Is Dune Messiah happening?

Dune: Part Two is in cinemas now, so we’re asking the big question – will there be a Dune: Part Three, based on sequel novel Dune Messiah? Here’s everything we know.

When writer-director Denis Villeneuve adapted Frank Herbert’s epic 1965 sci-fi novel into a movie, he decided to split the story in two. Dune: Part One was released in 2021, while Dune: Part Two hit screens worldwide today.

You can read our 4-star review of the new movie here, while for a rundown of the very best Easter eggs in the film, click here (just beware of spoilers).

And while Dune 2 has a very definitive ending, it also sets up a future story, so here’s what we know about whether that will all pay-off.

Is Dune Messiah happening?

Yes, Dune Messiah is happening. The movie hasn’t received an official green-light, but Denis Villeneuve has revealed that a script is already in development, and that he plans to direct.

Variety reports that during a press conference in December, Villeneuve said: “The screenplay is almost finished but it is not finished. It will take a little time… there’s a dream of making a third movie… it would make absolute sense to me.”

So the only way Dune 3 wouldn’t happen is if Part Two is a huge flop. But with early tracking for the movie estimating a $165 million opening weekend, the future for Dune is bright.

That said, a Dune Messiah adaptation might happen later rather than sooner, as Villeneuve says he needs a break from all those sandworms and spice. “I don’t know exactly when I will go back to Arrakis,” the director said during that same press conference. “I might make a detour before just to go away from the sun. For my mental sanity I might do something in between, but my dream would be to go a last time on this planet that I love.”

The movie will also likely be his final entry in the franchise, with Villeneuve telling Time: “Dune Messiah should be the last Dune movie for me.”

Dune: Part Two is in cinemas now – you can read more about the movie here, or via the below articles:

Dune 2: Release date, cast, plot, trailer, & more | Dune: Part Two review – A reality you must experience | When does Dune take place? | How long is Dune 2? Runtime explained | How to watch Dune 2 – is it streaming? | Dune 2 debuts with near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score | Is Dune 2 the end? | How to read the Dune books in order | Dune gaming crossovers and collaborations | When to pee during Dune 2 | Best Easter eggs in Dune 2 | Ending explained | Does Dune 2 have a post-credits scene? | Dune 2 plus more movies releasing in March 2024