Giant sandworms may not be returning to theaters just yet, but they’re on the way: Dune: Part Two is coming. Deadline reports that the sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s visionary adaptation of the 1965 science fiction novel by Frank Herbert has officially begun production.
In addition to returning cast members like Timothée Chalamet (Paul Atreides), Rebecca Ferguson (Lady Jessica Atreides), Zendaya (Chani), Javier Bardem (Stilgar), and Dave Bautista (Glossu Rabban), Dune: Part Two continues the first movie’s trend of drafting enormous stars by adding Florence Pugh (Princess Irulan), Austin Butler (Feyd Rautha), and Christopher Walken (Emperor Shaddam IV) to its roster.
Based on a screenplay by director Denis Villeneuve and John Spaihts, Dune: Part Two is expected to film in Budapest, Abu Dhabi, Jordan, and Italy. Part of the first movie was filmed in Abu Dhabi as well; Part Two will continue to make use of the country’s generous tax breaks for film productions as well as its sweeping landscapes. “Dune has again provided us with an exciting opportunity to associate the emirate with another global movie franchise,” said Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism.
Dune: Part Two delayed slightly
Dune: Part Two was originally slated to release on October 20, 2023 but has been delayed to November 17, 2023. This puts the Warner Media tentpole sci-fi flick in theaters on the very same day that Lionsgate’s Hunger Games prequel movie The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes releases. It’s going to be a sci-fi extravaganza at the movies next Thanksgiving.
We’ll be on the lookout for any updates from the Dune: Part Two set over the coming months. In the meantime, Dune: Part One is now available to stream on HBO Max.
To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and sign up for our exclusive newsletter.
Get HBO, Starz, Showtime and MORE for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels