DAVID LYNCH: ABSURD ENCOUNTERS, PART 4

"I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration."

After the critical and commercial success of THE ELEPHANT MAN, David Lynch was suddenly a hot commodity in Hollywood, although it soon became clear that, although many studios were seeking out the idiosyncratic director, what they wanted was another ELEPHANT MAN, and not another ERASERHEAD.

While Lynch would pass on many of the projects offered to him (which we document in this episode), he eventually signed on to direct Frank Herbert's sprawling science fiction epic DUNE for famed Italian producer Dino De Laurentiis.

The resulting film was, for Lynch, "a great sadness," a betrayal of his own artistic sensibilities and a film that was reviled by critics and ignored by audiences. Although it's gained a modest cult following in the 40 years since its release, it's generally considered a failure by most, even die hard fans of David Lynch.

In this episode, we'll tell you everything you want to know about how DUNE came to be, from previous directors who'd attempted to adapt it, to how Lynch became involved, and the myriad of troubles that the cast and crew had while making the film in Mexico. We'll also discuss the film's eventual release, its legacy, and the incredible impact that it had on Lynch's career going forward.

An Extended Episode — exclusive to CinemaShock+ subscribers — contains bonus content including our fan favorite "Somebody Needs A Nap" segment (where we read and react to reviews of DUNE that we've found on the far reaches of the internet), our "Further Viewing" recommendations and more!

Join now at cinemashock.net/plus.

SYNOPSIS:

In the year 10,191, the most precious substance in the universe is the spice Melange. The spice extends life. The spice expands consciousness. The spice is vital to space travel. The spice exists on only one planet in the entire universe, the vast desert planet Arrakis, also known as Dune. Its native inhabitants, the Fremen, have long held a prophecy that a man would come, a messiah who would lead them to true freedom.

Up Next: David Lynch: Episode 5: BLUE VELVET.

ASSOCIATE PRODUCERS:

CAST & CREW

Directed by: David Lynch

Screenplay by: David Lynch
Based on: Dune by Frank Herberg

Produced by: Raffaella De Laurentiis

Cinematography: Freddie Francis

Edited by: Antony Gibbs

Music by: Toto | Brian Eno (“Prophecy Theme”)

Release Date: December 14, 1984

Theme Song: "There's Still a Little Bit of Time, If We Hurry and I Mean Hurry" by Slasher Film Festival Strategy.

This episode was written, produced and edited by Gary Horne, Justin Bishop & Todd A. Davis.

For episode archives, merch, show notes, and more, visit cinemashock.net

Dune (1984)

DAVID LYNCH: ABSURD ENCOUNTERS, PART 4

CAST & CREW

Blue Velvet

The Elephant Man