‘Dune: Part Two’ Promises More Action and More Zendaya!

by Annika November 20, 2023

The saga of “Dune: Part Two” is shaping up to be a cinematic event of epic proportions, with director Denis Villeneuve at the helm once again. The sequel, moved up two weeks to March 1st, 2024, after a slight push from its original November 2023 date, promises a grander scale and richer narrative than its predecessor. Unlike the first installment, simultaneously released in cinemas and on HBO Max, this sequel will enjoy an exclusive theatrical release worldwide, emphasizing its cinematic grandeur.

“Dune: Part Two” marks the continuation of Paul Atreides’ journey, as played by Timothée Chalamet, who transitions from a student to a formidable leader. The film will delve deeper into Arrakis’s dense and intricate politics and the universe, with Paul uniting with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen to wage a war against House Harkonnen. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the control of spice, the psychedelic mineral exclusive to Arrakis, weaving in themes of environmentalism and exploitation. Villeneuve describes the sequel as an “epic war movie,” promising more action than the first film’s contemplative nature.

The cast sees the return of most characters from the first part, along with new additions like Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha, Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan, and Christopher Walken as Emperor Shaddam IV. Villeneuve’s choice of Butler for Feyd-Rautha, envisioned as an “Olympic sword master mixed with a psychotic serial killer,” suggests a significant escalation in the conflict. Zendaya’s character, Chani, is also set for a more substantial role, moving beyond her brief appearance in the first film to become a central figure in the unfolding drama.

Filming for “Dune: Part Two” took place in various locations, including Budapest, Abu Dhabi, and Italy, from July to December 2022. The film was entirely shot using digital IMAX-certified cameras, signifying Villeneuve’s commitment to delivering a visually stunning experience. The romantic scenes between Paul and Chani were particularly focused on, filmed during the golden hour in remote locations in Jordan to capture the essence of their evolving relationship.

Hans Zimmer returns to compose the film’s score, having previously composed over 90 minutes of music even before the sequel’s announcement, to inspire Villeneuve during the writing process. This collaboration indicates a continuation of the immersive and atmospheric musical landscape that characterized the first film.

“Dune: Part Two” is far more than a sequel; it’s a testament to Villeneuve’s vision of expanding the Dune universe. While it concludes the narrative of the first novel, Villeneuve envisions at least three movies, with potential plans to adapt “Dune Messiah” if the sequel succeeds at the box office. A spin-off TV series, “Dune: Prophecy,” formerly known as “Dune: The Sisterhood,” is in development for HBO Max, hinting at the broader exploration of the Dune universe. We’ll take more Dune all day long so keep ’em coming!