How figure skaters perform to the soundtrack of "Dune."

The European Figure Skating Championships have commenced in Tallinn. Expect plenty of excitement, joy, and some disappointments. And of course, a lot of music. This is the topic we will discuss while the competition winners are still being determined.

This season, the music accompanying not only European but also global competitions is dominated by the soundtrack from Denis Villeneuve's film "Dune." Hans Zimmer's haunting melodies have even pushed the timeless classics "Carmen" and "Moulin Rouge" off the ice rinks. Not that masterpieces by Bizet and The Police (athletes particularly favor "Roxanne") have completely vanished from the ice arenas; they remain a steady presence.

However, "Dune" is so popular in the 2024/25 season that we even decided to create our own European podium ahead of the competitions. The programs in various figure skating disciplines seem to contradict the American Academy's decision not to nominate Zimmer for an Oscar, as they believe the music for the second part is too similar to that of the first. Skaters have been able to recognize its potential for variability. So, here are our "medalists."

The gold undoubtedly goes to the two-time European champion Adam Xiao Him Fa from France. His free program set to "Dune" has already earned him medals at Grand Prix events and secured his place in the finals. Unfortunately, we did not see him there due to an injury. One hopes that the program, filled with complex elements and virtuosic choreography, will bring him another victory at the European Championship. It’s no surprise that Adam entrusted the choreography to the renowned choreographer Benoît Richaud.

The combination of intriguing choreographic choices and highly technical elements has been Adam's secret to success. We will see if he can defend his title.

The silver medal is confidently claimed by the Spanish dancers Olivia Smart and Tom Dick. After Olivia's partner Andreas Díaz retired in 2022, she essentially had to start anew with a new partner. The beginning wasn't particularly successful, but this season, their "Dune" promises a return of the Spanish duo to the top. Original lifts, unique costumes, and intricate, expressive choreography—this is all about the Spaniards' "Dune." Their performance is undoubtedly the most cinematic.

Olivia's costume features an interesting design. The dress, of course, is in sandy tones, but its collar transitions into a shawl secured on her head. This is designed as an integral part of the dress, allowing her to avoid penalties from the judges for performing in a headpiece, which is prohibited by the rules.

The bronze goes to the local favorite, Estonia's representative Nina Petrokinii. The skater admitted that the film left a significant impression on her. "This music allows for playing with imagery and gives the audience the chance to see a story on the ice," the skater commented. Couldn’t have said it better.