Timothée Chalamet Teases Bold Time Leap in Dune 3

Audiences who have not delved into Frank Herbert’s Dune: Messiah are likely to be caught off guard by the direction of the third instalment. Timothée Chalamet has recently indicated that the next chapter will remain closely aligned with the source material, particularly regarding the substantial time jump between the first book and its sequel. Speaking ahead of the film’s release next year, Chalamet confirmed that the adaptation will embrace this leap forward in the narrative.

Significant Time Shift and Character Development

Chalamet remarked that his character would undergo a notable transformation, stating,

There’s supposed to be a nice character shift. I’m playing 15, 20 years older.

While the original novel features a 12-year gap, the film appears to extend this period, likely to sidestep the awkwardness surrounding Alia’s relationship with a revived Duncan Idaho. With Alia being in her mid-teens during Messiah, a longer time jump allows the story to avoid uncomfortable implications, which also sheds light on Anya Taylor-Joy’s casting in the role.

Looking at the previous films’ reception, the first Dune achieved an IMDb score of 8 and a box office return of $410.6 million, while its sequel improved on both counts, earning 8.5 on IMDb and grossing $714.8 million. The critical response has also been strong, with high marks on both Rotten Tomatoes and audience scores.

Staying True to Herbert’s Vision

After the conclusion of the second film, some speculated that Denis Villeneuve might diverge from Messiah, given its polarising reputation. However, the director has made it clear that he intends to honour Herbert’s original vision for the trilogy’s conclusion. The ending of the sequel, which features Chani riding a sandworm rather than receiving Lady Jessica’s famous line, was not seen as a major departure. Villeneuve explained,

It’s not that different. At the end of the book, Chani’s heart is broken, and it’s the beginning of the holy war.

Chalamet’s recent statements reinforce the commitment to a faithful adaptation, suggesting that those unfamiliar with the story’s trajectory will encounter some unexpected developments.

Paul Atreides’ Transformation and Audience Expectations

Herbert wrote Messiah partly out of frustration with readers who misinterpreted his intentions, viewing Paul as a straightforward hero rather than a cautionary figure. If Chalamet’s hints are any indication, those who have seen Paul as a traditional protagonist may be in for a shock as the story progresses.

Chalamet also mentioned a change in Paul’s appearance, particularly his hairstyle, which he admitted was not his favourite aspect of the role.

You know, your hair, weirdly we’re all attached [to our hair]. It’s kind of like our personalities, these follicles that grow out of our heads

With Villeneuve’s reputation for meticulous filmmaking, expectations are high for a fitting conclusion to Paul’s journey.

Dune: Part 3 is set to premiere on 18 December in the United States.