The 2013 Cannes Review Report: ‘Jodorowsky’s Dune’
The Cannes Review Report rounds up each day’s notable premieres, along with a sampling of their reviews and tweets from the south of France. Below is a collection of reactions to “Jodorowsky’s Dune,” a documentary about the aborted adaptation of a sci-fi classic by a beloved cult filmmaker.
“Jodorowsky’s Dune“
Category: Directors’ Fortnight
Director: Frank Pavich
Starring: Alejandro Jodorowsky, Michel Seydoux, H.R. Giger
Synopsis: “Shot in France, England, Switzerland and the United States, this documentary covers director Alejandro Jodorowsky (‘El Topo,’ ‘Holy Mountain,’ ‘Santa Sangre’) and his 1974 Quixotic attempt to adapt the seminal sci-fi novel ‘Dune’ into a feature film. After spending 2 years and millions of dollars, the massive undertaking eventually fell apart, but the artists Jodorowsky assembled for the legendary project continued to work together. This group of artists, or his ‘warriors’ as Jodorowsky named them, went on to define modern sci-fi cinema with such films as ‘Alien,’ ‘Blade Runner,’ ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Total Recall.'”
Reviews:
“The truth behind [Jodorowsky’s] deliriously bold plans are finally revealed.”
Stephen Dalton, Hollywood Reporter:
“The tone veers into film-fan geekery in places, but Jodorowsky is such a natural showman and irrepressible egotist that his ancient anecdotes never become tedious.”
“Indulging one of film history’s more entertaining ‘what might have been’ stories, first-timer Frank Pavich delivers his own mind-blowing cult movie.”
Ben Kenigsberg, RogerEbert.com:
“Suggests the collaborations and creative ferment Jodorowsky fostered leave a legacy that lasts to this day.”
“I don’t hope to see a movie at this festival, or all year long, that’s as inspiring as Frank Pavich’s documentary.”
“It is a thorough outline of Jodorowsky’s plan, but not as compelling a chronicle as a film like ‘Lost in La Mancha.'”
“While it doesn’t add much to the story as it is generally known, it does paint a vivid picture of a movie that wasn’t just meant to change the world of cinema but to change the world itself.”
Tweets:
“JODOROWSKY’S DUNE is an excellently put together docu about a truly fascinating subject. Many laughs and much incite throughout. #Cannes”
Alex Billington, First Showing:
“Jodorowsky’s Dune – So awesome. His Dune movie would’ve been extraordinary, so fascinating to see this story. Jodo was in our audience, too.”
“Jodorowsky’s Dune: having not seen any of his films (I know, I know), I still dug this lively look at his aborted adaptation. #Cannes”
Jonathan Romney, The Independent:
“JODOROWSKY’S DUNE – hugely entertaining doc on what would have been maddest film ever, good or bad. Now can’t wait to see his new one….”
“JODOROWSKY’S DUNE (B) A well told tale of what could be the greatest film never made. Excellent contributions & mixed devices. #cannes2013″
