Filming begins for Dune 3”: Return of the stars on Arrakis!

Filming begins for Dune 3”: Return of the stars on Arrakis!

In Los Angeles, renowned director Denis Villeneuve officially announced the start of production on the highly anticipated third part of the “Dune” film series. This didn't happen without a sneak peek at the desert planet Arrakis, captured in a stunning new photo. Villeneuve, who is not only responsible for directing the “Dune” films but was also recently named director of the next “James Bond” film, has big plans. Numerous stars return in this new part, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya and Jason Momoa, who reprise their roles.

The story of “Dune: Part Three” picks up exactly where “Dune: Part Two” leaves off and is based on Frank Herbert’s work “Dune Messiah”. This means the action will take place twelve years after the events of the previous film. The theatrical release is scheduled for December 18, 2026, which only increases the anticipation of returning to the fascinating universe of Arrakis.

Filming locations and film crew

Filming for “Dune: Part Three” began on July 8, 2025 in Budapest and will be partially done using IMAX cameras. Villeneuve has made a name for himself in the past by creating visually stunning worlds, and seems to have a good hand here too. He was once again able to recruit Hans Zimmer for the soundtrack, who will create the epic sounds of the film. Gerd Nefzer, a special effects artist who already won an Oscar for “Dune: Part Two,” is once again part of the team and promises to fascinate viewers with innovative effects. Talented cinematographer Linus Sandgren is also being considered to further refine the visual experience.

Another highlight is the introduction of new characters. Robert Pattinson is being considered for a role, possibly as Scytale, while Paul Atreides' children, Leto II and Ghanima, will be portrayed by Nakoa-Wolf Momoa and Ida Brooke. The interaction of these familiar and new faces promises an exciting further development of the complex story.

A cult continues

The Dune franchise, which began with Frank Herbert's first novel in 1965, is one of the most important sci-fi universes in history. After all, the original novel is considered the best-selling science fiction book of all time and has inspired numerous adaptations, including the two recently released films. The narrative revolves around the desert planet Arrakis, which is home to a precious substance, Spice Melange, which is essential not only for interstellar travel but also for enhancing mental abilities.

Villeneuve has already announced that he wants to create the Dune films as a trilogy based on the first two novels. The success of the first part in 2021 and the sequel that has already taken place have set the course for an exciting final story. Given the success of the two parts so far, one can look forward to an epic and rousing implementation.

In summary, the new part of the “Dune” saga shows promising approaches and the return of familiar faces together with new characters. The only question that remains open is how those responsible will manage to meet the fans' enormous expectations - a challenge that Villeneuve will certainly accept. Until the film hits theaters, anticipation remains a constant companion.

For more information about the film and its developments, we invite you to also read the articles from Radio Herford, Wikipedia and Dune franchise to read.