Netflix Sci-Fi Blockbuster Is A Must-See 1980s Epic

Dune (now streaming on Netflix) was written and directed by Lynch based on Herbert’s novel and featured a pretty fantastic cast that includes Kyle MacLachlan in his film debut as Paul Atreides along with Patrick Stewart, Brad Dourif, Dean Stockwell, Virginia Madsen, Jose Ferrer, Sean Young, Sting, Linda Hunt, and Max von Sydow.

The film tells the classic Dune sci-fi story of the planet of Arrakis in the distant future, which is the only source of the universe’s most precious commodity known as spice. Young Paul Atreides, son of Duke Leto Atreides and heir to his House, moves to Arrakis with his family to be the new overseers of the planet.

However, taking over Arrakis puts House Atreides in direct conflict with the previous overseers, House Harkonnen. Paul also learns that his destiny on Arrakis, also known as Dune, may be greater than he realizes. Lynch’s version of Dune tells this story, but your reaction to it may greatly vary after watching it on Netflix.

While Lynch’s Dune has developed quite a cult following over the years, it’s one of the most divisive adaptations of a classic novel found on Netflix. Some people absolutely hate it and think it’s far off base while others love what Lynch does and enjoy the performances, direction, and production quality of the film. Overall, your opinion of Lynch and his distinct style may color your final opinion of his version of Dune.

One thing is for certain: if you watch Lynch’s Dune, you’re in for a unique experience. If you’re looking for a more straightforward adaptation of the source material, you’re probably better off watching Denis Villeneuve’s duology. But, if you’re in the mood for something strange and different, then Lynch’s version will satisfy that itch.

David Lynch’s Dune was no easy project to bring to the screen, and you can see for yourself on Netflix. Studios quickly tried to start adapting Frank Herbert’s novel once it found success, and it took them over a decade to finally make it happen. Hollywood first started trying in 1971, with Alejandro Jodorowsky, Arthur P Jacobs, and Ridley Scott all trying to take a crack at it at one point.

While none of those projects ever made it to screen, executive producer Dino De Laurentiis brought David Lynch on board in 1981, and the movie finally came out in 1984. Unfortunately, it was a flop and only brought in $30.9 million at the box office against a budget of $40-42 million. David Lynch himself has since distanced himself from the project, having his name removed or changed to pseudonyms for future versions that were released.

While Lynch may not like his Dune movie, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth checking out on Netflix. And, worst case scenario, you can always watch the Denis Villeneuve films if you end up hating it.