The highly anticipated sci-fi sequel Dune: Part Two, which contains spoilers, features a variety of visually stunning filming locations that effectively immerse viewers in its fictional world. Following a three-year wait, Dune: Part Two was finally unveiled in theaters to widespread critical acclaim. The storyline centers on Paul Atreides, who joins forces with Chani and the Fremens on Arrakis to reclaim their planet from the House Harkonnen. Originally slated for a November 2023 release, the film faced several delays before hitting the big screen. Despite the prolonged wait, Dune: Part Two has managed to surpass the first movie in terms of Rotten Tomatoes score.
The impressive world-building in Dune: Part Two is a key factor in its success. The fictional setting of the movie incorporates various filming locations from Dune and recreates them on Arrakis. Moreover, the film goes beyond just recreating these locations by expanding the setting and paving the way for further worldbuilding in Dune 3.
Budapest, Hungary
Paul Atreides talking to the Fremen Army in Dune 2. - Budapest, Hungary
The battles in Dune: Part Two were filmed in Budapest, Hungary, as reported by Collider. It is highly likely that the movie was filmed on the Origo Film Studios’ backlot, similar to the previous time they were in Budapest. By choosing to film on a lot instead of a real location, more flexibility is offered to incorporate explosions and action for large-scale battles. Budapest has also been used as a backdrop for other films such as Poor Things, Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire, and the upcoming Borderlands movie.
The gap between Dune: Part Two and Dune 3 will be larger due to the time jump in the story.
Wadi Rum, Jordan
A sandworm emerges from a billowing dust cloud while tiny human figures flee in a dramatic scene from Dune: Part Two - Wadi Rum, Jordan
The production team for Dune: Part Two chose to film in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan, which also served as a filming location for the first film. This stunning desert location, with its red sand and striking landscapes, perfectly embodies the barren planet Arrakis. Known for its resemblance to outer space, Wadi Rum has been featured in other films such as Prometheus, The Martian, and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The surreal visuals of this environment make it the ideal setting for the fictional planet Arrakis in the Dune series.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
paul and chani kiss on top of a sand dune in dune 2 - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Collider reported that Dune: Part Two will utilize Abu Dhabi as the setting for the planet Arrakis in both films. In the initial movie, the United Arab Emirates served as the backdrop for the rock shelters utilized by the Fremens. With the reappearance of the Fremens in Dune: Part Two, the film will once again utilize this location to shape the Fremen people as they strive to reclaim their homeland.
Moreover, due to the striking similarity in landscape between Wadi Rum and Abu Dhabi, scenes filmed in these locations could be seamlessly combined to depict the majority of the exteriors of Arrakis. Furthermore, the first film captured the ornithopters soaring with a helicopter over Abu Dhabi, a technique that could be employed once more to realistically portray the various aircraft in Dune: Part Two.
Altivole, Treviso, Italy
Other popular movies filmed in Abu Dhabi include Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, Furious 7, and Deliver Us From Evil. All of these movies have different perspectives and genres, but they share beautiful Emirati landscapes.
The Harkonnens in Dune 2021 - Altivole, Treviso, Italy
Dune: Part Two utilized Altivole in the province of Treviso, Italy as a filming location, a new addition not seen in the first Dune film. IMDb notes that the interiors of the Corrino household, one of the six houses and factions in Dune: Part Two, were filmed in Altivole. The Italian architectural style is sure to distinguish this setting from the rest of Arrakis, highlighting the contrast between the Corrinos and the Fremens. Interestingly, the only other film listed as having filmed in Altivole is the documentary Memoriae Causa.
Memoriale Brion, Altivole, Treviso, Veneto, Italy
Chani confronts Jessica with writing on her face in Dune 2 - Memoriale Brion, Altivole, Treviso, Veneto, Italy
The second filming location for Dune: Part Two is Memoriale Brione, a tomb in Altivole. IMDb identifies this location as the exteriors of the film, likely representing the Corrino household in the movie. The modernist architecture of the building will stand out on screen and add to the overall aesthetic. Most of the movie is set in the dunes, making the unique buildings even more memorable. Therefore, choosing a location with a stunning exterior was a wise decision for the filmmakers.
Editor's P/S:
The article provides an insightful glimpse into the diverse filming locations used in "Dune: Part Two," showcasing the filmmakers' meticulous attention to detail in recreating the fictional world of Arrakis. The choice of locations, ranging from the sprawling desert landscapes of Wadi Rum to the historic architecture of Altivole, adds depth and authenticity to the film's setting. The fact that the film surpasses the first in terms of Rotten Tomatoes score is a testament to the successful execution of this world-building effort.
The use of both familiar and new locations in "Dune: Part Two" enhances the audience's immersion in the story. The return to Wadi Rum ensures continuity with the first film, while the introduction of Altivole adds a distinct visual element to the Corrino household. This approach allows the filmmakers to expand the world of Arrakis while maintaining consistency within the franchise. Overall, the article highlights the importance of filming locations in shaping the cinematic experience and the dedication of the "Dune: Part Two" team in crafting a visually stunning and immersive adaptation of the beloved novel.