In an artistic display of improvisation, Austin Butler, as Feyd in “Dune: Part Two,” channels a sinister mimicry of his character’s uncle, possibly hinting at an incestuous admiration for the Baron’s grasp on power— a nuance improvised by Butler himself. Balancing a voice and demeanor reminiscent of Stellan Skarsgård’s portrayal, this improvisation added depth and a disturbing undertone to the on-screen dynamic between Feyd and Baron Harkonnen.
During a revealing interview with Emily Orozco from Access Hollywood, Butler discussed an impromptu scene where he plants a kiss on Skarsgård’s lips. His casual response confirmed the improvisation, as he praised his co-star’s openness: “[The kiss] with Stellan Skarsgård? Oh yeah! He’s game for anything. He’s the best.” Such adaptability from Skarsgård, given his extensive experience in avant-garde films, suggests his comfort with unexpected scene developments, evidenced by his reciprocal response in the moment.
Questioned about his inclination to surprise fellow actors, Butler explained his viewpoint as a performer focused on influencing his co-stars. The suggestion wasn’t to shock for shock’s sake, but an authentic exploration of Feyd’s persona through improvisation. Cognizant of Skarsgård’s seasoned background, Butler’s choice to improvise was not about unsettling his co-star, but truly embodying Feyd’s unpredictable nature.
Looking ahead, the legacy of Feyd and Baron Harkonnen may extend beyond “Dune: Part Two,” as Herbert’s “Children of Dune” hints at a possible resurgence of the Baron through his granddaughter’s consciousness, signaling potential future appearances within the cinematic Dune universe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Was the kissing scene between Feyd and Baron Harkonnen scripted in “Dune: Part Two”?
- No, Austin Butler confirmed that the kissing scene was improvised.
- How did Stellan Skarsgård react to the improvised kiss?
- Stellan Skarsgård was receptive and reciprocated, indicating his willingness to go along with the improvisation.
- Does Baron Harkonnen appear in the sequels to “Dune” by Frank Herbert?
- In Frank Herbert’s “Children of Dune,” it is suggested that the consciousness of Baron Harkonnen persists through his granddaughter, which could mean his character might make a reappearance.
- Was Austin Butler aiming to provoke Stellan Skarsgård with the improvised kiss?
- No, Butler’s intention was not to provoke, but to deepen his embodiment of Feyd’s character and impact his co-star in a way that was true to the story.
Conclusion
Austin Butler’s commitment to exploring the nuances of Feyd’s character in “Dune: Part Two” through improvisation has led to the emergence of eerier and more complex moments in the film. His spontaneous decision to kiss Stellan Skarsgård’s character, Baron Harkonnen, is an example of Butler’s dedication to his craft and his ability to navigate and enhance the emotional landscape of a scene. While the future storylines of “Dune” remain faithful to Herbert’s literature, the improvisational freedom given to actors like Butler adds a layer of unpredictability and depth to the movie-watching experience—a testament to the collaborative spirit of the film’s cast and crew.