To be frank (haha no pun intended), I think I would have been utterly lost by the plot if I didn't have a friend who is a fan of the series explain to me what was going on. It seems a lot of sci-fi novels are like that, with the strange planets and cultures, slew of characters, backstories and subplots, it can all be pretty confusing. If you're new to the genre, I recommend reading a guide along with the book so you might not feel as frustrated. 
 But anyway, getting through that, Dune is well worth the read. My favorite aspect of the novel is the sheer complexity of the characters. They all feel so fleshed out. I especially love Lady Jessica and Paul, although my favorite character has to be Paul's sister Alia. She is marvelous! 
 I still haven't seen the movie, but I can't see how it can possibly be as good as the book. Dune is so incredible I could see myself reading it again and again, if not attempting the whole series.