Dune

Film Preview: Dune: Part Three – Denis Villeneuve’s Epic Conclusion to Paul Atreides’ Saga

Following the critical and commercial success of Dune (2021) and Dune: Part Two (2024), director Denis Villeneuve is officially preparing to adapt Frank Herbert’s second novel, Dune Messiah, as Dune: Part Three—anticipated to close out his cinematic vision for Arrakis and the rising journey of Paul Atreides.

Set roughly twelve years after the events of Part Two, Dune: Part Three delves into the complex aftermath of Paul Atreides’ rise to emperor. The storyline follows Paul’s moral and spiritual struggles, as the galaxy is engulfed in a jihad fought in his name. It introduces key factions like the Tleilaxu, with their manipulative Face Dancers, and explores internal and external conspiracies aimed at controlling or destabilizing Paul’s reign 

Legendary Pictures has greenlit the project and secured Villeneuve’s return as director. The screenplay has entered active development—Villeneuve confirmed “words on paper” and draft progress underway 
 While filming isn't expected to begin until summer 2025, plans indicate a release targeting December 2026 

Rumors also point to Jason Momoa’s Duncan Idaho returning via Tleilaxu resurrection protocols, as adapted faithfully from Herbert’s sequel 

Villeneuve has emphasized that, while Parts One and Two form a cohesive diptych, Part Three must stand on its own as a deeper, more introspective film. He’s cautious not to rush: “If ever I do Dune Messiah, it needs to be better than Part Two”—otherwise, he won’t proceed 

Villeneuve has expressed his intention to step away after Part Three, calling it his final Dune. That said, he’s planning to "plant seeds" that could allow subsequent filmmakers to continue adapting Herbert’s expansive universe 

Dune: Part Three promises to be a grand, philosophical centerpiece—one that confronts Paul’s transformation from savior to tyrant, his inner turmoil, and the cost of empire. With Villeneuve concluding his Arrakis trilogy, audiences can expect a richly layered, visually arresting conclusion built on the success of its predecessors. If Villeneuve’s vision materializes, it could cement Dune as one of the most thoughtful sci-fi tetralogies in cinema history.