Dune: A stunning, ambitious adaptation for sci-fi fans

Set in the year 10191, "Dune" starts off as the Padishah Emperor transfers the stewardship of Arrakis, the only planet where the supernatural spice mélange can be found, from House Harkonnen to House Atreides' Duke Leto. What follows is an epic intergalactic chess game with parables of colonial oppression, monopolistic competitions, ecological disasters, technological advancements, and power struggles.

Frank Herbert's "Dune" series is nothing short of excellent. Many varied, well-written characters are caught in the middle of an exciting plot. The book also explores how humans would react to the future rather than just showcasing technological advancements.

Director Denis Villeneuve and co-writers Jon Spaihts and Eric Roth took their liberties with Herbert's mammoth 1965 book to make the adaptation work on-screen.

The film tries to be faithful to fans of the book, planting Easter eggs like the portrait of Leto's father and the head of the bull that killed him. Although even novices can follow along, the film does not pander to anyone in particular. The narrative flows over and around like spice.

Greig Frasier's breathtaking cinematography will have you gawking at something or someone throughout the course of the film. The thundering orchestra by Hans Zimmer sets the ominous mood of the film perfectly. The costume design by Jacqueline West and Robert Morgan are every bit as opulent and elaborate as it is peculiar.

You will undoubtedly be engrossed by Patrice Vermette's retro-futuristic production design. The Ornithopter, massive spice harvesters, battleships, flying carry-alls, and sandworms are all jaw-dropping features.

The world-building is done fantastically, thanks to Villeneuve's attention to the intricacies of Herbert's world and a cast straight out of your dream.

Timothée Chalamet seamlessly blended into the character of the Duke's son Paul. His character development is satisfying to watch and transcends the "Fear is the mind killer" litany scene to one of the film's best moments.

Rebecca Ferguson superbly plays the role of Lady Jessica who comes from the matriarchal Bene Gesserit religious order. It was clear that she has certain powers but not all of them were revealed. In the next movie, I would like to watch her character arc explored more along with the profound dynamic with her son Paul.

Paul's father Leto is played by Oscar Isaac who gives a heartfelt performance as he swings between being an overprotective father and an authoritarian figure. Jason Momoa's Duncan Idaho is a delight to watch, especially in the hand-to-hand combat scenes.

They could not have chosen a better actress than Zendaya to play the enigmatic Chani and the movie's portrayal of her has me intrigued to watch what happens to her next. But overall, the Fremen characters in "Dune" do not get enough screen-time despite the movie being quite long.

So, it is a relief to know that the goosebump-inducing ending - Paul, Jessica and Chani walking towards the desert that stretches farther than the eye can see is not the last of them we will see. "Dune: Part Two" has officially been greenlit and set to release in 2023.

 The monumental scenes and euphonious music of "Dune" is a visceral feast for both the eyes and ears. Thus, it is best experienced at a theatre, but if you go, wear masks and ensure your safety first.