Adapting ‘Dune’
After a history of failed attempts, the 2021 film adaptation may promise success at last for this sci-fi reboot
What comes to mind when you imagine iconic sci-fi films? Many will say “Star Wars,” “2001: A Space Odyssey,” “The Alien” or even “The Matrix.” The popular genre has produced a litany of household favorites.
Originally published in 1965, the sci-fi adaptation of the novel, “Dune” was released today in the US. The book was published in two separate serials in the “Analog” magazine. However, the newly released film is not the only theatrical adaptation of the book.
Back in 1971, the production company Apjac International (APJ) obtained the rights for a theatrical release of the book. However, its producer, Arthur P. Jacobs died in 1973 before the film could be produced.
By 1974, Jean-Paul Gibon had purchased the film rights from APJ and intended for Alejandro Jodorowsky to direct the movie. In the documentary film “Jodorowsky’s Dune,” Jodorosky reveals that he planned to assemble the bands Pink Floyd and Magma to produce the film’s soundtrack.
Furthermore, artists like H.R. Giger (produced the special effects for “Aliens”) were arranged to create the set design. Salvador Dali agreed to play a minor character if he was offered the highest paid revenue for an actor. Other actors included Orson Welles, Mick Jagger, David Carradine and Brontis Jodorowsky (Alejandro Jodorowsky’s son).
Alas, the eccentric film was never made. The storybook drawn by Jodorowsky would have resulted in a 14-hour film with a $15 million budget. However, the team was only able to procure a $10 million budget.
Although the Jodorowsky film was never made, the designs from the storybook went on to influence many sci-fi movies such as “Star Wars,” “Alien” and “Contact.”
Later, the film rights were purchased by Italian producer Dino De Laurentiis. He commissioned David Lynch to direct “Dune,” and by 1984 the film was released.
The 1984 film starred Kyle Maclachlan and was a box office bomb. From a $40 million budget, the film only made back $30.9 million at the box office. It was disowned by critics for its lack of faith in the source material. When released, Lynch disowned the film due to creative restraints from producers and financiers.
Overall, three versions were released worldwide. In some cuts, Lynch’s name was removed from the ending credits and replaced with Alan Smithee (a common pseudonym for directors to dissociate their names from a film).
It has been around 30 years since the 1984 release of “Dune,” and we’re now seeing a re-adaptation of the novel. Although remakes are often looked down upon, the creative attachments to the newly released Dune and the failed direction of the former film provide loads of room for improvement.
The new film comprises an assortment of worthwhile cast and crew members. Denis Villeneuve will helm as the director. He has had established credits in directing successful sci-fi films such as “Arrival” and “Blade Runner 2049,” proving himself to be an aficionado of the sci-fi genre.
The music will be produced by Hans Zimmerman, who is regarded as the most popular 21st century film composer. His music has captivated audiences in films like “Inception,” “Gladiator” and “The Dark Knight.”
Following the impressive film crew is the cast, which includes Timothee Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Zendaya, Josh Brolin and Jason Momoa.
Although there have been many failed attempts at producing a film adaptation, hopefully the new release will prove that the third time really is the charm.