Dune Messiah Filming 2025: What We Know

The highly anticipated Dune: Messiah, also known as Dune: Part Three, starring Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Anya Taylor-Joy, Rebecca Ferguson, and Robert Pattinson, is officially gearing up to begin principal photography in June–July 2025.  Most reports, including Deadline and Numéro, pinpoint June 2025, with set construction perhaps kicking off at Origo Studios in Budapest even earlier, around July 7th

‘Dune: Messiah’ Filming Starts Soon: Cast, Plot, and What to Expect in 2025

Dune: Messiah adapts Frank Herbert’s 1969 novella, shifting tone from grand epic to political thriller. Paul, now Emperor, navigates religious fervor, political conspiracies, and the darker consequences of power.

• Plot beats: Set 12 years after Dune. It deals with Paul’s heavy burden as a religious figurehead and the moral complexity of his reign.
• Visual storytelling: Expect more talk-driven palace scenes, cloak‑and‑dagger intrigue, and fewer open‑world desert battles.

What We Know About Dune: Messiah So Far

The Dune: Messiah cast is a who ’ who of Hollywood talent, blending returning favorites with fresh additions. Here’s the lineup that’s got everyone talking:

• Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides: The Lisan al Gaib is back, navigating his role as Emperor Muad’Dib. Chalamet’s multi-year deal with Warner Bros. ensures his return, and fans are eager to see how he portrays a more seasoned (and possibly less likable) Paul.
• Zendaya as Chani: Despite her character storming off at the end of Dune: Part Two, Zendaya is confirmed to return. Her role may be smaller this time, with reports suggesting the focus will shift to other characters.
• Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan: Pugh’s Princess Irulan takes center stage in Dune: Messiah, with Villeneuve promising a “prominent” role. She’s already hyped about getting “more cool outfits!”
• Anya Taylor-Joy as Alia Atreides: After her brief cameo in Dune: Part Two, Alia steps into a major role as Paul’s sister. Villeneuve has teased her political and religious influence, which could shake things up.
• Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica: While Lady Jessica is only briefly mentioned in Herbert’s novel, Villeneuve may tweak the story to give Ferguson a bigger role, much like he did in Dune: Part Two.
• Robert Pattinson as Scytale (Rumored): The Batman himself is reportedly in talks to play the shape-shifting Face Dancer Scytale, a cunning villain plotting against Paul. This casting has fans buzzing, though it’s not officially confirmed yet.
• Jason Momoa as Duncan Idaho: Surprise! Momoa’s Duncan Idaho, who died in Dune: Part One, returns as a ghola (a resurrected clone) with a secret mission. Momoa spilled the beans on his return, joking, “If you didn’t read the books, it’s not my fault!”
• Javier Bardem as Stilgar: The Fremen leader is back, and Bardem’s enthusiasm for the role suggests Stilgar will remain a key player.
• Newcomers Nakoa-Wolf Momoa and Ida Brooke: In a wild twist, Jason Momoa’s son Nakoa-Wolf and actress Ida Brooke are set to play Paul and Chani’s twins, Leto II and Ghanima. Talk about keeping it in the family

Other potential returnees include Josh Brolin as Gurney Halleck, Charlotte Rampling as Gaius Helen Mohiam, and Léa Seydoux as Lady Margot Fenring, though their roles in the book are minimal. Villeneuve’s knack for creative liberties means we might see them woven into the story in unexpected ways.

When Can We Expect the Release?

While no official date is confirmed, industry insiders speculate a late 2026 or early 2027 release, given the lengthy post-production needed for Villeneuve’s grand sci-fi spectacles.

Final Thoughts: Why This Is a Must-Watch

With a stellar cast, visionary director, and a story that delves deeper into power and prophecy, Dune: Messiah is shaping up to be the sci-fi event of 2026. Stay tuned for more updates as filming begins!

🔥 Are you excited for Dune: Messiah? Who are you most looking forward to seeing? Drop your thoughts in the comments!