Special edition spices 'Dune' up

Finally after 22-years of waiting, the extended version of "Dune" has seen release in the United States. This is the complete version of the 1984 film, based on the book by Frank Herbert. \nFor those who've never seen it, "Dune" is science fiction epic meets grandiose art film. The planet Dune is the sole supplier of a substance known as spice, which fuels all space travel. This sets the stage for a struggle between two competing royal houses and the prophetic rise of Muad'Dib, a messianic figure meant to lead a holy war against the universe. It's a dark and brooding world of assassination, bloodshed and betrayal.\n"Dune" is definitely not a beer and pretzels film. The visuals are a stunning mix of rococo gilt and ominous industrial latex, heightened by an incredible soundtrack performed by Toto and ambient musician Brian Eno. The acting is sterling, the special effects remain satisfactory even after two decades, and the narrative it's often times confusing. \nThe characters' thoughts are audibly worked in around the dialogue, which will be a major turn-off for the casual viewer. The jumbled lexicon and complicated storyline may also frustrate moviegoers accustomed to traditional cinema's straightforward style.\nThere are many significant differences between the extended and theatrical releases. Scenes are fleshed out and confusing story points from the theatrical release are clarified -- perhaps overly so. The extended opening explains background details at great length through a lengthy slide-show of illustrations and voice-over narration. It's interesting, but strangely reminiscent of being read a children's storybook. If it's any indication, David Lynch is credited in the extended edition as Alan Smithee, which is Hollywood's way of handling a project when a director refuses to have his name associated with it. Fortunately, the set contains both versions if one or the other should disappoint.\nOverall, the production value of the DVD feels rushed. Though the case is attractive, it contains only a single double-sided disc, reserved for movies that bombed at the box office -- which might be appropriate, considering the movie's less than stellar theatrical debut. This isn't the idealized director's cut that many "Dune" aficionados have long hoped for.\nStill, "Dune" is an excellent movie. Fans will be overjoyed by the 40 minutes of additional footage and 11 deleted scenes. It's not for everyone, but new viewers may discover a welcome relief from the recent trilogy of "Star Wars" disappointments. Be careful that you buy the correct set though since there's also a not so special edition of the abysmal Sci-Fi channel, made-for-television 2000 release sharing space with "Dune" on the store shelves.