Following an impressive theatrical and streaming run during a time filled with heightened tensions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epicDuneis reportedly returning to HBO Max very soon.
Based on Frank Herbet’s acclaimed 1965 novel,Dunefollows the Atreides family accepting the stewardship of the dangerous desert planet Arrakis (also referred to as Dune), which contains the most valuable substance in the universe known as the “spice.” A part of Warner Bros.' hybrid model for its 2021 slated films,Dunepremiered on HBO Max the same day as its theatrical release, but the film was available to stream only for 30 days on the platform.
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Now successfully grossing over $400 million worldwide along with being a critical success (asDunehas earned 10 Academy Award Nominations), it appears that the film is returning to HBO MAX ahead of the big award ceremony. According to Hidden Report,Dunewill return to the streaming platform next month on March 10, which will be right before the final voting for the Oscars. The film has been available to rent or buy on PVOD services such as Apple TV, Prime Video, Vudu, Google Play, and YouTube.
While it’s great that the film is returning to HBO Max for a longer streaming period and has the opportunity to hopefully attract a greater audience, Villeneuve and many other filmmakers were opposed to the initial 30-day streaming decision. In fact, Villeneuve saidDune’s HBO Max release was a bad decision. Even if Villeneuve was against the hybrid model, the director still seems to be on good terms with the studio, as he is gearing up to begin filmingDune: Part Twoin July 2022, which was officially greenlit only a week afterDune’s release.
Still in early development, what is known is that the sequel will cover the second half of the novel, which isheavily focused on the ruthless House Harkonnenand the native desert tribe known as the Fremen. In addition, Villeneuve has confirmed thatDune: Part Twowill be much more fun, as the first film dealt with plenty of world-building and setting up several characters and their story arcs.
While the film’s production approaches, fans can expect more details surroundingDune: Part Twoto surface online. Until then, they can immerse themselves again in the world ofDune. The film’sstar-studded ensemble includes Timothée Chalametas Paul Atreides, Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica, Oscar Isaac as Duke Leto Atreides, Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho, Zendaya as Chani, Josh Brolin as Gurney Halleck, Javier Bardem as Stilgar, and Stellan Skarsgård as Baron Harkonnen.
Duneis currently playing in theaters and is available on digital platforms, whileDune: Part Twois set to arrive in theaters on June 16, 2025.
