Denis Villeneuve, director of Dune: Part Two, recently shared why he chose not to include a particular sandworm question in the sequel, despite knowing the answer. The highly anticipated Dune: Part Two received positive reviews and had a strong start at the box office. The film boasts a talented cast, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Christopher Walken, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, Anya Taylor-Joy, Josh Brolin, Dave Bautista, Rebecca Ferguson, and Javier Bardem.
In an interview with IndieWire, Villeneuve mentioned that he is aware of how the Fremen sandworm dismount works. Despite being frequently asked about it, he decided not to show it in Dune: Part Two as he felt it was not essential to the story. However, Villeneuve expressed his plans to possibly include this detail in a potential Dune 3. Check out his full statement below:
How Dune: Part Two’s Unexplained Sci-Fi Mechanics Often Add To Its Intrigue
I knew how. I found a way. It was not dramatically necessary in ‘Dune: Part Two’ to see someone get out of the worm, but I know how to do it. And I can’t wait to put that on screen.
Zendaya looking surprised as Chani in Dune: Part Two - How Dune: Part Two’s Unexplained Sci-Fi Mechanics Often Add To Its Intrigue
Villeneuve’s Dune franchise has a history of building up anticipation around sandworms. In the 2021 movie, viewers catch a glimpse of the Fremen riding the sandworm in the closing moments, hinting at more thrilling scenes to come. However, the full experience of sandworm riding is saved for Dune: Part Two.
In Dune: Part Two, the mechanics of how Fremen mount the sandworms are clearly shown, with a grapple system and rhythmic summoning. Sandworm riding is portrayed as a skill mastered with grace, rather than a highly technical process. Audiences are not shown Paul's slow path to sandworm dismount mastery, which helps maintain the wonder of sandworm riding.
Similarly, Dune: Part Two also includes elements like Baron Vladimir Harkonnen's floating, which are not thoroughly explained. The science behind this detail is never explicitly outlined. In Dune: Part 3, exploring these elements further could enhance the lore and create a more immersive Arrakis experience without overwhelming the audience with exposition.
Source: IndieWire
Editor's P/S:
Denis Villeneuve's decision to withhold the sandworm dismount sequence from "Dune: Part Two" is a testament to his understanding of audience engagement and storytelling. By leaving this detail unexplained, he heightens the mystique and awe surrounding these colossal creatures, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the wonder and danger of Arrakis. The promise of revealing this secret in a potential "Dune 3" further fuels anticipation and keeps the franchise fresh and intriguing.
Villeneuve's approach reflects a broader trend in modern filmmaking, where exposition is often replaced with subtle hints and visual cues. This allows viewers to actively participate in the storytelling process, filling in the gaps and creating a more personal and immersive experience. By embracing this approach, Villeneuve enhances the impact of key plot elements while also leaving room for future exploration and expansion of the "Dune" universe.