The Fremen are portrayed by a diverse ensemble rather than strictly adhering to the book's Middle Eastern influences, drawing some criticism from both sides for under- or over-representation. However, these changes are incidental, with Liet-Kynes dying early and not driving the narrative.

Themes remain faithful to Frank Herbert's original anti-colonialism, ecological warnings, and messianic critique, without adding contemporary social justice lectures, identity politics, or critiques of traditional norms as central conflicts. Denis Villeneuve emphasizes the story's essence over activism, and despite pre-release YouTube complaints about 'woke' swaps, the films achieved massive critical and commercial success with broad appeal, praised even by conservatives for avoiding heavy-handed messaging. The progressive touches feel organic to a modern blockbuster and do not compromise the epic sci-fi focus on destiny, survival, and interstellar politics.