Rating: 
Summary: A decent but imperfect adaptation
Review: Fitting one novel into 80 minutes, and another longer novel into 160 minutes is challenging, but the adaptation, while taking some license with the original (e.g. the birth of the children plays out in a quite different sequence and with some different events than in the book, but with the same central ideas and feel), is largely true, emotionally and in overall thrust to the books.The portrayal of Alia is a weak link. First, the director missed the ball by using the same person to portray her as a vunerable 15 year old inheriting an empire (just a scene or two) and when the twins are coming of age. Second, the look is fine, but playing Alia is like playing Helen Keller, you have an extraordinary character outside the realm of human experience who is luminescently intelligent and has a truly bizzare mind, and she is played like Ally McBeal with a mild case of schizophrenia. The twins performances are stronger, but they come across more as reasonable beautiful people, than as basically mutants set apart from society despite their endless dialog to try to establish them as such. The Muah'dib as cult element could have been made thicker. The special effects on the whole are fine and at moments (like the Arrakeen city and Paul's sight without eyes) brilliant, but both the dream sequences and tigers are poorly done. Also, costuming is more bland than the first Dune mini-series and the women all look vaguely similar requiring you to think twice about who is who from time to time. The music is well done, however.
Rating: 
Summary: The spice does flow
Review: As a former movie-buff who has not been to the cinema since *The Two Towers* and probably will abstain until *The Return of the King*, and who has to force himself to actually rent DVDs because all he can anticipate is more disappointments, I was delighted by this second Dune mini-series: in an age when most movies seem to cater to thrill-seeking, moronic 15-year-olds, it seems that intelligence has found a safe haven in television script-writing. To those who enjoyed the first mini-series, *Children of Dune* should not come as a disappointment. Indeed, the gap between the sequel and the original seems less on TV than in print. If you expect continuity of cast and crew, however, you might be a little frustrated. Though John Harrison is still writing, he no longer directs, being replaced at that post by the quite competent Greg Yaitanes. Paul is still interpreted by the rather uncharismatic Alec Newman (in a role that owes much to Jesus's angry moods and John the Baptist's style preaching, down to his shouting «I am the voice from the wilderness») and, fortunately, Princess Irulan by Julie Cox, whose beauty, distinction and talent make all her scenes true delights. Jessica now has the traits of cult actress Alice Krige, everybody's favorite Borg Queen, whose intelligent face has fortunately been spared by the make up crew. Alia, now an adult, is also given a new face: that of Daniela Amavia, who gives a convincing interpretation of the increasingly deranged regent of Arrakis, despite an incongruously thick American accent which makes her sound unsophisticated and even sometimes vulgar. The brother and sister couple of Leto and Ghanima is touchingly brought to life by James McAvoy and Marilyn Chambers look-alike Jessica Brooks. Finally, the ghola mentat Duncan Idaho is finely interpreted by English actor Edward Atterton, who has been seen in such excellent TV series as Poirot and Firefly, and truly deserved a role of such caliber. Vittorio Storaro having been replaced as cinematographer by Arthur Reinhart, the desert is no longer represented by the canvases that gave the original film a slightly theatrical feel, but by SFX shots that give the background a little more depth. As for the music, virtually everybody seems to agree that Brian Tyler has outdone Graeme Revell. *Children of Dune* is not a perfect movie. Even the script is not above reproach : Stilgar's ride ends rather anti-climactically, the Bene Gesserit appear to be limited to moving at lightspeed, the reasons for the various «plans within plans» are not always very clear. But it is a movie that actually «takes you there», draws you into its universe, so much so that you feel almost homesick when it is over. As a fan of Frank Herbert's books, I was delighted to see his visions brought to life with such obvious intelligence and love, and felt the producers had actually made a film for «people like me», not some formulaic crowd-pleaser which I might enjoy in a shallow, generic sort of way. *Children of Dune* is a gift to the literate sci-fi community, which we should all repay by purchasing our own copies, so as to enable the producers to go on with God-Emperor, Heretics and Chapterhouse. Moreover, they are the same people who gave us the *Riverworld* movie, and we certainly do not want this other adaptation to be deprived of sequels either.
Rating:
Summary: Superb in many ways
Review: This miniseries was everything I hoped it would be, in the sense that it does a wonderful job of telling a great story that was badly told in its original form. The book Children of Dune contains many wonderful ideas and musings, but is overall too long and difficult to read. I knew that if cut down properly for the screen, it had great potential, and I was glad to see the makers of this mini capitalize on that potential. It outshines the first Dune miniseries through its excellence in directing and acting. I am glad that Greg Yaitanes was picked to direct this one; he shows a firm grasp of the tools available to modern directors, especially in his use of music to enhance the visual experience and build energy/suspense. My only complaint is that his directing is occasionally derivative from Peter Jackson's work on Lord of the Rings. This is really no problem; if you're going to pick someone to emulate in directing an epic story, Jackson is a good choice. Yaitanes shows a great ability to handle actors as well as images, and I hope he moves on to feature film. I have the same high hopes for some of the actors. Alec Newman was the real force behind the first mini -- while he did a poor job playing the young Paul, he was sublime in the role of Muad'dib the prophet. In COD he is even better, convincingly certain of his foresight and yet tortured by his fate. Although the words 'terrible purpose' are never used, they are certainly evoked by Newman's performance. Many have said that Alice Krige steals the show; although she does a fine job, I can't agree, mainly because Jessica is neither very well scripted (which Paul and Leto are) nor very central to the story. The real center of the show is James McAvoy's Leto, and his screen presence never subsides for a moment. I would liken both his style and appearance to Jude Law -- he is intense, convincing and noble. Jessica Brooks (Ghani) is either quite a good actress herself or draws energy from McAvoy; either way, the twins have many great scenes together. The best of these is when Leto shows her his sandtrout skin; the joy in her face in the sight of his new strangeness is genuine. Julie Cox's Irulan is also very good; she seems a solid actress, and she has much more to do than in the first Dune. Sarandon is somewhat over the top, but enjoyable to watch. The only weak links in the cast are Farad'n (who falls completely flat) and Alia (who looks the part but lacks the ability to make convincing speeches). The main weakness of the picture is its verbosity; most scenes consist of two or occasionally three characters discussing recent events. At times this makes things seem to drag on. But when the action occurs -- when Leto tests his newfound powers, or Duncan Idaho is nearly forced to kill Paul -- everything feels just right.
Rating:
Summary: We move forward, we come back, we move forward, we come back
Review: Frank Herbert's Dune novels have enticed, enthralled, and have captured the hearts and imaginations of countless readers both young and old for many years, and now they continue to spark our interest with the latest releases by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. The first attempt to adapt the Dune novel initially met with a resounding thud, but over the years it has been received in most sci-fi circles as an incredible piece of visual cinema as created by David Lynch, which has guaranteed its enduring cult status. The next attempt was made by John Harrison, who decided to adapt the novel as a made for TV Mini-Series played on the Sci-Fi Channel. It too has been met with mixed reactions, but many do agree that it does remain faithful to Herbert's literary vision. Now comes Children of Dune, a TV Miniseries which essentially combines elements from TWO Dune novels, 'Dune Messiah' and 'Children of Dune'. these two novels effectively deal with the fall of Paul Muadib, and the rise of his children, Leto II and Ghanima. The result of this adaptation is a resounding success, with Children of Dune receiving praise from audiences and critics alike. It is chocked full of engaging, believable characters, political intrigue, romance, drama, action, and a sense of awe and wonder that relates to many aspects of speculative science fiction. Alec Numan returns as Emperor Paul Atreides, the troubled Emperor as he realizes the ideals that led him to the throne have gone completely out of control, who knows there are people who wish to destroy him, yet does nothing to stop them. His portrayel of Paul this time around is even better than in the first miniseries. Susan Sarandon is excellent as the scheming Princess Wensicia, who schemes to return her family to the Imperial Throne that the Atreides stole from her father, Shaddam IV. Alice Krege is outstanding as Lady Jessica, whose exceptional acting skills and ethereal beauty definitely establish her in the role exceptionally well. James McAvoy is excellent as Leto II, demonstrating that he is not just a pretty face as his talent radiates. Jessica Brooks demonstrates dignified grace, intelligence, bravery, beauty, and enthusiasm as Leto's sister Ghanima. The woman playing the grown up Alia Atreides is equally effective as she demonstrates a wide range of emotions, also displaying the growing madness that slowly threatens to overtake her state of mind. Everyone else is exceptionally cast and play their parts very well. The costume designs, set designs, and special FX are all done incredibly well with one exception, the Sabertooth Tigers. it seems to me that they could've been done a lot better to look more realistic and less cartoonlike. That is really the only complaint I have in regards to anything with this production. If this is ever nominated for any awards in the sci-fi genre, I hope this makes a clean sweep. As always, THE SPICE MUST FLOW!
Rating:
Summary: it's good,but sad..
Review: Im not sure what Frank Herbert might think of the first adaptation of Dune. Although i like it very much. The first movie,like the book,ended like it's a one complete story and should be left alone.Now,probably like in early 70's(1971 to be precise) when the book 'Messiah' was publish(and probably stun the readers back then),in year 2002 i was shock that they've announced the sequel already in production. the first book i already consider to be a tedious task to depict it into a movie. Im so glad the movie(s) turned out ok.But'Messiah' and 'Children'?i have more doubt and think they are killing themselves. How wrong was i..I AM FAN,AND AS A FAN,I'VE WATCH THE MOVIES THAT I..AS A FAN..WANT TO SEE. However the only problem is the ending..It's just like book.It's so sad..it's hunger for another sequel,just like the book. I heard rumors that there wont be another sequel. The reason is because the fourth book has less action(which i reject this statement).But if they're not making another than why make this one? But if the rumors are true,i would suggest them to make 'Heretics' instead.The story include a monument of Leto when he completes his tranformation as a worm and died after 4000 years of metamorphosis and he's death cause the sandworms to roam again and disposed the moister in the sky of dune.they could just brief it out at the beginning and get on with the new storyline.. what do you guys think? That's said,its the only problem i have with this series.. i really hope they keep up the good work. John Harrison..u have my blessing..
Rating:
Summary: ONE OF THE BEST BOOK ADAPTATIONS I HAVE EVER SEEN
Review: There are few movies that compare with the books they are adapted from. This is one of them. The Dune TV series is a masterpiece of scenery and story that adheres strongly to the books it is derived from. Please understand that the books rely heavily on the thoughts of the characters and that is not easily conveyed in video. They have had to use some creative freedoms to give you the feel and keep the integrity of the story. Overall they did a wonderful job
Rating:
Summary: It's very good....will there be a 'director cut?'
Review: I've read all the books by Frank Herbert and his son Brian (along with Kevin Anderson) and watched both this and the director's cut of Dune numerous times, and both are just excellent. Both SciFi Channel's Dune movies were well scripted, acted, and directed. To be honest, the only thing I like the original Dune movie's was the casting of Gurney Halleck by a more charismatic and physical capable Patrick Stewart. I still see nuances every new viewing: on the development of Paul and his children, their long term plan to save mankind, and how they deal with more immediate problems like the Baron, the Emperor, and Alia. I would like to know if there will be a 'directors version' of the Children of Dune.
Rating: 
Summary: Mainly true to novel but fell short on original power points
Review: Spoiler comments within. It was very nice looking adaptation like the first series. Being one who was almost angry at Lynch for the first motion picture version I am grateful for the trueness to the novels. Many can get your jollies from the political and social web of the novel and this used more than enough time, maybe too much, to explore every facet of dialog and relationship from the original storyline. Misgivings? Guess what? Much of the meat of the story related to the 3rd novel is Leto II's exploration of his new self. When reading the novel and getting to this point it had such intensity and captured my imagination so much I almost disregarded what I had read up until that point. There were many situations he put himself in once his superman-like transformation began and this series barely gave it a mention if at all. Before I know it Leto II has returned to the palace and starts rapping up the movie falling very short of his expected appearance. Today I'm still left wondering, based on the novel, what his new symbiotic skin/suit looks and what it would look like for him to defeat the hoards of soldiers with his bare hands. Instead I got a shirtless dude in khaki pants with a bad case of shingles on one arm running in front of a projection screen TV for about 30 minutes. I dare say they did this on the cheap and it truly shows. What a horrific departure from the original that was. I can accept changes to make a novel more palatable for adaptation to the video audience but you can't give me a good reason for dumping that very enthralling chunk of the storyline. Whatever your creative or budget-related reason was I believe you were wrong and we could've lost a little bit of the footage devoted to the detailed space-opera to get more of the personal struggle and foundation building of the coming God Emperor. Additionally, I don't want to know why it was decided that the way Alia died in this series had a more effective impact than the original story. It was a death with great impact and all the drama you could want a viewer or reader to experience in book form. Not so in this adaptation and far from it. If your going to be true to a sci-fi novel lock yourself in a room and read it with yourself in mind. Stop listening to TV marketing advisors with their inaccurate audience profiles.
Rating:
Summary: An emotionally resonant, visually spectacular epic
Review: "Children of Dune," directed by Greg Yaitanes, is an epic miniseries based on Frank Herbert's "Dune" novels. This miniseries, which was scripted by John Harrison, is a direct sequel to the miniseries "Dune." Many of the cast members from that miniseries return for "Children" (Alec Newman as Paul, Julie Cox as Irulan, etc.) although some roles have been recast (Alice Krige, for example, takes over the role of Jessica Atreides). There are also a number of new characters played by new cast members. "Children" continues the epic science fiction saga begun in the first miniseries. It focuses on the imperial house of Atreides and the planet Arrakis, home to giant sandworms and source of the substance which makes interstellar travel possible. This epic interplanetary canvas is full of intrigue, politics, family strife, religious controversy, fights, and marvelous creatures. "Children" is one of the most visually sumptuous films I have ever seen; the awe-inspiring sights are superbly complemented by Brian Tyler's gloriously rich score. There are some truly magical scenes; particularly effective are the sequences featuring the majestic sandworms. The performances are solid. Julie Cox is particularly appealing as Irulan; she brings a regal grace to her multifaceted role. Ian McNeice is a villainous delight as the spectral form of Baron Harkonnen. Among the new cast members I was particularly impressed by James McAvoy in the pivotal role of young Leto; he brings a feline physicality to his mesmerizing performance. "Children" has as much in common with biblical film epics like "The Ten Commandments" as it does with other sci-fi sagas. Unlike some other sci-fi films, "Children" never feels like it's been "dumbed down" for the audience; it never feels like a commercial for toys or video games. Rather, it is a stately (but exciting!) and emotionally satisfying journey, full of wonder and rich in mythic qualities. At the end, it left me eager to see the next chapter in the "Dune" saga.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent follow-up to the previous series
Review: The Children of Dune miniseries was an excellent follow-up to the original miniseries. The two movies tie together expertly. A few cast changes are made between the two and some characters don't seem to age with time, but several of the characters do change over time, making the story a bit easier to watch. I recommend this movie to anyone who is a fan of serious science fiction.
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