The Anticipation Builds: Brace Yourself for an Extended Wait on Dune 2 and Aquaman 2

Warner Bros. is contemplating delaying the release dates of The Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom and Dune 2 due to ongoing strikes by the Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guild. The writers initiated the strike on May 2nd after failed negotiations with the studios, causing a halt in productions that required writing and were disrupted by picketing. Further impacting the industry, actors joined the strike on July 14th after being unable to reach a deal with the studios. As a consequence, almost all productions have come to a standstill, preventing actors from promoting their films.

Variety has reported that Warner Bros. is giving serious consideration to postponing the release dates of some of their highly anticipated films, including Dune 2 and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, with the possibility of pushing them back to 2024. In the case of Dune 2, the situation is slightly more complex as it is a collaborative effort between Warner Bros. and Legendary Entertainment. Therefore, both parties would need to reach a mutual agreement on a new release date. At present, there have been no official discussions regarding a potential change in the release date between the two companies.

Aquaman 2 has faced numerous challenges, including multiple reshoots and an abundance of test screenings. It will mark the final installment in the DCEU series before James Gunn takes over for a DCU reboot. The first Aquaman film was a massive success for the DCEU, grossing over $1.14 billion at the box office. However, given recent disappointments with other DCEU films like Shazam 2, Black Adam, and The Flash, coupled with ongoing issues within the Hollywood industry, the studio understandably has concerns about the sequel's potential success.

Dune 2, set to release on November 3rd, boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring the likes of Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Josh Brolin, and more. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, slated for a December release, also stars the highly popular Jason Mamoa. However, due to an ongoing actors' strike, none of these cast members can actively promote the film until a resolution is reached. This means no interviews, talk show appearances, or participation in conventions, including San Diego Comic-Con. These star-studded appearances are essential in generating interest and attracting audiences to the movie.

Studios' consideration of delaying movies until 2024 indicates their lack of anticipation for a prompt resolution of any deal. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is currently slated for a theater release on December 20, while Dune 2 is scheduled to premiere in theaters on November 3, 2023.

Source: Variety