Chalamet, who plays Paul Atreides in both films, has asserted himself as one of very few stars under the age of 30 who has become a legitimate box office draw. Case in point, “Wonka” also made more than $600 million worldwide after hitting theaters in December, with its total currently sitting at $631 million. So both of Chalamet’s most recent movies delivered grosses that few movies have in the pandemic era. Sure, he’s benefiting a lot from franchise material, but the actor is owed his share of credit here. It’s no surprise that Warner Bros. recently signed Chalamet to a first-look deal.
For what it’s worth, Villeneuve is also owed credit for casting lots of young, fresh faces to go with the tried-and-true cast members. Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Austin Butler were also along for the ride, and their star power has grown as well. It is perhaps not a stretch to say that this movie’s success is helping shape the next generation of A-listers in Hollywood.
The big, lingering question is when — not if — Warner Bros. and/or Legendary announce “Dune Messiah.” Villeneuve has been clear about his desire to adapt Herbert’s second novel in the series and round out his cinematic trilogy. That said, there is a sizable time jump in the books, so the filmmaker is probably going to take a break to make something else before diving back into the sands of Arrakis. He’s earned that break.
“Dune: Part Two” is in theaters now.