Dune 2 is defined as a pleasure for all your senses. Not every film can be described like this. But after all, not every film is a Dune. Adapted from the Frank Herbert’s sci-fi classic of the same name, the Denis Villeneuve directorial is already expected to be the best film of the year, writing its name on multiple Oscars already. The sequel has been named as Villeneuve’s magnum opus, but it is not easy to make a film like this. To make a film as visually enthralling as Dune: Part Two takes a lot of monetary investment. These visuals aren’t made for cheap. So, how much did the Zendaya starrer cost to make? Let’s find out.
Dune 2 Is Cheaper Than Expected!
Last year, multiple industry reports claimed that the budget of Dune 2 was around $185-190 million. The reports also said that the film may run over budget and cross the $200 million mark. However, these reports were soon proven to be untrue as the sequel’s budget has been revealed to be $122 million! What happened? Are you surprised? Does the number seem small to you?
I understand, you feel like a film that looks as good as Dune 2 cannot be made in $122 million. You might’ve expected the budget to be around $200-250 million since, all the spectacle studio films cost around that number. But despite its massive scale, Dune 2 costs only $122 million, much less than its predecessor’s $165 million. But, how is it possible?
Well, I don’t know for sure but even the first film’s budget was under scrutiny because many cast and crew members claimed that the film was only made in $130 million. However, the official figure remained $165 million. No one has stepped forward and denied this new budget so for now Dune 2 seems like a cheap affair. Although, it still boggles my mind that such an ensemble cast and visual and practical effects have been achieved in just $122 million.
If early box office projections are to be believed then Dune 2 might recover this budget in its opening weekend itself. The sequel is projected to earn $65 million+ domestically in its opening weekend, which is 59%-83% higher than the opening of Dune back in 2021 ($41M) that went onto gross $402 worldwide (now $433 million). Then again, some analysts think Dune: Part Two has a shot at $75M-$80M+.
This is already a huge number that will only go higher when you factor in the numerous blossoming international markets. We don’t have a projection for it yet but I think we’re at least looking at a $150 million opening.
Dune 2 adds even more faces into the fold, including Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan, Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha, Christopher Walken as Shaddam IV, Léa Seydoux as Lady Margot and Anya Taylor Joy as Alia Atreides. Dune: Part One is available for streaming on HBO Max or Amazon Prime Video depending on the region where you live.
Dune: Part Two will now exclusively premiere in theatres on March 15th, 2024.
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