While we wait for Dune 2, director Denis Villeneuve reveals his plans for the movies and why his story will be shorter than the books.
Denis Villeneuve, the director of the Dune films, has revealed his future plans for the film series based on Frank Herbert's novels. Although Warner Bros. has not yet officially greenlit Dune 3, Villeneuve has a clear vision of how he wants to conclude his films.
In an interview with Time Magazine, he shared his thoughts and explained why his adaptations will not cover all six books in the series.
Dune 3 Set To Be The Finale Of The Dune Movies
Dune follows the story of young Paul Atreides, whose family is entrusted with the stewardship of the desert planet Arrakis. This planet is the sole source of 'melange' (or 'spice'), a substance that extends life and enhances mental abilities.
After a betrayal by a rival house leads to the murder of his father, Paul and his mother ally themselves with the native Fremen of the planet. The first movie ends here, and Dune 2 will pick up Paul's story.
Part Two is scheduled for release on March 1 of this year.
The Fremen see Paul as the prophesied Messiah. Without spoiling the second or third movies, it's clear that as Messiah, he will seize control of Arrakis and its precious spice, reshaping the political and social order of the universe.
Dune 'Messiah' Will Be The Last Movie For Villeneuve
Paul's transformation into the Fremen Messiah is a key element that Villeneuve intends to portray on the big screen. Paul is revered as the Mahdi, a role intertwined with his Bene Gesserit training and unique genetic heritage.
His ability to foresee potential futures, enhanced by exposure to the spice, further solidifies his status among the Fremen. Villeneuve plans a trilogy, aiming for a series that is powerful yet concise, avoiding the pitfalls of overextension.
"Dune Messiah should be the last Dune movie for me" – Director Denis Villeneuve
While Part Three is "being written right now," he notes that "it will take a little time" before the sequel to Parts One and Two is ready. What we don't want to see is a change of directors and then someone else taking the story in a different direction than Villeneuve (looking at you, Star Wars sequels).
Regardless of the wait, the anticipation is high, and we encourage you to read the books , especially if Dune 2 is as successful as Part One.