Will Denis Villeneuve Get To Make A Dune Sequel?

For many, this may seem like a stupid question to ask before Dune’s even released, but with acclaimed director, Denis Villeneuve now doing a press tour after its Venice Premiere, he’s talking about the possibility of a Dune sequel.

Based on the Frank Herbert novel of the same name, the film first saw an adaption in 1984 which was a box office failure and was hampered by studio interference.

However, it has since gained a cult following.

The film, which received a reported “8-minute standing ovation” at the festival is due to release in October has already been described as “part one”, with part two the sequel.

Dune has cost almost $150-160 million to make so seemingly the film would need to make anywhere close to double that to be classed as a studio success.

Dune’s upcoming HBO Max and Cinematic Release

Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

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The film (despite pressures from Villeneuve) will release in the US on October 22^nd with a simultaneous release on HBO Max as well as theatres.

Which you have to take into account what effect that may have on the box office, particularly those who may be on the fence about buying a cinema ticket for it.

Warner Bros. Pictures has refused to comment so far on if a ‘part two’ will occur, but Villeneuve has stated himself he could quickly get into production on the next instalment.

He recently told CinemaBlend the following:

I would say ready to shoot in 2022 for sure.

So, whilst Villeneuve is ready to go on a part two, it seems telling so far that Warner Bros. hasn’t placed anything into their schedules or release schedules for a sequel.

If the film was expected to be a two-parter, you’d anticipate the studio would have surely prepared for this in confidence?

Would Zendaya Be A Lead In Dune’s Sequel?

Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

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Early reviews are all in favour of the film’s sequel, praising the visual aspect and film overall, but perhaps one drawback we shall see in October is the role of Zendaya.

In a lot of the press, marketing for the release we’ve seen a heavy focus on Zendaya (who we will also see in perhaps the biggest film of the year in December, Spider-Man: No Way Home).

Yet the actress was only on set for a reported four days and would actually have a much bigger role in a potential sequel.

But for those fans drawn to the movie for Zendaya they may be disappointed.

However, Villeneuve is an acclaimed director for good reason, his films from Arrival, Prisoners, Sicario were well received by critics and audiences alike.

Yet if it goes the same way as Blade Runner 2049, which whilst well praised by critics, underperformed drastically at the box office, we won’t be seeing a sequel any time soon.

Will you be watching Dune at the cinema?

Are you a fan of the novel? Do you think it will do well?

We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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