In a transfer that has quietly flown below the radar, Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune: Half Three” is outwardly being shot on movie, together with 15-perf 65mm (IMAX) and 5-perf 65mm codecs.
The revelation comes by way of Kodak, who just lately revealed the information. Little doubt, the movie’s DP, Linus Sandgren, a serious advocate of movie over digital, might need considerably swayed Villeneuve right here.
This marks a big departure from the primary two ‘Dune’ instalments, each of which have been shot digitally. Whereas these movies had an epic visible scope and meticulous design, they have been nonetheless very a lot merchandise of the digital period. With ‘Half Three,’ it appears Villeneuve is doubling down on a extra natural aesthetic to shut out his sci-fi trilogy.
This additionally positions “Dune: Half Three” as a part of a rising wave of big-budget productions returning to movie. Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino, and Greta Gerwig have all embraced 65mm codecs in recent times, typically with dazzling outcomes on the field workplace and in awards season.
Greig Fraser, who was cinematographer on Villeneuve’s first two ‘Dune’ motion pictures, just isn’t returning for the third instalment. Fraser’s substitute would be the Oscar successful Sandgren whose most notable work might be seen in “La La Land,” and “No Time to Die.” He just lately lensed Noah Baumbach’s “Jay Kelly” which is ready for launch later this fall.
Sandgren is extensively recognized for his sturdy desire for taking pictures on movie — significantly 35mm and 65mm codecs — and he’s been very vocal about it. Sandgren as soon as said that movie gives a “magic and emotion” that digital can’t replicate.
Principal images on “Dune: Half Three” started in July 2025 in Budapest. The movie is scheduled for launch on December 18, 2026.
