This year’s Dune: Part Two served as a worthy continuation of Denis Villeneuve’s take on Frank Herbert’s Dune universe. Aside from garnering an overly positive critical response, the sequel also managed to rake in over $714 million at the worldwide box office, as per Box Office Mojo. As such, fans are eagerly gunning for a third installment in the fan-favorite franchise. In a recent discussion, Denis Villeneuve shed some light on the possible release date of Dune 3 while divulging several thematic details about the movie’s plot.
Denis Villeneuve reveals what to expect in Dune 3 and hints at 2026 release date for Messiah
The Prisoners director revealed that he is cutting his post-Dune 2 break short to kickstart development on the third film.
Denis Villeneuve provided insight into his thought process behind filming Dune 3 during a recent conversation with Deadline. He stated that he is currently penning the script for Dune: Messiah, which would effectively ‘finish the Paul Atreides arc.’ The three-time Academy Award nominee then proceeded to share some information regarding the background of his much-awaited finale to the ongoing Dune franchise.
“The story takes place like 12 years after where we left the characters at the end of Part Two. Their journey, their story is different this time,” Denis Villeneuve explained while talking about the plot details of Dune 3. “That’s why I always say that while it’s the same world, it’s a new film with new circumstances.”
The acclaimed director went a step further and also expressed the importance of Paul Atreides and Chani’s relationship to Dune: Messiah. Villeneuve disclosed how the changing political dynamics of the world would impact the pair’s connection, ultimately forcing Timothée Chalamet’s Atreides to ‘betray the love of his life.’
While he remained coy about the filming schedule for Dune 3, Denis Villeneuve was heard murmuring ‘2026’ in response. However, he quickly corrected himself before replying with a strategically vague answer. On the second attempt, the creative genius simply stated, “I would go back behind the camera faster than I think.”
Despite Villeneuve’s hesitation to reveal any specific details, Warner Bros. has confirmed that his next film will be coming out on December 18, 2026. Nonetheless, the WB executives have yet to announce the title of the said film. While there are speculations that this project could be Dune: Messiah, there are no official updates regarding the title as of now.
