Oscar-winning actor Christopher Walken will play the mighty emperor of the observable universe Shaddam IV in the sequel to Dunes, that Denis Villeneuve will begin filming this summer in Hungary. The film is set to release in theaters on October 20, 2023.
At age 79, he’s the latest big-name newcomer to join the sci-fi saga. Last month, the acquisition of Florence Pugh (Midsummer) and Austin Butler (Elvis) confirmed. They will act as the Emperor’s son, Princess Irulan, and Feyd-Rautha, Baron Harkonnen’s successor.
Shaddam IV is a major character in the cycle of Frank Herbert’s novels. Although not seen in the first film, he ordered House Atreides to settle on the desert planet Arrakis – dubbed Dunes -, a seemingly noble mission that quickly turns into a poisonous gift.
The coming of a messiah
Sa Dune: Part Twothe protagonist Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), supported by his mother Dame Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), will help the rebel people of Fremen form an army to fight Harkonnen House, which has invaded their territory.
Paul is essentially a messianic and mythological figure in the eyes of the natives of Arrakis in the second part of the legend, the production says.
Released last October Dunes is one of the highest grossing films of 2021, with a total gross total of half a billion Canadian dollars worldwide.
Earlier this year, the Quebec filmmaker’s mega-production won six statuettes (out of 10 nominations) at the Oscars, including those for best original music and best cinematography.
Source: Radio-Canada