Denis Villeneuve has given audiences an early glimpse of his next sci-fi epic Dune 3, and the reactions are already explosive. The first footage is intense, emotional, and very different from what came before.
The first seven minutes of Dune: Part Three were screened at CinemaCon, offering a powerful start to the final chapter. The sequence reportedly focuses on a large-scale battle led by Stilgar, played by Javier Bardem, as Fremen warriors charge into combat. Villeneuve described the film as a “thriller” and said he wanted to try something new rather than repeat himself (via USA Today).
The director also shared that this installment is “more intense and definitely more emotional” than the earlier films. The story moves forward by 17 years and is based on Dune Messiah, continuing Paul Atreides’ complicated journey. Timothée Chalamet explained that Paul has changed deeply, saying he has “become his worst vision” and is now trying to hold on to the parts of himself that still matter.
Another major reveal was the return of Jason Momoa, but in a different form. He plays Hayt, a character created using cells from Duncan Idaho. Momoa described the role as a kind of test for Paul. “I am sent as a gift to Paul, to see how he deals with someone he’s never seen before,” Mamoa shared. Meanwhile, Zendaya also returns, continuing her role as Chani in the evolving narrative.
First seven minutes of DUNE: PART THREE features Stilgar leading his chanting warriors onto a rainy planet, to devastation. Played like an intergalactic SAVING PRIVATE RYAN. You felt it in your bones. Hate judging a film based on a few minutes, but “Lisan al-Gaib.” #CinemaCon
— Barry Hertz (@HertzBarry) April 15, 2026
Early reactions from viewers have been overwhelmingly positive. Some compared the opening to Saving Private Ryan, calling it an “intergalactic” version of its iconic war scenes. Critic John Rocha said, “I am speechless for what is coming,” while another warned that “no one is ready.”
OMG!!! THEY JUST SHOWED US THE FIRST SEVEN MINUTES OF #Dune PART THREE AND I AM SPEECHLESS FOR WHAT IS COMING!
This is officially a GREAT #CinemaCon now! GOD. DAMN. That was amazing.
This is gonna be a helluva year for movies, y’all. STRAP IN!! pic.twitter.com/0jpFlhWaq3
— John Rocha (@TheRochaSays) April 15, 2026
Insider Jeff Sneider remarked that “Nolan might even have something to fear this awards season.”
With a planned release on Dec. 18, the film is shaping up to close the trilogy on a massive scale. If early reactions hold true, this could be one of the most talked-about releases of the year.
