Director Denis Villeneuve, the visionary behind Dune (2021) and the highly anticipated Dune: Part Two, is already making waves with his plans for Dune 3. The acclaimed filmmaker has made it clear that while he’s excited to continue exploring Frank Herbert’s expansive universe, he doesn’t want to label the project as part of a traditional trilogy. Instead, Villeneuve insists that his approach to the Dune saga is more akin to unfolding chapters in an epic narrative, each with its own distinct identity.
This announcement comes as fans eagerly await the release of Dune: Part Two, which will delve deeper into the story of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) and the desert planet of Arrakis. With its stunning visuals, complex political intrigue, and philosophical depth, Villeneuve’s Dune has captivated audiences and critics alike. Now, with the possibility of a third film on the horizon, the director is ready to expand the story even further while distancing himself from the standard three-part structure often seen in Hollywood franchises.
A Universe Too Big for Just Three Films
Villeneuve’s adaptation of Dune has always been a passion project for the director, who has long been vocal about his love for Frank Herbert’s seminal sci-fi novel. The first film, released in 2021, covered roughly the first half of the book, while Dune: Part Two, set for release in 2024, will conclude the core storyline of Herbert’s original Dune. However, Villeneuve has made it clear that the story doesn’t end there.
Speaking in a recent interview, Villeneuve explained his reasoning behind the potential Dune 3, which would likely adapt Dune Messiah, the second novel in Herbert’s six-book series. “Frank Herbert wrote six novels, but the first two — Dune and Dune Messiah — form a more cohesive narrative arc,” Villeneuve said. “The third movie would not be a sequel in the traditional sense. It’s a continuation of the story but with a very different tone and focus.”
Villeneuve went on to clarify that he doesn’t view Dune 3 as part of a typical trilogy structure. “To call it a trilogy would be misleading. It’s not about creating a series of films that follow a formula. The universe of Dune is vast, and each story brings something new and unique. Dune Messiah is much more introspective and deals with the consequences of power and prophecy in a way that is very different from the first two films.”
The Shift in Tone for Dune Messiah
The shift Villeneuve is referring to is a major reason why he’s hesitant to call the three films a trilogy. Dune Messiah is a much smaller, more intimate story compared to the sweeping epic of Dune. Set 12 years after the events of Dune, the novel follows Paul Atreides as he grapples with the immense consequences of the jihad waged in his name across the universe. It’s a dark and philosophical exploration of the burdens of power, leadership, and religious fanaticism—far removed from the rise of a messianic hero that fans witness in the first book.
Villeneuve is intrigued by the character study at the heart of Dune Messiah, which he feels is a necessary continuation of Paul’s journey. “Dune Messiah is the perfect epilogue to Dune. It’s not about victory or triumph; it’s about the personal cost of fulfilling a prophecy and the disillusionment that comes with it. Paul’s story doesn’t end on a heroic note—it becomes something much more tragic and reflective. That’s a story I’m eager to tell.”
Expanding the Dune Universe
While Villeneuve is clearly focused on the first three books of Herbert’s saga, he hasn’t ruled out exploring other stories within the Dune universe. Herbert’s Dune series spans six novels, with Paul Atreides’ descendants taking center stage in later books like Children of Dune and God Emperor of Dune. There’s also the Dune prequel series, co-written by Frank Herbert’s son, Brian Herbert, and Kevin J. Anderson, which delves into the history of the Bene Gesserit, the Harkonnens, and the rise of the empire.
Villeneuve acknowledged the richness of Herbert’s universe but maintained that he’s taking things one film at a time. “The Dune universe is incredibly vast, and there are so many fascinating stories that could be told. For now, though, my focus is on completing Paul’s journey through Dune and Dune Messiah. After that, we’ll see.”
Dune: Part Two and the Road Ahead
As fans wait for Dune: Part Two to hit theaters, excitement around Villeneuve’s grand vision for the series is growing. Part Two is expected to dive into the political and spiritual transformation of Paul Atreides as he leads the Fremen in their fight against the Harkonnens and the Emperor. The film will also introduce pivotal characters like Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh) and the villainous Feyd-Rautha (Austin Butler), promising even more epic confrontations and intricate plotting.
Villeneuve has promised that Part Two will deliver a more action-packed and emotionally resonant experience compared to the first installment, as Paul fully embraces his role as the prophesied Kwisatz Haderach. But for Villeneuve, the real heart of Paul’s story lies in what comes after his rise to power, which is why he’s so eager to tackle Dune Messiah.
“Dune: Part Two is the culmination of Paul’s ascension,” Villeneuve said. “But the real intrigue comes with what happens next. What happens when the man who has become a god realizes the cost of what he’s achieved? That’s where Dune Messiah takes us, and it’s a journey I find incredibly compelling.”
The Future of the Dune Franchise
While Villeneuve is focused on completing the first three films, his refusal to call it a trilogy signals that he sees the Dune universe as something far greater than a contained three-act structure. With Dune Messiah, Villeneuve is set to explore darker, more introspective themes that challenge the heroic narrative of the first two films. And for fans of the sprawling Dune saga, that’s an exciting prospect.
Whether Villeneuve continues with the rest of the series or moves on to other projects after Dune Messiah, it’s clear that his passion for Frank Herbert’s universe remains strong. As Dune: Part Two gears up for release, the director’s grand vision continues to expand, promising fans an unforgettable cinematic journey through the sands of Arrakis and beyond.