It’s official — Legendary Pictures has signed the very talented Denis Villeneuve to direct the exciting new DUNE series film project.
— Brian Herbert (@DuneAuthor) February 1, 2017
After speculating that Denis Villeneuve may or may not direct the upcoming Dune remake, we now have official word: It’s a go. The announcement was made via Frank Herbert’s son, Brian Herbert, on Twitter. This comes after Villeneuve snagged an Academy Award nomination for Best Director for his work on Arrival (which is nominated for seven other awards including Best Picture). He’s no stranger to sci-fi remakes as he also directed Blade Runner 2049, slated for release on October 6, 2017.
Legendary Entertainment previously purchased the TV and film rights to the classic sci-fi story, meaning that any project that surfaces from this agreement will have Thomas Tull, Mary Parent and Cale Boyter as producers, with Brian Herbert, Byron Merritt and Kim Herbert acting as executive producers.
Taking place in the distant future, the 1965 novel follows the story of Paul Atreides and the challenges that arise after his family accepts stewardship over the desert planet Arrakis. Since the planet houses a highly coveted spice called melange, found nowhere else in the galaxy, other nobles contest their control over the planet (and substance), which causes someone to betray the family. What happens next is an exploration of corrupt politics, environmentalism and gender dynamics.
David Lynch previously adapted the story into a 1984 film starring Virginia Madsen and Kyle MacLachlan.
(via The Playlist, image via screencap)
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