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Denis Villeneuve’s long-awaited return to the desert planet of Arrakis now has an official title: Dune: Part Three. While previous reports had suggested the film might be titled Dune Messiah, referencing the 1969 Frank Herbert novel it is set to adapt, industry sources and Rentrak listings confirm the new installment will be called Dune: Part Three.
The upcoming film continues Paul “Muad’Dib” Atreides’ journey, this time exploring his role as emperor following the events of Dune: Part Two. Villeneuve previously stated that he considers the first two Dune films a complete story—an adaptation of Herbert’s first novel—describing them as a “diptych.” The third installment, while directly continuing Paul’s story, will stand apart with a unique identity rather than serving as the final piece in a trilogy.
Adding to the visual scope of the franchise, Dune: Part Three will include sequences shot with IMAX cameras, although not the entire film will be captured in the format. This approach mirrors the strategy used in previous entries, but falls short of Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, which became the first film to be shot entirely with IMAX cameras.
IMAX CEO Richard Gelfond stirred confusion during a CNBC interview when he suggested the whole film would be shot with IMAX technology. However, this has since been clarified as a misstatement. Gelfond, who also commented on Villeneuve’s recent hiring to direct the reboot of the James Bond franchise for Amazon MGM Studios, praised the filmmaker’s creative vision, stating, “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.”
As of now, a spokesperson for Legendary has not responded to clarify further details. Still, anticipation remains high. According to Bruce Markoe, IMAX’s head of post-production, shooting with IMAX cameras brings filmmakers into close collaboration with the company. These films are distinct from “Filmed for IMAX” titles, which use certified digital cameras.
Production on Dune: Part Three is expected to begin shortly. Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya will reprise their roles, and Jason Momoa is set to return after his absence in Part Two. The film is slated to arrive in theaters in December 2026.
