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Dune: Departure of the Bene Gesserit

The Bene Gesserit Depart Caladan.
Another from my series of key scene illustrations for Dune, 2018.

I had a couple of runs at this scene, working with Denis Villeneuve and Patrice Vermette. An emphasis on the omnipresence of water was important for the design of Caladan, drawing a stark contrast to the desolate Arrakis. We also loved the idea of the ship being the only source of light which, when scattered through the roiling vortex of rain and mist, would reveal Jessica's silhouette in the foreground.

My initial take was a little too romantic, and Denis rightly suggested I try another version emphasizing the sense of coldness and the violent power of the ship taking off.

The ship design seen here is based on an early sketch from George Hull, I believe, and as with all of these images, I had the pleasure of working from storyboard sequences by Sam Hudecki.

IMAX

IMAX

2.35:1

2.35:1

IMAX

IMAX

2.35:1

2.35:1

Out of interest, I replicated the lower exposure Greig Fraser used in the final shot. It really helps to dial in the heavier mood, emphasizing the sense of power and mystery of the Bene Gesserit.

Out of interest, I replicated the lower exposure Greig Fraser used in the final shot. It really helps to dial in the heavier mood, emphasizing the sense of power and mystery of the Bene Gesserit.

Final frame as seen in the film. I love Rebecca Ferguson's pose, tightly wrapped in the cold and leaning into the violent wind.

Final frame as seen in the film. I love Rebecca Ferguson's pose, tightly wrapped in the cold and leaning into the violent wind.

A few shots from the film in motion