Denis Villeneuve’s Dune saga has captivated audiences worldwide with its breathtaking visuals and epic storytelling. A key element contributing to the film’s immersive experience is its stunning cinematography, masterfully crafted by Greig Fraser. But beyond visual effects, the tangible reality of the film’s locations plays a crucial role in bringing the universe of Frank Herbert’s novels to life. The sweeping landscapes of Arrakis and the stark beauty of Caladan are not entirely products of CGI; they are grounded in real-world locations that lend authenticity and grandeur to the cinematic spectacle. So, where exactly was Dune filmed to create these iconic planetary settings?
The Cinematographic Brilliance of Dune
The visual splendor of Dune is undeniable, a testament to the exceptional talent of cinematographer Greig Fraser. Known for his work on visually striking films like Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and The Batman, Fraser brought his expertise to Villeneuve’s ambitious project. He and Villeneuve commenced principal photography for Dune in March 2019, concluding in July of the same year, with subsequent reshoots to refine the final product. Despite initial delays due to the global pandemic, Dune finally premiered in 2021 to widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its awe-inspiring locations that transported viewers to another world. Fraser’s return for Dune: Part Two further solidified the franchise’s visual identity, ensuring a consistent aesthetic across the films. The question of whether Fraser will continue his collaboration with Villeneuve for the anticipated Dune Messiah remains, but his contribution to the franchise’s visual language is undeniable.
Arrakis: Forging the Desert Planet in Jordan and the UAE
While studio sets at Origo Film Studios in Budapest provided controlled environments for interior scenes, the harsh and magnificent landscapes of Arrakis were primarily brought to life through on-location filming. The deserts of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates were chosen to represent the brutal beauty of the desert planet. Specifically, the Wadi Rum valley in Jordan and the Liwa Oasis in the UAE served as the primary backdrops for Arrakis.
The extreme conditions of these locations were not just visual assets; they presented real challenges for the cast and crew. Timothée Chalamet recounted experiencing temperatures soaring above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, and Jason Momoa described the shoot as one of the most demanding of his career. This physical reality translated onto the screen, adding a layer of authenticity to the characters’ struggles against the Arrakis environment.
The Wadi Rum valley, in particular, boasts a rich history as a filming location for desert landscapes. It famously provided the setting for David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia, a cinematic touchstone for desert epics. Beyond Dune, Wadi Rum has also doubled for Mars in The Martian and Mission to Mars, ancient Egypt in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, and even alien worlds in Prometheus and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Similarly, the Liwa Oasis, with its expansive dunes, contributed to the grandeur of Arrakis, having previously been utilized to depict Jakku in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and even Earth-based desert scenes in Sonic the Hedgehog.
Caladan: Embracing the Ocean Planet in Norway
In stark contrast to the arid landscapes of Arrakis, the ocean planet Caladan, homeworld of House Atreides, required a different visual approach. For these scenes, the production journeyed to Stadlandet, Norway. This region of Norway, characterized by its dramatic coastlines and cool, oceanic climate, perfectly embodied the ancestral home of Duke Leto, Paul Atreides, and the Atreides lineage. The rugged beauty of Stadlandet provided a powerful visual counterpoint to the harsh deserts of Arrakis, highlighting the diverse environments within the Dune universe.
Expanding the Universe: Dune: Part Two Locations
For Dune: Part Two, the production revisited some key locations and expanded to new ones. Filming once again took place in Abu Dhabi and Jordan, reinforcing the established visual identity of Arrakis. Additionally, the production ventured to Budapest, Italy, and other locations to depict new environments and broaden the scope of the Dune universe as the story expanded.
The Impact of Real Locations on Dune’s Authenticity
Denis Villeneuve’s insistence on utilizing real-world locations was a deliberate choice to enhance the authenticity and impact of Dune. Rather than relying solely on CGI and green screens, Villeneuve sought to ground his science fiction epic in tangible reality. He stated that he designed the shoots “according to the landscape,” emphasizing the locations’ influence on the film’s visual language and storytelling.
This approach not only elevated the film’s aesthetic but also enriched the performances of the actors. By immersing themselves in real environments, the cast could interact with their surroundings in a more organic and believable way, contributing to the overall realism of the film. Villeneuve’s commitment to blending captivating visuals with a sense of realism, evident in his previous works like Arrival and Blade Runner 2049, is a defining characteristic of his directorial style and a key ingredient in the success of the Dune films. As fans eagerly anticipate Dune Messiah, the question of where Villeneuve will take the franchise visually remains a compelling aspect of the ongoing saga.
For those eager to revisit the stunning locations of Arrakis and Caladan, Dune is currently available for streaming on Netflix and Max in the U.S.
