DUNE: PART THREE – Trailer (2026) Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya | Warner Bros

Dune: Part Three is the highly anticipated third installment in Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune series, expected to release in 2025. Following the critical and commercial success of Dune (2021) and Dune: Part Two (2024), this next chapter promises to further explore the expansive world of Arrakis, its complex political conflicts, and the spiritual journey of Paul Atreides.

Potential Plot Overview

While details remain under wraps, Dune: Part Three will likely draw on material from Herbert’s original Dune novel as well as delve into the beginning of Dune Messiah, the second book in the series. By this point, Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) has assumed the mantle of the Kwisatz Haderach, a prophesied figure with unparalleled powers. He faces growing challenges as he balances his role as a leader, messiah, and warrior, all while grappling with the devastating consequences of his choices.

As Paul navigates the precarious path of ruling over a galaxy on the brink of war, he must contend with new and returning adversaries who seek to control him or destroy him. His rise to power has stirred powerful factions, each vying for influence in a galaxy dominated by political and religious conflicts. Paul’s relationship with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen people will be tested as he struggles with the weight of destiny, personal sacrifice, and the impact of his “holy war” on the galaxy.

Key Themes

Power and the Burden of Destiny
Dune: Part Three is expected to focus on Paul’s internal struggle with power and the messianic expectations placed upon him. As a ruler and a near-godlike figure to the Fremen, Paul faces the dark consequences of his actions and the violence unleashed in his name. His journey grapples with the immense burden of fate, as he questions whether the ends justify the means.

Politics and Religion
Frank Herbert’s Dune series examines the intersections of politics and religion, exploring how they can be used both to liberate and control. In Part Three, Paul will confront the consequences of blending political leadership with religious worship. This film will likely delve into the dangers of fanaticism, examining how the “jihad” ignited by Paul’s leadership reverberates across the galaxy, affecting millions.

Sacrifice and Redemption
The theme of sacrifice plays a pivotal role in Paul’s journey. In Part Three, he may be forced to reckon with the irreversible damage caused by his rise to power, as well as the personal losses he endures. This chapter could explore the complex question of redemption: is there a path to redemption for someone who has set a galaxy ablaze, and can Paul find peace amid the devastation left in his wake?

Returning and New Cast

With Denis Villeneuve’s vision attracting a star-studded ensemble cast, Dune: Part Three will likely see Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, and other central cast members reprising their roles. There is also potential for new characters, possibly from Dune Messiah, to be introduced. Villeneuve has remained faithful to Herbert’s work, suggesting that new characters integral to the original books may join the narrative.

Visuals and Cinematic Style

Given the grand scale of the first two films, Dune: Part Three is anticipated to continue its mesmerizing visuals, bringing Arrakis and the galaxy to life with sweeping desert landscapes, intricate set designs, and detailed costume work. Villeneuve’s use of practical effects, immersive cinematography, and Hans Zimmer’s powerful score is likely to be maintained, further enhancing the cinematic experience.