Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Three has officially confirmed its title, shutting down rumors that it would be called Dune Messiah. The third film in the sci-fi saga will continue the story of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) and Chani (Zendaya) but will not follow the exact naming of Frank Herbert’s second book.
The decision to stick with Dune: Part Three keeps the naming style consistent with the first two films, Dune (2021) and Dune: Part Two (2024). While fans expected Dune Messiah, the new title suggests a direct continuation rather than a standalone story.
Why the Title Changed
Earlier reports suggested the film would be named Dune Messiah, matching the 1969 novel it adapts. However, director Denis Villeneuve chose Dune: Part Three to avoid confusing casual viewers.
“From a marketing perspective, that decision makes perfect sense. Dune: Part Two was a massive box-office smash, and it ended on a cliffhanger. Calling the next film Dune: Part Three suggests to casual fans that this is the direct continuation of those first two parts they saw and liked.”
The story will still follow Dune Messiah, picking up 12 years after Part Two, with Paul ruling as Emperor amid political and religious turmoil.
Filming Details and Returning Cast
Production has started in Budapest, with an “extensive, multi-location, multi-month shoot” planned. Key returning actors include:
- Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides
- Zendaya as Chani
- Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho (returning after missing Part Two)
- Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan
- Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Alia Atreides
New additions include Nakoa-Wolf Momoa and Ida Brooke as Paul and Chani’s twin children, Leto II and Ghanima Atreides.
Timothée Chalamet’s New Look for Dune 3
Chalamet has shaved his head for the role, sparking fan reactions online.
“OMG BUZZ CUT!!?”
“TIMOTHÉE HEAD SHAVED CONFIRMED. I AM GUTTED.”
The drastic change hints at Paul’s darker transformation as Emperor.
IMAX Cameras Only for Select Scenes
Rumors claimed Dune: Part Three would be fully shot in IMAX, but only key sequences will use the format. This follows Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, the only film entirely shot in IMAX.
IMAX CEO Richard Gelfond initially suggested full IMAX filming but later clarified:
“He’s making the next ‘Dune’ — with Imax cameras, he’s filming the whole thing. So we haven’t started talking yet, but I’m praying that that’s the case with Bond.”
A Legendary Entertainment spokesperson did not confirm the details.
Fan Reactions to the Title Change
Many fans expressed disappointment over the title Dune: Part Three instead of Dune Messiah.
“I am sorry, but that is a terrible title.”
“Ngl hate the title. Messiah is so much better.”
“Is WB drunk or what? Messiah is about to be the hardest subtitle ever for a film.”
Others defended the decision, saying:
“Makes sense. No need to confuse new viewers with the Messiah title.”
Will There Be a Dune 4?
Villeneuve has said Dune: Part Three is not the end of the franchise.
“If I do a third one, which is in the writing process, it’s not like a trilogy. It’s strange to say that, but if I go back there, it’s to do something that feels different and has its own identity.”
Rumors suggest Gareth Edwards could take over if Villeneuve steps away after Dune 3.
Release Date and Expectations
Dune: Part Three is set for December 18, 2026. The previous film, Dune: Part Two, earned $700 million worldwide and received five Oscar nominations, raising expectations for the next installment.
Credits: Sources include Variety, The Independent, MovieWeb, and Filmfare.
