Dune fans love Duncan Idaho, the character with the silliest name

A reputation says so much about somebody. Would a rose by every other identify scent simply as candy? The present adaptation of Denis Villeneuve’s Dune taking part in in theaters and on HBO Max makes a whole lot of daring inventive decisions, however one tiny element is taking over a whole lot of actual property within the discussions of the movie on-line. What’s up with Duncan Idaho, precisely? What’s that identify? It stands proud like a sore thumb, and it’s led to numerous extraordinarily good memes.

Duncan Idaho isn’t a brand new addition to the film; he’s a giant a part of the books, as nicely, and he later performs a task within the sequels. You can say that Duncan Idaho is an integral a part of Dune lore. It’d be weirder to alter his identify than simply adapt him faithfully. However in comparison with the majesty of the remainder of the movie, persons are nonetheless pausing as his identify comes up in dialogue. Duncan Whomst?

The identify type of works, although, when you see Duncan in motion on movie. Regardless of being an professional sword grasp and the correct hand to a duke, he’s additionally a heat, welcoming presence. Whereas many different individuals in Paul Atreides’ life are distant or demanding, Duncan Idaho is a superb man. He hugs Paul, calls him ‘my boy,’ and is a fairly nice presence in his life. Perhaps the identify helps set up that early on. In any case, there’s a well-known cadence to it.

There’s a complete lot to absorb all through the course of Dune, however Duncan serves as type of a touchstone all through the movie. He’s a bro, and in a sea of excessive idea sci-fi terminology, we might all use a pal like Mr. Idaho. He’s a sword grasp and a badass, however a loyal pal. He’s a supply of consolation to Paul because the motion ramps up and the political intrigue turns lethal.

It’s robust to place a finger on why, precisely, Duncan Idaho is so humorous. Is it the distinction to the opposite names and phrases within the movie? Does the phrase Idaho simply have an inherently humorous ring to it? Who can really say? All I do know is, I’m right here for the Duncan Idaho memes as they proceed to return out on the timeline.