Miranda Parkinson
Spoilers ahead!
After keeping us all on tenterhooks, it’s finally been confirmed that Dune Part Two is on its way. Currently stated for release on 20th October 2023, this is great news for anyone who wants to see more sandy, spice-filled shenanigans – namely Paul trying to wrestle back control of Arrakis and get revenge on the Harkonnens.
While splitting Frank Herbert’s hefty novel in half gave director Denis Villeneuve the chance to dig deep into the story and build an expansive world, it also meant that a sequel wasn’t guaranteed. With every previous movie adaption of Dune bombing at the box office, you’d forgive us for being a little bit worried.
With Warner Bros giving the green light, here’s everything we deserve to see in Dune Part Two, from major players to gripping fight scenes.
A Lot More Chani
With Zendaya splashed across multiple trailers, narrating the film and being a huge presence on the press tour, a lot of people felt cheated that she wasn’t actually…in the film that much. If you add it up, she’s only on screen for about seven minutes (granted, it’s a mesmerising seven minutes).
Luckily, Part Two is guaranteed to contain a lot more Chani, as well as a deeper look at the Fremen and their culture. Oh, and there’s that little thing like Paul (Timothée Chalamet) and Chani’s love story finally upgrading from dreams to reality.
People Riding Sandworms
Look. Would I want to ride a sandworm? Absolutely not. But do I want to see Timothée Chalamet grapple with one and ride it into battle while wearing some sort of dramatic, flowing cloak? Absolutely.
Alia Atreides Being Mildly Terrifying
Thanks to Paul’s spidey senses (prophetic visions), he knew about his mother’s pregnancy without being told. In Part Two, we’ll be meeting Alia Atreides in the flesh and, like Paul, she’s no normal child. Expect alarming behaviour from a small girl, that’s all I’m going to say.
Princess Irulan and Feyd-Rautha
Two more characters who will pack a punch are Princess Irulan and Feyd-Rautha.
The Emperor’s oldest daughter and heir, Irulan only shows up towards the end of the book, although her presence is felt throughout – each chapter begins with quotes and excerpts from her work. Sharp, regal and cunning, she has a big part to play in Paul’s future.
Meanwhile, Feyd-Rautha is the twisted, sadistic nephew of Baron Vladimir Harkonnen. You know, the guy who killed most of Paul’s family and set his life on fire. A huge antagonist and foil to Paul, Feyd has absolutely unhinged energy – just look up Sting playing him in David Lynch’s 1984 adaptation.
There’s been speculation around actors like Barry Keoghan and Bill Skarsgard taking on the role of Feyd, while Anya Taylor-Joy and Jodie Comer would both make powerhouse Irulans. Luckily, a 2023 release date means casting should be just around the corner…
Some Nice Flashbacks of Oscar Isaac
With Leto Atreides very much dead (RIP), the least we can hope for is some flashbacks of Oscar Isaac looking majestic in some excellently tailored coats. It’s what we deserve!
The Paul vs Feyd Showdown
If the Gom Jabbar (pain box) scene was one of the tensest sequences in the first film, then Paul and Feyd’s knife fight might just be that for the sequel.
While Paul is conflicted over honour, Feyd has none and it makes for a nail-biting fight. I can’t wait to see how Denis Villenueve translates it to screen, especially with Hans Zimmer returning to score the soundtrack. Bring on more bagpipes.
The Birth of Muad’Dib
We know from Paul’s visions that his eyes turn blue – a reaction to being exposed to the “spice” over time – but that’s not the only change in store. We’ve also seen a future where Paul leads the Fremen into battle and wages a devastating war across the universe.
While these premonitions rattled him – he shouted at his mother! Really loudly! The whole cinema jumped! – we can be sure of one thing. He’s going to lead the Fremen and use the name Muad’Dib, all while navigating the position of messiah.
What kind of leader he’ll actually be? That remains to be seen.
Featured image courtesy of Wolfgang Hasselmann on Unsplash. No changes or alterations have been made to this image. Image license can be found here.