Dune director Denis Villeneuve has given an update to the progress of Dune Part Two with the scripts completion.
In an interview with Collider Villeneuve was asked about the progress of the sequel, which will adapt the remainder of Frank Herbert’s groundbreaking and classic sci-fi novel which launched a sprawling franchise.
Dune Part Two will continue to follow Paul Atreides, as played by Timothee Chalamet, as he attempts to unite the Fremont and free Arrakis from the grips of the Emperor and Baron Harokonnen, the people who betrayed and destroyed his family.
“The screenplay is finished mostly, but it’s always a work in progress,” Villeneuve said. “It’ll be a work in progress until final cut, but I will say it’s solidified. I have a script in my hands. We are in prep right now… My crew, we are in full prep for the movie.”
He also teased Dune Part Two will make use of potentially more IMAX cameras and footage for the anticipated film. “Definitely. [Cinematographer] Greig Fraser and I, we fell in love with this format, and definitely there will be — even probably more — IMAX footage in this movie. Definitely.”
Villeneuve’s comments come after recent reports Florence Pugh (Black Widow) and Austin Butler (Elvis) will potentially join the cast as Princess Irulan and Feyd-Rautha respectively.
A mythic and emotionally charged hero’s journey, “Dune” tells the story of Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, who must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet’s exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence—a commodity capable of unlocking humanity’s greatest potential—only those who can conquer their fear will survive.
Dune is directed by Denis Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049) and sees Timothee Chalamet (Call Me By Your Name) leading the cast alongside Rebecca Ferguson (Mission: Impossible – Fallout), Oscar Isaac (Star Wars: The Last Jedi), Dave Bautista (Avengers: Infinity War), Stellan Skarsgard (Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again), Charlotte Rampling (Red Sparrow), Zendaya (Spider-Man: Far From Home), Javier Bardem (Loving Pablo), Jason Momoa (Aquaman), Josh Brolin (Avengers: Endgame), Stephen McKinley Henderson (Fences), Sharon Duncan-Brewster (Sex Education), and Chang Chen (The Assassin).
Dune Part Two will be released October 20th, 2023.
Ricky Church – Follow me on Twitter for more movie news and nerd talk.
Originally published March 16, 2022. Updated March 17, 2022.
