As a filmmaker and full-time film colorist, I, Salik Waquas, have dedicated my career to exploring the depths of visual storytelling. Owning a post-production color grading suite has allowed me to immerse myself in the nuances of cinematic visuals, and few films have captivated me as profoundly as “Dune: Part Two.” From the opening scene, the movie’s cinematography drew me into its world, compelling me to delve deeper into its visual intricacies. Here is my analysis of the cinematography in “Dune: Part Two.”
About the Cinematographer
Greig Fraser, the cinematographer for “Dune: Part Two,” has solidified his reputation as one of the finest visual artists in the film industry. Having worked on acclaimed projects like “Rogue One,” “The Batman,” “Dune: Part One,” and “The Creator,” Fraser consistently delivers visuals that are both striking and immersive. His ability to craft a visual language that supports a film’s narrative while pushing technical boundaries is evident throughout “Dune: Part Two.” Fraser’s collaboration with director Denis Villeneuve builds upon the groundwork of “Dune: Part One,” elevating the visual storytelling to a level that feels unparalleled in modern cinema.
Inspiration for the Cinematography of “Dune: Part Two”
Drawing inspiration from epic films like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “The Two Towers,” the cinematography of “Dune: Part Two” balances large-scale spectacle with intimate character moments. These films’ ability to convey vast landscapes and intricate emotional journeys provided a roadmap for crafting the deserts of Arrakis and the complex inner worlds of its inhabitants. Fraser and Villeneuve aimed to create a visual experience that felt both religious and spiritual, evoking a sense of humanity’s distant future while maintaining an emotional core.
They studied the works of legendary directors like David Lean, focusing on how vast landscapes can convey emotion and scale. The deserts of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates served as perfect backdrops, providing natural textures that enhanced the otherworldly feel of Arrakis. Fraser’s use of the IMAX format was crucial, immersing the audience fully in the world of Arrakis and making every dune, sunset, and battle feel immediate and tangible.
Camera Movements Used in “Dune: Part Two”
The camera work in “Dune: Part Two” reflects the emotional journeys of its characters. There is a mix of sweeping aerial shots that capture the grandeur of the desert and intimate close-ups that delve into the characters’ psyche. For example, during Paul Atreides’ iconic worm ride, the camera mirrors his meditative stillness with controlled, static shots, contrasting with Chani’s nervous energy captured through handheld, shaky movements. This dynamic approach ensures that the audience feels the intensity of the moment from multiple perspectives.
The use of fluid tracking shots during battle sequences heightens the tension, making viewers feel like they’re part of the action. The deliberate and purposeful camera movements are not just for spectacle but to deepen our understanding of the characters. The shifts between sweeping tracking shots of Arrakis’s endless landscapes and intimate, close-up moments create a rhythm that keeps viewers emotionally and visually engaged.
Compositions in “Dune: Part Two”
The compositions in “Dune: Part Two” are nothing short of breathtaking. Fraser’s framing often uses the rule of thirds but isn’t afraid to break traditional rules to convey dissonance or tension. He uses scale to convey the story’s themes, juxtaposing the insignificance of individuals against the immense power of Arrakis’s deserts. Characters often appear dwarfed by their surroundings, symbolizing their vulnerability and the overwhelming forces of destiny.
In scenes depicting the vastness of the desert, subjects are often placed at the bottom of the frame, emphasizing their smallness against the immense landscape. At other times, the framing collapses in on characters, emphasizing their personal conflicts and emotional connections. For example, the tender scenes between Paul and Chani often feature the two isolated against twilight backdrops, highlighting their bond while the world around them teeters on chaos. Symmetry is used in certain scenes to reflect order and control, especially within the imperial settings.
Lighting Style of “Dune: Part Two”
Lighting in “Dune: Part Two” is a crucial narrative tool, with natural light playing a dominant role. The harsh sunlight of Arrakis not only accentuates the desolate beauty of the planet but also reinforces the physical and emotional struggles of its inhabitants. Daytime scenes utilize the harsh sunlight of the desert, creating high-contrast images that emphasize the barren environment.
Fraser’s decision to shoot worm-riding sequences using natural daylight adds authenticity to these fantastical moments. In contrast, the interiors often use shadowy, moody lighting to underscore political intrigue and personal turmoil. Night scenes are illuminated with soft, diffused light, often from practical sources like fire or moonlight, adding to the film’s realism. The interplay of light and shadow becomes a metaphor for the characters’ internal and external battles, particularly Paul’s transformation into a leader who must navigate moral ambiguity.
Lensing and Blocking in “Dune: Part Two”
The use of lenses and blocking in “Dune: Part Two” is masterful. On the technical front, the film was primarily shot using the ARRI ALEXA 65 and ALEXA LF cameras, leveraging their large-format sensors to achieve stunningly detailed images designed for the IMAX format. Fraser utilized Panavision’s Ultra Vista lenses, which contributed to the film’s wide aspect ratio and cinematic depth. These anamorphic lenses provided the characteristic lens flares and slight distortions that add to the film’s epic feel.
The choice of wide lenses and immersive framing pulls the audience into the action, making the landscapes of Arrakis and the intricacies of character interactions feel visceral. Blocking is meticulously planned; characters’ movements are harmonious with the camera, creating a seamless flow that guides the viewer’s eye through each scene. Characters are positioned to reflect their relationships and emotional arcs. For example, Paul’s solitary figure often dominates the frame, visually reinforcing his isolation as he grapples with his destiny.
Color Grading of “Dune: Part Two”
As a colorist, the color grading of “Dune: Part Two” particularly intrigued me. The film employs a muted color palette dominated by earthy tones—sandy browns, desaturated blues, and subdued golds. Fraser and the post-production team employed a film-out process that combines the organic texture of film with the precision of digital. This skip-bleach technique enhances the contrast between highlights and shadows, creating a look that feels unique and otherworldly.
This choice reinforces the harshness of Arrakis and the solemnity of the story. Color contrasts are used sparingly but effectively; for instance, the vibrant blue of the Fremen’s eyes stands out against the monochromatic backgrounds, symbolizing their unique connection to the spice. The film’s palette transitions from the warm oranges of serene oases to the stark grays of Paul’s darker decisions, visually mirroring his transformation. This dynamic use of color grading deepens the audience’s emotional connection to the story, making every scene feel transportive.
Technical Aspects of “Dune: Part Two”
From a technical standpoint, “Dune: Part Two” is a marvel. Fraser’s choice to shoot in IMAX format amplifies the film’s immersive quality, allowing viewers to lose themselves in the vastness of Arrakis. The R&D behind sequences like the worm ride demonstrates the meticulous effort put into achieving realism. Practical effects, such as creating physical platforms for actors to stand on during VFX-heavy scenes, blend seamlessly with digital enhancements.
The integration of CGI is sparing yet impactful, ensuring that the visuals always feel grounded in the film’s world. The choice of large-format cameras with high-resolution lenses captured the minute details of the environment and characters. The shallow depth of field in close-up shots isolates characters, highlighting their emotional states. Behind-the-scenes videos showcase the intricate choreography between actors and camera operators, highlighting the meticulous planning that went into each shot.
Conclusion
Analyzing “Dune: Part Two” has been an enlightening experience that reaffirms my passion for cinematic storytelling. I believe the film sets a new benchmark for visual storytelling in science fiction cinema. Greig Fraser’s cinematography, combined with Denis Villeneuve’s visionary direction, creates a cinematic experience that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant. The film’s technical achievements, from its innovative use of IMAX to its groundbreaking color grading, redefine what is possible in modern filmmaking.
More than a movie, “Dune: Part Two” is an art piece—a journey that invites us to dream, reflect, and feel. Every aspect works in harmony to transport the audience into the world of Arrakis. For those who seek to understand the power of cinema, this is a masterclass in every sense of the word. It serves as an inspiring example of what cinema can achieve when every visual element is thoughtfully executed.