Dune perhaps could not have been realized in quite the same way without the use of visual effects. A combination of both practical props and stunts, alongside enhancements from CGI, have created several incredible shots that are both beautiful in their cinematography and nuanced in their storytelling.

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Whether they magnificently highlight a narrative beat, are produced to suspend disbelief, or simply just look gorgeous, these visual effects have helped to bring the book to life. Dune has been praised for its performances and script, but the look of the picture itself should be celebrated as well.

The Sandworm

The giant sandworm rises as two people watch helplessly in Dune.

The sandworms on Arrakis are one of the elements that create such an inhospitable environment for mankind. Able to sense the movement of any living or mechanical thing, these sandworms have been captured effectively thanks to the incredible visual effects, that demonstrate their unbiased murderous nature and sheer scale.

The CGI model created for the beast is incredibly realistic, but its many teeth allow the monster to immediately resonate as a significant threat. Some of the most thrilling action sequences of Dune feature sandworms moving through Arrakis, with effective techniques used to symbolize their speed and strength beneath the sand.

The Attack

The attack on house Atreidous on Dune

With House Atreides getting attacked on Arrakis, the movie required another demonstration of scale, as well as an escalation of the conflict. The combination of explosive violence and invading intergalactic ships are beautifully put to the screen thanks to the work of the visual effects team.

The images throughout the battle are stark in their absolute annihilation of a once-great house. The destruction of the city is certainly one aspect of this sequence that garners attention, but the display of such a variety of warships is also an impressive visual as well.

Space Travel

A ship arrives above a planet in Dune (2021).

In regards to the science fiction elements of Dune, early into the movie, there is a sequence that demonstrates just how space travel functions in the franchise. In a moment that perhaps will cause audiences to think back to InterstellarDune creates a compelling image of the cosmic reality of this universe.

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There's almost a notion that the vehicles used to travel from planet to planet bend space to their whim. The worlds themselves are painted with intricate detail, but it's the design of the equipment that moves humans from one place to another that is absolutely inspired, especially in regards to its shape which seems to channel the galaxy itself through its center.

The Ornithopter

An ornithopter takes flight in Dune

The Ornithopter is a critical ship for House Atreides, utilizing its quick takeoff capabilities in both battle and to travel across Arrakis itself. Their design emulates the movements of a dragonfly, with the wings moving in such an insectoid manner, combined with some stunning sound design.

The idea behind the Ornithopter is somewhat simple, but in every shot, its immaculately portrayed utilizing visual effects that allow the vehicle to look as if it's a prop or a genuine construction flying across the screen. The sequence that sees one Ornithopter ripped apart by the storm is a particularly tense demonstration of expert visual storytelling.

The House Atreides Army

Leto Atredies stands with his back to his army in Dune

House Atreides is one of the most powerful factions in the whole of the universe. This is demonstrated in everything from Dune's costuming choices to the vehicles they use. The house is a proud one and bolstered by its vast numbers. It is Leto Atreides' speech that uses visual effects to portray the scale of the house.

Although it may be a simple effect, Dune uses digital techniques to expand the army that Leto talks to ahead of their travel to the deadly planet of Arrakis. The scene is given far more levity thanks to the realization of just how many people rely on adept leadership.

Harkonnen's Levitation

Vladimir Harkonnen floating in his throne room in Dune

Dune introduces audiences to a vile leader in the form of Vladimir Harkonnen, the head of his own titular house. The character is grotesque in his appearance, which has been effectively achieved through fantastic prosthetics.

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It's the imposing floating ability of Vladimir which creates a sense of overbearing dominance though. Canonically the character cannot lift his weight, resulting in the device that's used to bring great height to his presence. It's a simple visual effect likely achieved through conventional physical structures, but one that forges the desired emotions.

Combat Shields

Gurney training with Paul with their Holtzman shields activated in Dune (2021).

Considering Dune is set in the far future, it's no surprise that the technologies available to the characters are far beyond that of current human understanding. The shields used in combat are a great example of this, with CGI perfectly reflecting how they work.

The battle techniques used by these warriors are influenced by the shielding, showing how important the design itself is to the overall narrative. The flickering image and contrasting blue and red lights help to tell the tale of war and violence in this universe.

Arrakeen

The City of Arrakeen on Arrakis in Dune

Arrakeen, a major city on the planet of Arrakis, is the main home of House Atreides when they first arrive on the world and one of the most important locations in Dune. It may be visually dull but the architecture is deliberately harsh to protect against the environmental elements that cause such inhospitable conditions.

Whether the size and strength of the buildings halt the attacks of a Sandworm, or the slanted windows help to protect those inside from the blazing sun, each visual element has been thought out in great detail and applied in conjunction with the story being told. It's a perfect example of how nuanced decisions can play a part in an audience's perception of a location.

Hunter Seeker Drone

Hunter Seeker drone in Dune

The Hunter Seeker drones are a dangerous device used to attempt an assassination on Paul. The machine is tiny in order to avoid detection, but its design combines elements of other technologies seen throughout Dune including the Ornithopter.

From its quick-moving wings to its menacing spike, the Hunter Seeker drone has been conceived through digital techniques but brought to life in a way that feels as if it has been made in the real world. What's especially stunning about the device is how much detail has been included on such a small object, all of which can be seen by the audience through numerous close-ups of the device.

The Frigate

A Space Guild friagte in Dune

The Frigate, owned by the Spacing Guild, lands in a gorgeous shot that heavily relies on visual effects to fully paint the picture of both the scale of the moment and the ship itself. Firstly, the natural environment is likely digitally designed or at the very least brought in from physical pictures into a digital platform.

The futuristic architecture of the ship is clean and demonstrates the wealth of the Guild. Crowd effects have been used once more to add a sense of comparison to the ship, as well as to bring back in the storytelling of the House awaiting the verdict of the Spacing Guild. Overall the shot and especially the vehicle, are incredible examples of how visual effects elevated Dune. 

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