Leto Atreides is the Duke of House Atreides and ruler of Caladan and then Arrakis. A commanding character in Frank Herbert’s novel Dune, Duke Leto Atreides has a prominent role in Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming movie adaptation. Those who serve House Atreides know Leto to be a strong, compassionate leader. And Oscar Isaac portrays the fair and just noble in the next Dune film. The Padishah Emperor orders Leto to leave Caladan after nearly two decades to take over Arrakis, and as the first trailer for the movie shows, it’s a fateful move for the Atreides. Tragedy awaits. But regardless of what will happen, Oscar Isaac’s beard cannot be stopped.
And thank goodness for that.
Warner Bros./Legendary
Isaac’s facial hair in Dune supports Leto’s imposing countenance. The book describes the Duke as having the look of a hawk, which is also part of House Atreides’ symbol. And while I don’t know if a beard screams “hawk” it certainly makes for an intimidating, brooding appearance. So I just want to appreciate Isaac’s salt and pepper beard in Dune in all its glory.
Warner Bros./Legendary
As befitting for a Duke, Isaac’s beard is tidy and without the tiniest bit of scraggle. Leto’s has a clean, sharp, and manicured look. He clearly possesses grooming talents. Maybe he does it himself or House Atreides has stylists on staff. Perhaps Lady Jessica, the Bene Gesserit who is Duke Leto’s concubine, offers advice. Emphasis on perhaps. I know she has better things to do.
Warner Bros./Legendary
The cut of Leto’s beard matches his longer locks. It’s all about presenting an image. And I want to thank the actual folks responsible for this: the stylists and groomers who worked behind the scenes on Dune. They combed and shaped Isaac’s facial hair beautifully to emphasize Leto’s role as a leader. In a group shot with some of the Atreides household, only Leto and Gurney Halleck sport beards. Gurney’s the Warmaster for House Atreides, but his beard isn’t as sharp or impressive as Leto’s. Just saying.
Warner Bros./Legendary
Just look at the above gif! Not a single hair in his beard flutters in the wind. It’s majestic.
Warner Bros./Legendary
Warner Bros./Legendary
We can’t wait to see more of Oscar Isaac’s Leto beard in the movie. Dune will arrive in theaters on December 18, 2020. Be sure to check out all our Dune content from explainers, to glossaries, to character breakdowns.
Featured Image: Warner Bros./Legendary
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Amy Ratcliffe is the Managing Editor for Nerdist and the author of The Jedi Mind, available for pre-order now. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.