the excesses of the evil Baron. The cast is superb, with Maclachlan giving Paul a wonderfully gallant presence. Do give Dune a try. It is science fiction at its best and the film makes a valiant effort to make the story accessible to all.
