This is high praise coming from the director behind classics like E.T. and Close Encounters. Spielberg went a step further, placing Villeneuve among the ranks of cinematic ‘world-builders’ like Stanley Kubrick, George Lucas, and Federico Fellini.
Villeneuve’s masterful world-building resonated deeply with Spielberg, who particularly admired the scene featuring Paul Atreides’ sandworm ride. Spielberg noted the film’s ability to evoke a sense of yearning for water amidst the vast desert landscapes. He likened the sandworms to “sea serpents” and called the sandworm surfing scene “one of the greatest things I have ever seen.”
The creation of this scene was no easy feat. As reported by Variety, filming took a staggering 44 days, with a massive 90-foot-long sandworm set piece. Cinematographer Greig Fraser emphasised the importance of maintaining audience immersion and ensuring the fantastical elements felt believable.
Dune: Part Two has been a box office success, with domestic earnings nearing £190 million and a global total surpassing £451 million. The film continues to play in theatres, solidifying Villeneuve’s reputation as a master of science fiction filmmaking.
Dune: Part Two, a grand science fiction epic, hits theatres in 2024. Director Denis Villeneuve returns at the helm, co-writing the screenplay alongside Jon Spaihts. This film serves as the thrilling sequel to the 2021 adaptation of Frank Herbert’s legendary 1965 novel, Dune.
The story picks up where the first film left off, following Paul Atreides as he joins forces with the Fremen, the indigenous people of the harsh desert planet Arrakis. Together, they prepare for a fierce war against the cruel House Harkonnen.
Many familiar faces return for this epic adventure, including Timothée Chalamet as Paul, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Dave Bautista, Stellan Skarsgård, Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem. New additions to the cast include Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Christopher Walken, Léa Seydoux, and Souheila Yacoub, all bringing their talents to this expanding universe.
