Just like the “Because You Watched…” lane that pops up on your favorite streaming service, Now Playing Podcast wants to help you find the perfect companion flicks. Each week, contributor Chris Bravo brings you fresh recommends that tie in with one of our reviews.
Dune: Part Two is a hard sci-fi epic with few equals in terms of its scope, its depth, and its universe-building. It may not have the fun, light-hearted energy of Star Wars or the relatable characters of Star Trek, but what it has is a deep fascination with the human condition and its relation with resources and religion. Plus lots and lots of sand.
And you know what other sci-fi movie started with a similar premise? Stargate (1994). While not as deep as Villeneuve’s Dune, the movie does provide us with existential, thought-provoking questions, such as–What did ancient Egyptian sound like? How were the pyramids built? And why is there so much sand everywhere? Most importantly, Stargate deals with the issue of humans traveling to a distant planet and imposing their will upon a native population. Seem familiar?
For the 90s, the special effects are impressive. The cast, starring Kurt Russell, James Spader, and… French Stewart…, is effective at getting this militaristic desperation across. And the plot, the overarching story of a newly discovered portal that leads to planets unknown and the US government’s response to it, is fascinating to ponder. In fact, it was so fascinating that the movie gave rise to numerous television series and movies. So if you’re in the mood for another arid, conquering sci-fi film, I can think of no better option than Stargate.
