Like an unexpected ripple in the sands of Arrakis, Dune fans everywhere just got a huge surprise from the series’ protagonist. According to IndieWire, Timothee Chalamet took to his official Instagram yesterday to share the very first candid shot of his character Paul Atreides on the production set of the upcoming sci-fi blockbuster sequel, Dune part two.
Although it’s a discreet shot from behind, we can see young Paul in what appears to be a long, black hooded coat adorned with a skeleton design, standing among the familiar dusky brown mounds of the planet Arrakis. While the setting is certainly the film’s final stop in the United Arab Emirates, it’s unclear if this is an official piece of clothing or simply Timothée’s casual fashion. Either way, it paints an exciting preview for fans anyway, and with no caption, the actor lets the photo speak for itself.
Dune Part Two picks up where Part One left off
The equally wonderful sequel to DuneBacked again by Legendary Pictures, picks up where Paul Atreides left off, traveling with his mother, Zendaya’s character Chani, and the native Fremen to the deepest reaches of the desert planet. According to the official summary published by Warner Bros.:
This sequel explores the mythical journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen as he embarks on a warpath of vengeance against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Faced with a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, he tries to prevent a terrible future that only he can foresee.
Recurring director Denis Villeneuve also notes this in an interview with Empire that the sequel will see a significant shift in focus to the almighty Harkonnens, the villainous empire that violently took down House Atreides in the first film.
“The second part will introduce some new characters, and a decision I made very early on was that this first part would be more about Paul Atreides and the Bene Gesserit, and his experience of first coming into contact with another culture. Second part, there will be a lot more Harkonnen stuff.
In addition to the returning cast, the sequel will see the addition of several new familiar actors, including Christopher Walken as Emperor Shaddam, Austin Butler (Elvis) as Feyd Rautha, Florence Pugh (Black Widow, Midsommar), Lea Seydoux (No time to die), Souheila Yacoub and more.
Dune part two is currently in the final part of production and still on track for its new theatrical release date of November 3, 2023.