Dune (2021): Top 10 Memorable Quotes

The best Dune movie quotes, whether from Frank Herbert's novels or created for the 2021 film, add depth to the sci-fi epic. While director Denis Villeneuve is often praised for the movie's expansive universe and stunning visuals, the well-crafted script and powerful lines should not be overlooked. Despite initial doubts about adapting Herbert's novel, the 2021 movie not only brought his universe to life but also enhanced it with unforgettable quotes.

These notable lines from Dune are typically spoken during pivotal moments or significant events, carrying the same weight as the story itself. Some quotes now hold even more significance with the release of Dune: Part Two, which continues the journey of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet). Whether it's Reverend Mother Mohiam's (Charlotte Ramping) test or Baron Harkonnen's (Stellan Skarsgård) invasion of Arrakis, the film's key scenes are heightened by haunting quotes that breathe life into Dune's fantastical alien world.

Dune is available to stream on Hulu and Max.

“Dreams Make Good Stories, But Everything Important Happens When We’re Awake.”

Duncan Idaho (Jason Momoa)

Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho in flight suit in Dune - Duncan Idaho (Jason Momoa) - “Dreams Make Good Stories, But Everything Important Happens When We’re Awake.”

Duncan Idaho (Jason Momoa) is a memorable character in Dune, despite meeting his demise early on in the movie. Known for his loyalty and exceptional skills as a warrior of House Atreides, he shares a special bond with young Paul. Serving as both protector and advisor, Duncan plays a significant role in Paul's life.

Paul's dreams in Dune raise concerns about the future, especially when one vision depicts Duncan's death in battle. Although deeply affected by this revelation, Duncan chooses to keep his worries hidden from Paul. He remains optimistic, offering reassurance to his friend and urging him not to dwell on the troubling dream. Unfortunately, Duncan's attempts to comfort Paul ultimately prove to be misguided.

“You Fight When The Necessity Arises, No Matter The Mood.”

Gurney Halleck (Josh Brolin)

Gurney wearing his armor and standing in front of aircraft in Dune (2021). - Gurney Halleck (Josh Brolin) - “You Fight When The Necessity Arises, No Matter The Mood.”

During a tense scene in the movie, Paul inadvertently upsets the Warmaster Gurney by casually mentioning that he doesn't feel like training. Gurney quickly responds by asking, "Why does your mood matter?" emphasizing the importance of always being prepared for battle.

Gurney, unlike Paul, has experienced numerous battles and fully understands the dangers of moving to Arrakis. His role is to ensure that the future Duke is capable and strong enough to protect himself from potential threats on the unfamiliar planet, whether it be from the mysterious Fremen or the deceitful Harkonnen. While Gurney's aggressive response may be startling, both viewers and Paul are taken aback, prompting Paul to focus entirely on the training session.

"A Great Man Doesn’t Seek To Lead. He’s Called To It."

Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac)

Oscar Isaac's Leto talking to Timothée Chalamet's Paul in Dune (2021). - Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac) - “A Great Man Doesn’t Seek To Lead. He’s Called To It.”

Duke Atreides (Oscar Isaac) faces challenges as the head of a Great House. His son Paul witnesses these struggles and the difficulties of leadership. When Paul suggests not taking on the role of Duke in the future, his father is not surprised.

Leto confesses that he never sought leadership but embraced the duty when it was thrust upon him. He shares a touching moment where he assures Paul that even if he doesn't become Duke, he will always be the son Leto needed him to be. This poignant connection ensures Leto's presence in Dune: Part Two, even after his passing.

“An Animal Caught In A Trap Will Gnaw Off Its Own Leg To Escape. What Will You Do?”

Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam (Charlotte Rampling)

Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam wearing an ornate black headdress in Dune (2021). - Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam (Charlotte Rampling) - “An Animal Caught In A Trap Will Gnaw Off Its Own Leg To Escape. What Will You Do?”

Paul and the Reverend Mother Mohiam, leader of the Bene Gesserit, don't hit it off when they first meet. Paul's rebellious behavior and the Reverend Mother's unpleasant use of the Voice on him create tension between them.

"When Is A Gift Not A Gift?"

Paul finds himself in a difficult situation when the enigmatic Truthsayer presents a mysterious box. When questioned about its contents, she simply replies with the word "pain." Despite the warning, Paul decides to bravely place his hand inside the box, determined not to withdraw it and face potential death by the Gom Jabbar. To make matters worse, the Reverend Mother adds to the tension by challenging him to succeed, revealing a glimpse of Mohiam's harsh nature.

Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgård)

Baron Vladimir Harkonnen emerging from mud in Dune (2021). - Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgård) - “When Is A Gift Not A Gift?”

Baron Harkonnen’s nephew, Count Rabban, is furious about the Emperor’s decision to give Arrakis to House Atreides. He questions his uncle about losing their control, but the Baron responds cryptically. He remains calm because he knows everything is going according to his plan. The Baron is not concerned about Arrakis, as he believes the Atreides’ "gift" is just a distraction from his own sinister plot. This ominous scene foreshadows the impending chaos.

The Cryptic Response: "I Am Commanded To Say Nothing, To See Nothing."

Liet Kynes (Sharon Duncan-Brewster)

Liet standing in the middle of the desert in Dune (2021). - Liet Kynes (Sharon Duncan-Brewster) - “I Am Commanded To Say Nothing, To See Nothing.”

The Imperial Planetologist and appointed Judge of the Change, Liet, is torn after witnessing the brutal invasion and destruction of Arrakis. When Duncan asks her to be a witness and share what she saw on the planet, she reminds him of her loyalty to the Emperor.

However, Liet eventually realizes that she cannot stay silent any longer, so she decides to go against the rules by saving Lady Jessica and Paul. Despite being a smaller character in the Dune story, this act shapes a powerful journey for Kynes as she bravely disobeys orders and sacrifices herself in the name of honor rather than obligation.

“Arrakis Is Arrakis, And The Desert Takes The Weak. My Desert. My Arrakis. My Dune.”

Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgård)

Baron Harkonnen standing up from his chair facing his mentat in Dune (2021). - Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Stellan Skarsgård) - “Arrakis Is Arrakis, And The Desert Takes The Weak. My Desert. My Arrakis. My Dune.”

Baron Harkonnen may appear intimidating with his creepy floating body, but it is his truly diabolical actions that reveal his evil nature. This becomes evident after a meeting with the Reverend Mother, where he assures her that Lady Jessica will not be harmed. However, he later tells his nephew that "no Atreides will live."

The Baron's Plan on Arrakis

According to his twisted logic, the Baron believes he isn't harming anyone by leaving them to die in the harsh deserts of Arrakis. However, his subordinates fail to carry out this plan successfully. The Baron may have underestimated the strength of the Atreides family. Yet, his cryptic statement, "my Dune," indicates his unwillingness to give up the planet easily.

"The Mystery Of Life Isn't A Problem To Solve, But A Reality To Experience."

Jamis (Babs Olusanmokun)

Jamis in close-up talking to Paul in a vision in Dune (2021) - Jamis (Babs Olusanmokun) - “The Mystery Of Life Isn't A Problem To Solve, But A Reality To Experience.”

Paul's visions of the Fremen Jamis add an intriguing layer to the movie. Even though they never actually meet, these visions depict Jamis as a supportive friend who provides guidance to Paul. However, their first encounter ends tragically, as Paul is forced to duel and ultimately kill Jamis. One of Jamis' impactful quotes comes to mind as Paul faces the challenge of navigating his Ornithopter through a treacherous sandstorm.

In a vision, Jamis imparts wisdom to Paul about the importance of moving with the flow of life's processes and joining it in order to flow with it. While this advice may not have been intended for maneuvering aircraft, Paul applies it effectively to navigate through the storm and safely land in the desert. By embracing the concept of going with the flow and experiencing the mysteries of life, Paul gains a valuable lesson in the art of letting go.

“My Road Leads Into The Desert.”

Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet)

Timothee Chalamet in ragtag attire wearing a respiration device in his nose while crossing the desert in Dune: Part One. - Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) - “My Road Leads Into The Desert.”

One of the most powerful moments in Dune is when Paul decides not to leave Arrakis and assures his mother that he is following the correct path. He surprises Lady Jessica and the Fremen by explaining that his father didn't come to Arrakis for the spice or wealth, but for the resilience and power of the Fremen people.

After his long journey to reach the sandworm riding Fremen and the grueling Amtal with Jamis, they predictably accept his request to go with them to their Sietch. Chani describes this moment best when she turns to Paul and tells him that “this is only the beginning,” implying that there are greater adventures to come.

Overcoming Fear: "I Must Not Fear. Fear Is The Mind-Killer. Fear Is The Little Death That Brings Obliteration."

Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson)

Lady Jessica staring at the camera with text all over her face and the wall in Dune (2021). - Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) - “I Must Not Fear. Fear Is The Mind-Killer. Fear Is The Little Death That Brings Obliteration.”

Most viewers will likely remember a powerful line from the epic sci-fi film, spoken by Lady Jessica about confronting fears. She uses this chant during moments of overwhelming anxiety, such as when Paul is tested by the Reverend Mother or when she and her son face a sandstorm.

Lady Jessica turns to chanting as a way to calm herself down in stressful situations, repeating the words to let the fear pass over and through her. By reminding herself that once the fear is gone, only she will remain, she finds the strength to persevere. This mantra may even stick with some fans long after they finish watching the movie.

Editor's P/S:

The article delves into the captivating quotes from the 2021 Dune movie, highlighting their significance and the depth they add to the sci-fi epic. These quotes not only enhance the film's immersive universe but also resonate with viewers on a profound level. They encapsulate the themes of leadership, destiny, fear, and the indomitable spirit of the Fremen people.

The article effectively showcases the memorable lines spoken by iconic characters such as Duncan Idaho, Gurney Halleck, Duke Leto Atreides, and Baron Vladimir Harkonnen. Each quote carries a distinct weight, enriching the story and the characters' motivations. The inclusion of images adds a visual element, helping readers connect with the characters and the scenes where these quotes are uttered. Overall, the article provides a thought-provoking exploration of the power of words in shaping a cinematic masterpiece like Dune.