nashjar Reviews

Children of Dune (2003)

A long awaited sequel

[8/10 · 3 July 2004]

As a devoted fan of the Dune saga, it was a tremendous delight to see this sequel. Unlike the mini-series prequel, Children of Dune kept much closer to Frank Herbert's stories, with no noticeable plot inventions by the writers. Although I would have preferred seeing a separate mini-series for each book, rather than combining several books under the 'Children of Dune' title, I do think the stories were beautifully blended in this mini-series. This movie is a must-see for Dune fans. It is my fervent wish that this mini-series will be followed by the remainder of the Frank Herbert books, as well as the prequels written by Kevin Anderson and Brian Herbert.

Dune (2000)

Close, but not perfect

[8/10 · 3 July 2004]

I've seen and own both this version and the original movie version. I have to say there are things I like better about each movie. The mini-series version has much more time in which to tell this very complicated story. However, the writers seem to have felt the need to invent story lines that do not exist in the Frank Herbert books (i.e. Irulan's affair with Feyd). I did enjoy that Irulan had more of a presence in this movie, and I prefer the overall look of this film (the ruddiness reminding more of an arid desert than the cold greyishness of the original movie). I much prefer the miniseries interpretation of what the 'Weirding Way' is, showing it as a technique rather than a device. However, I miss the 'though-overs' from the original movie, and I thought Sting played a much better Feyd. A true Dune fan will need to see both movies...

Spider-Man (2002)

A great movie - I'll buy the DVD!

[10/10 · 10 May 2002]

I just got home from the theater and now can't wait to buy the Spider-man DVD! It was great! Not a dull moment, and the special effects were terrific! Sam Raimi, as usual, peppers the cast with well-known actors in character parts... It's pretty easy to pick Ted Raimi out, but see if you can catch Lucy Lawless (Xena, the Warrior Princess)!! Look closely at the citizens being interviewed about Spidey!

Of course, Bruce Campbell makes and appearance, and I knew the voice was familiar, but didn't know who he was until I saw the credits! He was very well disguised!

I agree, small children should probably not see this movie. There are some scary parts for youngsters. Avid comic book fans should not be disappointed, as the movie sticks pretty close to the comics, with 1 or 2 forgivable exceptions. Sam marries the right blend of human story with action. I don't believe anyone will leave this movie disappointed!