“Dune 3”: Filming started – photo released

Los Angeles. With a photo of the desert planet Arrakis, director Denis Villeneuve announced the start of production on the third "Dune" film. The Canadian, who was recently named director of the next "James Bond" film, is bringing many stars back to the camera for "Dune 3," including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Jason Momoa. Filming is taking place in locations including Hungary.

The films are based on a series of novels by Frank Herbert. The story centers on the desert planet Arrakis. Only there is a special, valuable substance found – which is why the planet is exploited by other powers in the galaxy and its inhabitants are oppressed.

Special effects artist Gerd Nefzer (60), originally from Schwäbisch Hall, is once again involved in the production. He won his third Oscar in March for his work on the film "Dune: Part Two." Nefzer first won the trophy in 2018 with three colleagues for the visual effects in "Blade Runner 2049." His second Oscar followed in 2022 for the first part of "Dune."

Last year, the third installment in the film series was confirmed. It was known that Canadian director Villeneuve wanted to make a total of three "Dune" films, based on Frank Herbert's first two books. "Dune: Part Three" is scheduled to hit theaters in late 2026.

RND/dpa