The end for Paul Atreides: what is known about the filming of Dune: Part Three

The adaptation of Frank Herbert's cult novel captivated the audience with its scale, visual effects and deep meaning. Denis Villeneuve has created a true cinematic masterpiece: the desert landscapes of the planet Arrakis and spaceships are striking in their detail and scale.

Dune: Part Two became a box office hit in 2024 and grossed over $700 million at the box office. The director said that work on Dune 3 has already begun, but it will be the last adaptation in the franchise.

In a comment to Deadline, Villeneuve said that he is actively working on the script. The last part of the story "will complete the arch of Paul Atrid". When the director was asked about the possible start date for Dune: The Messiah, he suggested that it would be in 2026, although he clarified that "these films take a long time to make".

"The events take place 12 years after we left the characters in the second part. Their journey, their story is different this time, and that's why I always say that although it's the same world, it's a new movie with new circumstances," commented Villeneuve.

The director added that he is taking his time because he wants to make sure that he creates convincing adaptations that are true to the source material.

The completion of Dune: Part II made some powerful changes compared to the original novel, especially when it comes to Chani (Zendaya). These changes worked well in the movie, but now Villeneuve must make sure they are relevant in his adaptation of The Messiah. Between these changes, a 12-year time jump, Villeneuve is realizing how different Dune 3 will be from his previous films.

Denis Villeneuve has expressed a low probability that he will return to the franchise after Dune 3, but he wants to create a space for future directors to create. He has formulated his own vision of the Dune world, but he seems to be comfortable with the idea of letting others continue the story.

"I think it would be a good idea for me to make sure that there are germs of new projects in Messiah, if someone wants to continue the stories later. These are great books, but they are harder to adapt. Books are becoming more and more esoteric... I'm not closing the door," Vilnyov emphasized.

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