IMAX may have just confirmed the highly anticipated Dune: Messiah movie directed by Denis Villeneuve. Following the success of Dune and its sequels, fans have been eagerly awaiting news about the next installment in the franchise. The filmmaker has successfully brought Frank Herbert’s intricate sci-fi universe to life with Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, both of which have captivated audiences worldwide.
The conclusion of Dune: Part Two left viewers with a sense of excitement and curiosity about what lies ahead for the characters on the desert planet of Arrakis. While earlier reports hinted at Villeneuve and Legendary Entertainment developing a third film in the Dune series, official confirmation had been elusive until now.
During IMAX’s recent Q2 earnings call, the company unveiled a slideshow that included details about upcoming big-budget films set to hit theaters in 2026. Among the projects listed was an untitled Dune movie from Warner Bros. Pictures, directed by Denis Villeneuve. Although the presentation did not explicitly name the film Dune: Messiah, the context strongly suggests that it will adapt the story from Herbert’s novel of the same name.
Villeneuve has previously expressed his desire to create a third Dune film, stating that it would only come to fruition if the script met his high standards. He emphasized the importance of crafting a “tremendous” screenplay, reflecting the delicate nature of adapting Herbert’s work. “Dune Messiah – which, Dune 3, the title would be Dune Messiah – we’ll see the day when the screenplay will be ready, and I want to make sure that there will be no compromise,” he remarked. “It has to be tremendous. All is there to make the fantastic film, and I don’t want to mess it up.”
IMAX’s announcement aligns with earlier reports suggesting that Villeneuve’s next project would be a sequel to Dune, with a release date set for December 18, 2026. While the title Dune: Messiah has been widely circulated, the IMAX presentation referred to the film simply as “Untitled Dune – Denis Villeneuve.” This could indicate that the studio is keeping its options open regarding the title, but it does not diminish the excitement surrounding the project.
Fans of the Dune franchise have much to look forward to in the coming years. With Dune: Part Two already making waves at the box office, surpassing $250 million domestically, the anticipation for the next installment is palpable. Villeneuve’s vision for the Dune universe has been met with critical acclaim, and the prospect of continuing the story with Dune: Messiah is thrilling for both fans and newcomers alike.
As we await further details about the film, there is also an upcoming HBO Max prequel series titled Dune: Prophecy, set to premiere this autumn. Starring Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, the series aims to expand the Dune universe and provide additional context to the events leading up to the films. If it captures the same essence as Villeneuve’s adaptations, it promises to be an exciting addition to the franchise.
In conclusion, IMAX’s recent announcement has sparked renewed excitement for Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Messiah movie. While the title remains somewhat uncertain, the confirmation of a third installment in the Dune series is a significant development for fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of this epic saga. With a release date set for 2026, the journey through Herbert’s universe is far from over, and audiences can expect more breathtaking visuals and compelling storytelling in the years to come.
Source: IMAX, Warner Bros. Pictures, THR
