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Warning: Spoilers for Dune 2.

Directing the adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 epic science fiction novel, “Dune,” was no simple task for director Denis Villeneuve. The richness and complexity of the Dune universe meant that a faithful representation wasn’t always possible. While the film shares many similarities with the book, there are significant changes made, and understandably so. For instance, some side characters from the novel were omitted entirely, and certain character arcs experienced alterations in their conclusions. Villeneuve’s “Dune” films bear numerous subtle yet crucial differences, especially in the finale of “Dune 2,” where one of the franchise’s central figures meets an unexpected end.

In the closing scenes of Dune 2, viewers will recall that Paul (Timothée Chalamet) expressed his plan to marry Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh), following his assertion that he would always cherish Chani (Zendaya). This political union leaves Chani deeply distraught, as she admires him but disagrees with his decision. As a result, she chooses to leave solo on a sandworm, as depicted in the film’s final frame. Unlike the others, Chani does not show submission towards Paul.

In the movie version of the book, Chani’s character behaves differently than in Herbert’s novel and chooses to stay with Paul even though he proposes to another woman. This change, made by Villeneuve, is particularly effective and may even surpass the original ending for various reasons. For one, Chani’s response in the film seems more relevant to contemporary times, but it also serves as a powerful reminder that Paul might not be the hero people think he is. His eventual role as the Lisan al Gaib and potential future ascension as Emperor is not necessarily something to admire, and it appears that only Chani truly grasps this reality.

Chani’s Final Choice Is a Better Reflection of Current Times

In Herbert’s book, Chani symbolizes a traditional housewife figure, fitting for the era when her character was conceived, around six decades ago. Regardless of Paul’s choices, she remained unwaveringly loyal to him. However, in Villeneuve’s film adaptation, Chani is portrayed with greater autonomy and mirrors the year that “Dune 2” premiered on the big screen more accurately. She transcends her romantic relationship and stands as an individual entity. Indeed, she cherishes Paul deeply, but her love doesn’t cloud her own judgment.

From the start, Chani was a well-established character before her encounter with Paul in the film. Her loyalty towards the Fremen was strong even before his arrival, and this unwavering dedication didn’t change due to her feelings for him. Primarily, she values herself and her people above all else, which sets her apart from her portrayal in the novel. Once she discerns that Paul has broken his identity, as he had warned her earlier in the movie, she promptly departs from him, keeping her promise.

The climactic scene in “Dune 2” may seem brief, but its influence is profound and more fitting for our contemporary era. This doesn’t mean it was a simple choice for Chani to make. As Paul assumes his role as the Lisan al Gaib towards the end of the film, it’s evident that Chani struggles with how to move forward with him. She stays by his side, but she’s uncertain about their bond. However, when Paul unexpectedly proposes marriage to Princess Irulan, it effectively ends things for Chani. In contrast to the book, this final decision proves more effective for her character and the film’s broader narrative.

Chani Reminds Viewers that Paul Isn’t a Hero

Although Paul is widely loved by the audience, it’s important to clarify that Villeneuve’s adaptation doesn’t portray him as a hero. In fact, it presents him more as an antagonist. Similarly, while Herbert’s novel doesn’t present Paul as a hero either, Chani’s unwavering loyalty towards him despite his actions could potentially lead to the perception of him as a hero. However, in the movie, Chani’s final decision serves to remind viewers that Paul is indeed a villain, as indicated by the fact that she leaves him due to the choices he has made. In essence, if the one who fell for him ultimately departs from him because of his chosen path, it becomes evident that he has made questionable decisions.

In the movie, Chani consistently advocates for who should save the Fremen, and she doesn’t think Paul is the Known One (Lisan al Gaib). Instead, she feels that the Fremen themselves hold their destiny in their hands. Despite this doubt, she remains by his side, though with a measure of suspicion. When she sees him transform and get lost in the prophecy, she departs, even if it means being on her own. Since Villeneuve redefined Chani’s reactions to Paul at the end of Dune 2, there’s no ambiguity about whether or not Paul is a hero. Chani’s last scenes serve as a reminder that he isn’t. You can watch Dune 2 on Netflix now.

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2025-05-25 21:35

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