“Dune: Messiah” Officially in Development as Denis Villeneuve Expands his Sci-fi Universe

Following the critical and commercial success of “Dune: Part Two”, acclaimed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve has officially embarked on the development of “Dune: Messiah,” the third installment in his adaptation of the 1969 Frank Herbert sci-fi fantasy of the same name.

Production will reportedly begin this summer, and though there has been no word of the official cast members, it is expected that Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya will reprise their roles as Paul Atreides and Chani respectively.

“Dune: Messiah” is set 12 years after the events of “Dune: Part Two.” The story delves into the complexities of Atreides’ reign as emperor and the unintended consequences of the jihad fought in his name.

“Dune: Part Two” defied critics’ expectations, debuting at 92% on Rotten Tomatoes and earning 714.6 million at the worldwide box office. It is the sixth highest-grossing film of 2024 and the recipient of five Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Whether or not it will win any or all of its nominations will be determined on Mar. 2, 2025, at the 97th Academy Awards.

As the Dune universe progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how Villeneuve will navigate the intricate themes of power, prophecy, and destiny that define Herbert’s work.