Can it be done? Can this novel be made into a movie that can do it justice? The answer is a difficult one to deduce. If one considers the mess that was David Lynch’s attempt in 1984 then the answer is a resounding, no. However, with the right budget, today’s technology and the wealth of acting talent there is, there should be no reason why a successful attempt can’t be made.
For all the errors in the 1984 Dune movie, Lynch did get the cast right and the set and overall “look” of the movie were successful. It was the changing of the script and the omission of several key characters and themes that ruined it. Lynch himself dislikes the movie, blaming a lack of cohesion between himself and the production company as well as issues with special effects for the result.
It is thought that Paramount studios have stepped up to have a go at Frank Herbert’s epic novel. This is a brave move, considering the legions of loyal Dune fanatics there are and how difficult it is to include all the characters and themes in one movie, each of them essential to the story.
Perhaps this project should go the way of the upcoming Hobbit movie, or the last Harry Potter movie, meaning that two films should be made. Considering all the theological, anthropological and ecological issues and the wealth of characters, condensing Dune into one movie could result in another mess.
Getting the right Director is also massively important. Peter Berg is thought to have been signed up to do it, although recent news is saying that he has dropped the project. A young Director eager to make his name might please some people as he may be willing to experiment a little more than most, something a Dune movie may need. However, some fans may want an established name for some kind of reassurance.
In this case I would make the point that Peter Jackson was relatively unheard of before he created the “Lord of the Rings”, three of the best movies ever made. In either case a Director who loves the story and wishes it to be seen created faithful to the novel is essential. No-one wants a return of the weirding modules, or another forgettable and inglorious death for Duncan Idaho.
I will be keeping a close eye on this one as I’m sure many of you will.
Exciting news, the ski chalet holidays bookings for our New Years trip have been sorted out. Next week is the last chance for the fee, please get it to me when you have it.