After the release of Dune: Part Two earlier this year, director Denis Villeneuve initially hinted at taking a break from the franchise before considering a third film based on Dune: Messiah. However, Villeneuve has since altered his plans and is eager to return to the world of Arrakis sooner than anticipated.

"I initially thought that after Part Two, I would take a break and retreat into the woods to recuperate," Villeneuve explained to Deadline. "But I found that the woods weren't quite right for me, and I feel the urge to get back behind the camera more quickly than I had imagined. That's all I can say for now."

Earlier this year, Villeneuve secured the rights to adapt Annie Jacobsen's nonfiction book Nuclear War: A Scenario, a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Additionally, the director has hinted at other projects beyond Dune. If Dune: Messiah is indeed moving forward sooner than expected, the status of these other films remains uncertain.

Villeneuve has confirmed that he is currently writing the script for Dune: Messiah, emphasizing that it is not to be considered Dune: Part Three. Instead, it is a distinct story based on the third novel in Frank Herbert's sci-fi series.

"Just as Herbert did with Dune: Messiah, I believe it's a fantastic idea to approach it as something entirely different," Villeneuve said. "The story is set about 12 years after the events of Part Two, and the journey and narrative of the characters will be different this time. While it's still set in the same world, it's a new film with new challenges and circumstances."

When asked about a specific timeline for filming Dune: Messiah, Villeneuve remained somewhat elusive. However, he did indicate that he expects key cast members, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Anya Taylor-Joy, to return. Taylor-Joy made a surprise appearance in the second film.

"They must return," Villeneuve noted. "They are integral to the main cast when the story unfolds. And of course, there will be more of the iconic sandworms. What more can I say?"

While Dune: Messiah does not yet have a release date, fans can look forward to the upcoming prequel series, Dune: Prophecy, which is set to premiere on HBO and Max on November 17.

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