Acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg has bestowed immense praise upon fellow director Denis Villeneuve, revealing that the Dune film series ranks among his absolute favourite science-fiction movies of all time. The legendary director behind classics such as ET and Jurassic Park made these glowing remarks in a recent interview with Empire magazine, highlighting his admiration for Villeneuve's cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert's seminal novels.
Spielberg's Enthusiastic Endorsement
"They are among my favourite science-fiction movies – not just recently, but of all time," declared Spielberg, who also directed Jaws and Schindler's List. He expressed particular excitement for the upcoming final instalment, stating, "I cannot wait to see the third one. I'm sure he'll show it to me early. I'm such a fan of his."
Spielberg further elaborated on his appreciation, drawing a parallel to other celebrated literary adaptations. "I love the Dune books, and I just think his tribute to the books is like Guillermo del Toro's tribute to Mary Shelley with Frankenstein: he honoured Mary Shelley as I think Denis honoured Frank Herbert," he explained.
Box Office Success and Upcoming Release
The Dune franchise has achieved significant commercial success, with Dune: Part One grossing approximately $410 million worldwide upon its 2021 release, and Dune: Part Two earning around $714 million globally following its 2024 debut. The highly anticipated conclusion, Dune: Part Three, is scheduled for release in December 2026 and will introduce Robert Pattinson as the new shapeshifting villain, Scytale. IMAX tickets for the final chapter are already on sale.
Historical Praise and World-Building Legacy
This is not the first instance of Spielberg lauding Villeneuve's work. Following the release of Dune: Part Two in 2024, Spielberg described it as "one of the most brilliant science-fiction films I've ever seen." In a March 2024 Q&A session with Villeneuve, Spielberg discussed the elite group of "filmmakers who are the builders of worlds," placing Villeneuve among cinematic greats like Georges Méliès, Walt Disney, Stanley Kubrick, George Lucas, and Federico Fellini.
"The list goes on, but it's not that long of a list, and I deeply, fervently believe that you are one of its newest members," Spielberg told Villeneuve. He specifically highlighted the sandworm surfing scene from Dune: Part Two, calling it "one of the greatest things I have ever seen. Ever!"
Spielberg's Own Sci-Fi Return
Meanwhile, Steven Spielberg is preparing for his own return to the science-fiction genre this summer with the upcoming film Disclosure Day, starring Emily Blunt and Josh O'Connor. Rumoured to be a secret sequel to his beloved 1977 film Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Disclosure Day is set for release in UK cinemas on 12 June 2026.
Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Three will arrive in UK theatres on 18 December 2026, marking the conclusion of a trilogy that has not only captivated global audiences but also earned the admiration of one of cinema's most revered directors.
