It is the year 10,191 and Emperor Shaddam IV is worried that the growing
popularity of Duke Leto Atreidies among the nobility may threaten his power. So
the Emperor plots to wipe out the Atreidies family by setting them against their
enemy, the Harkonnens in a battle for control of the planet Arrakis.
A wooden and unknown Kyle MacLachlan and a poe faced Sean Young lead the cast.
However, the more seasoned cast members play (and over play) their parts with
relish. Those playing the looney Harkonnens and their deranged followers are
particularly enjoying themselves.
The special effects will seem dated to a younger audience raised on c.g.i. But
the sandworms are especially well done.
The movie has a retro-future style. The dresses of the ladies at the Emperors
court have a 16th-17th century look. The men's costumes are inspired by 19th
century military uniforms and the spaceships and sets have a 1930s art deco look
to them.
This original theatrical version of Dune moves at a better pace than the three
hour extended version which David Lynch hated so much he had his name removed
from it.
It is many years since I read the book but if I remember correctly this movie
is very accurate to it.
Dune is a great 1980s sci-fi movie classic.