![The Untold Story of the Unconventional ‘Dune’ Adaptations That Never Were 2 l intro 1709510931](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/l-intro-1709510931.jpg?w=1170)
Once upon a time, gifted directors were celebrated for their eccentric creativity, unconfined by audience analytics. Amongst these artistic mavericks was Alejandro Jodorowsky, a Chilean-French director whose surreal vision for adapting “Dune” is so legendary that it spurred a 2014 documentary. “Jodorowsky’s Dune,” directed by Frank Pavich, delves into what might have been one of cinema’s most extraordinary spectacles, putting Jodorowsky himself in the spotlight. Imagining a “Dune” odyssey lasting 14 hours and featuring his own son Brontis Jodorowsky in the starring role, he conceived an ensemble of astronomically ambitious proportions.
The director’s wishlist included Salvador Dalí as Emperor Shaddam IV, commanding a hefty $100,000 per hour, with Amanda Lear as Princess Irulan, Orson Welles as the malevolent Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, and even Mick Jagger in the mix, alongside a sonic backdrop crafted by Pink Floyd. Although $2 million was poured into pre-production—which involved creative greats like H.R. Giger and Moebius—it eventually crumbled after three years despite the dedication and grand vision. Dan O’Bannon, set to oversee special effects, found himself scriptwriting in the aftermath, giving birth to “Alien.”
The tale twists further when the adaptation rights moved into the hands of Dino De Laurentiis, who sought to reignite the project and sought a director who could tackle the complex narrative of Herbert’s universe.
FAQs About These Unique ‘Dune’ Movie Attempts
- Who is Alejandro Jodorowsky?
Alejandro Jodorowsky is a Chilean-French filmmaker known for his avant-garde and surrealistic films, such as “El Topo” and “The Holy Mountain.”
- What was special about Jodorowsky’s planned ‘Dune’ film?
Jodorowsky had envisioned a 14-hour film with an exceptional cast and a musical score by Pink Floyd, aimed at creating a profound transformation in the audience.
- Why did Jodorowsky’s ‘Dune’ never materialize?
After spending a significant portion of the budget on just pre-production and not being able to secure the full funding, the project ultimately collapsed.
- Did any work from Jodorowsky’s ‘Dune’ influence other films?
Yes, some of the talent and concepts from Jodorowsky’s ‘Dune’ pre-production, notably work by H.R. Giger and Dan O’Bannon, went on to influence the creation of “Alien.”
Conclusion
The ambitious plans for Alejandro Jodorowsky’s ‘Dune’ adaptations stand as a testament to the unbridled creativity of the 1970s cinema landscape. Though these cinematic dreams never reached the silver screen, their bold inception reminds us of the unlimited scope of imagination in film. The legacy of these failed projects endures, inspiring future generations of filmmakers to dare to dream—and occasionally, to dare to fail grandiosely.