TWO science fiction movies, released in the same week, show how the genre can transport you to other worlds to explore complex ideas about our present lives. When done right, it can serve as a reflection of our current social and political times. When done wrong, it can come off as just another expensive exercise in slapping special effects onto a barely believable storyline.

Dune: Part Two and Spaceman recently debuted within days of each other, in cinemas and on Netflix respectively. Both are based on acclaimed publications: The former is adapted from Frank Herbert’s 1965 book, and the latter is crafted from Jaroslav Kalfar’s 2017 novel Spaceman Of Bohemia. 

Both boast A-list Hollywood casts and directors, namely, Denis Villeneuve (of Arrival fame) and Johan Renck (of Chernobyl fame) respectively. Both also feature weird animals in supporting roles: Dune has giant sandworms that produce a powerful spice fought over by everyone; Spaceman has a talking spider that can look into your mind and manipulate your realities.