Dune 2: A love story takes centre stage amidst epic saga, despite actors' awkward on‑set kiss
The first instalment of "Dune", adapted from Frank Herbert's novel, grossed 400 million dollars globally in 2021. A year on, Denis Villeneuve, the director, began the sequel's production. The plot still remains quite broad. Paul Atreides aligns with Chani and the Fremen to battle against the Harkonnens. Compared to the first instalment, the sequel promises bigger and better things.
"I probably shouldn't say this, but I'll say that, for me, the first part of 'Dune' is like an appetizer, and the second is the main course." the director confided in "Collider".
Love story
The movie's Lady Jessica, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson, expressed her thoughts more passionately.
Dune: Part Two | Official Trailer 3
"The first 'Dune' film pales compared to the second one. It's like a gut punch," the excited actress admitted to a magazine.
It appears the sequel will largely focus on the romance between Paul and Chani.
"Denis managed to craft a beautiful love story between the main characters amidst the epic setting of 'Dune'," said Zendaya, who plays Chani, during a chat with "Entertainment Tonight".
Awkward kiss
The "Dune 2" trailer featured a passionate kiss that piqued the viewers' curiosity. However, shooting this scene was not particularly enjoyable for the actors. Both have been friends for quite some time and are in committed relationships: Timothee Chalamet with Kylie Jenner and Zendaya with Tom Holland.
"It was a strange, but we reminded each other, 'It's work, let's do it'," recalled Zendaya, who plays Chani, in "ET".
"It was bizarre because we are platonic friends, but we treated it like another day at work," added Chalamet.
Sensual without being explicit
Zendaya draws viewers' attention to another element just before the premiere: the unspoken intimacy between Paul and Chani.
"The most significant part is what remains unsaid and is hidden in their glances. We heavily focussed on this. These are fleeting moments, but they speak volumes," Zendaya said.
The second part of "Dune" will be in cinemas from the 1st of March this year.
