It's been many years since I read the book now, or have seen the film, it's a little hard to critique at this late date, but here's what I remember.
I felt the film failed miserably at capturing the mystical, metaphysical aspect of the book that made it so appealing to me. Missing was the essence of the spice "experience" and Paul's self-conciousness. What they tried to convey of that was poorly written and directed. This was my major complaint.
I remember hearing later that Lynch hadn't read the book, and this was why he missed the real point of it all. I believe he said it was his biggest mistake, not taking the time to read it first.
Then, some of the special effects were pretty bad, like the matte shots (riding the worms! lol). I did see it again well after it's release and disliked it even more, but that was at least 12 years ago. Time to make myself sit through it one more time, I guess. It's been so long now since reading the book that I would be able to experience it on it's own terms.
Please, please don't hate me too much.
![Wink :wink:](./images/smilies/icon_wink.gif)