Dune: What Makes The Characters’ Eyes Striking Blue And Why Is The Substance So Important? Explained

In the fictional universe of Dune, numerous characters possess blue eyes. The cause of this eye color is linked to the consumption of a unique substance named “spice.” Exclusively found on the desert planet Arrakis, this spice imparts a striking blue hue to the eyes when ingested. As shared by Leo Wiggins from the Gom Jabbar podcast, this distinctive blue eye look is colloquially referred to as the “eyes of Ibad.” It’s widespread among the Fremen people due to their regular spice consumption.

In this movie, spice plays a crucial role with the ability to extend life and enable space exploration. Valued greatly and essential to the plot, the House Atreides is tasked with managing its harvest on Arrakis. Consuming more spice results in bluer eyes for individuals, a trait widespread among the Fremen people of Arrakis, who view it as normal.

The Fremen people consider having blue eyes as a part of their cultural identity since blue eyes are common among them. Blue eyes are not something they feel the need to conceal, as they view it as an ordinary feature of their existence.

In the captivating universe of Dune, I, as an ardent follower, can’t help but be in awe of the pivotal role spice plays. Known alternatively as melange, this elusive substance underpins the intricacies of the galactic economy. The ruling House on Arrakis holds the reins to its production, an endeavor rooted in the unique sandworms that inhabit this enigmatic planet.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d describe it this way: Every time these colossal beings relieve themselves in their nests, water gets mixed in. With sun exposure, the resulting mixture undergoes an intriguing transformation into spice over an extended period. Interestingly, there’s a step called mining involved in this process. Harvesters carefully gather the spice from the sand, preparing it for further refinement into the fine, usable powder we all know and love.

Spice holds significant power as it heightens senses and grants some the ability to predict upcoming occurrences. Valued deeply, its possession is not within reach for all. The Fremen, inhabitants of Arrakis, are immersed in spice’s presence and utilize it extensively in their daily life, from their attire to their nourishment. Similarly, the Bene Gesserit sisterhood harnesses this substance to amplify their psychic abilities and educate new recruits.

In the novel Dune, the blue eyes of the Fremen people signify more than a simple physical trait. They symbolize their strong bond with Arrakis and their ability to thrive in its severe environment. This detail adds authenticity and uniqueness to the world of Dune, much like how the Matrix Code or lightsabers instantly evoke the distinct universes of their franchises.

In the world of Dune, the characters’ blue eyes serve a deeper purpose than merely being an eye-catching detail. For Denis Villeneuve’s film adaptation, great care was taken in utilizing sophisticated visual effects to portray the blue eyes authentically and powerfully on screen, adhering closely to the source material’s descriptions.

Dune series is available to stream on Max in the U.S.