I can't when was the last time I watched a movie because I was afraid I'd be missing out. To be clear: I did not watch "Dune: Part Two" because I was all hyped up for it or because the trailers looked so great. I was not eagerly anticipating the release date and envying everyone who would see it before me. What sparked my interest was that I read all those raving reviews, many of them going as far as calling it an event only happening once in a generation. I did not want to miss out on this. I have never been a big fan of the book or the first movie, but I found them quite pleasant, so I decided to give "Dune: Part Two" a chance.
It did not disappoint. On a technical level, it is perfect. The blend of practical and generated sets and effects works amazingly well, and the pace is never too hasty, as it easily happens in action-packed movies. The world building is transferred very well from the book, and the constant mystic overtone is shimmering. My biggest problem is just that I am not really into this kind of "The Chosen One" stories. Not at all. Whatever emotional string they are trying to pull, I don't have it. Plus, it is mixed with this uncomfortable "White Savior" trope that permeates the story, even though the movie tries its best to downplay this aspect. It doesn't help though that second-most screentime is given to the character of Chani, who is quite bland and goes very little beyond being the exotic woman/love interest who introduces Paul to the Fremen. Again, the movie tries to make her a more interesting character, but never does it break the stereotype. Also, maybe it is because I haven't seen the first part, but I never really pereceived the Harkonnen as a threat. Even when they managed to land a punch, I thought: Oh, now you're in trouble. The Fremen will make you pay for that. From the artistic department, I didn't like the score. Sure, it pushes you back into your seat, but now, not 48 hours after watching the movie, I cannot a single piece of melody. They should have gotten someone as composer who is still eager to prove himself.
I might find other pieces to nitpick at, but it would distract from the whole. My opinion of "Dune" is a favourable one. "Dune: Part Two" is probably the best adaptation you can make of the book, but it becomes more and more of a mystery to me why people think it's great.