It’s hard to adapt such a tome as Frank Herbert‘s massive, seminal work. Of course not every attempt is going to work, or be able to include every character, plot point, and/or ‘important’ moment. Sure, changes are necessary both to condense a novel, and to provide a full movie-going experience. But some changes and omissions are strange, especially after making such a big deal about casting of a character that wasn’t actually in the finished film.
Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve is a superfan of “Dune,” no one can deny that. His love for the world of Arrakis and beyond is almost more on display in “Dune Part Two” than the previous film. There are important characters who are FINALLY introduced, and one who was cast, teased, but ultimately did not appear. We’re talking about Tim Blake Nelson (“The Ballad of Buster Scruggs,” “Watchmen“), as council to the Emperor of the Known Universe, Shaddam IV (Christopher Walken). Also, you know, husband to Margot Lady Fenring (Léa Seydoux).
Unless you’ve read the book, you probably have no idea who Count Fenring is. He’s present in some very important plot moments, and is absolutely integral to parts of the Harkonnen motivations and actions. Nelson was an interesting choice for the role, and one I was very much looking forward to seeing.
He’s not in the film. Why? The ubiqutious ‘the movie was too long.’ Nelson commented on being heartbroken over his scene being cut, and we can’t blame him.
“I don’t think I’m at liberty to say what the scene was. I’d leave that to Denis [Villeneuve] if he wants to talk about it,” Nelson told MovieWeb. “I had a great time over there shooting it. And then he had to cut it because he thought the movie was too long. And I am heartbroken over that, but there’s no hard feelings. I loved it, and I can’t wait to do something else with him and we certainly plan to do that.”
Well, maybe it’ll be included with a physical release in deleted scenes or something. OR, in the already-being-written “Dune Messiah.” At least we finally got Gurney playing the balliset this time.
“Dune Part Two” is currently in theaters now.
