In a recent interview with Time, director Denis Villeneuve confirmed that his adaptation of Frank Herbert’s science fiction series, ‘Dune,’ will comprise just three films.
Despite the source material spanning six novels, each with its own lore, Villeneuve decided to limit his cinematic exploration to three films. In the interview, the director confirmed:
“‘Dune Messiah’ should be the last ‘Dune’ movie for me.”
So, based on the second book in Herbert’s series, ‘Dune Messiah’ would likely mark the end of Villeneuve’s ‘Dune’ journey. Besides, according to Villeneuve, film adaptations involve both destruction and creation:
“When you adapt, you kill. You destroy in the process of transformation. Going from the words to the image, this adaptation is my adaptation, with my sensibility.”
Is ‘Dune: Part 2’ Confirmed?
‘Dune’ (2021) was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing around $400 million worldwide. The film’s success was crucial in securing a sequel, ‘Dune: Part Two,’ which continues the tale of Paul Atreides and his alliance with the Fremen in their struggle against House Harkonnen.
Reportedly, ‘Dune: Part Two’ is set to release on March 1, 2024. Just like he did with the first movie, Villeneuve says a third movie based on ‘Dune Messiah’ will be dependent on ‘Dune: Part Two’s success.
In addition to the main film series, the ‘Dune’ universe is set to expand through ‘Dune: Prophecy,’ a television series focusing on the origins of the Bene Gesserit. However, this prequel is scheduled to premiere in late 2024. Meanwhile, Villeneuve explores other projects, including potential adaptations of ‘Cleopatra‘ and ‘Rendezvous With Rama.’
