Dune 2 has got an ideal early review from Christopher Nolan as he compares it to The Empire Strikes Back

Feb. 5, 2024



The sequel gets high praise

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Dune 2has got a glowing early reaction from Christopher Nolan. TheOppenheimerdirector joined Denis Villeneuve to discuss the upcoming sequel and compared it to Star Wars Episode V, The Empire Strikes Back.

“For me, I don’t think it says too much to say that ifDune: Part Onewas Star Wars, this to me is very much The Empire Strikes Back, which is my favorite of the Star Wars films,” Nolan shares in a clip taken by theRaiders of the Lost Podcast. “I just think it’s an incredibly exciting expansion of all of the things you introduce in the first one.” Villeneuve is clearly bowled over by the comparison, calling it a “massive compliment” in return.

The pair were speaking at a screening ofTenet, which featured a special early look at the Dune sequel ahead of its March 1 release date. The second film in the franchise brings Timothée Chalamet back as Paul Atreides, who unites with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen to enact revenge on those who killed his father and destroyed his family.

Dune 2 is thecover of the latest issue of Total Film magazine, which featuresexclusive images from the sequel, as well as unparalleled access to the cast. Among the reveals, new cast memberAustin Butler shared some insight into the dangerous allure of his villain Feyd-RauthaandChalamet opened up about filming the much-discussed sandworm-riding scene.

Check out a sneak peek at the feature below, whichcan be purchased now.

Sign up for the Total Film Newsletter

Sign up for the Total Film Newsletter

Bringing all the latest movie news, features, and reviews to your inbox

I’m the Deputy Entertainment Editor here at GamesRadar+, covering TV and film for the Total Film and SFX sections online. I previously worked as a Senior Showbiz Reporter and SEO TV reporter at Express Online for three years. I’ve also written for The Resident magazines and Amateur Photographer, before specializing in entertainment.

On its 10th anniversary, Christopher Nolan reflects on Interstellar’s continued popularity after watching it for the first time in a decade: “It was a very special thing to see”

Netflix’s new #1 movie is a sci-fi thriller that stars Megan Fox as an AI robot - and it has a pretty divisive Rotten Tomatoes score