In surprising news according to Decider, there is an update about HBO Max distribution of Dune. HBO Max will release Denis Villeneuve’s Dune one day early on streaming. Frank Herbert’s heralded epic sci-fi novel is the most anticipated release of the year. Originally slated for a 2020 release, Dune continually became delayed due to the pandemic.
With a stacked cast of Timothee Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, and Zendaya, the film had delays due to an effort to show it in theaters. This became a source of great contention with HBO Max’s decision to release Dune the day it hits theaters. Director Denis Villeneuve has been outwardly critical of this decision. He has stated that Dune should be seen in theaters. Though in recent interviews, has admitted there may be some logic to HBO Max’s decision to release Dune.Â
There is no telling how the HBO Max release will impact the outcome of Dune. The release is only one additional day in advance, though it may deter some viewers from seeing it in theaters. Hopefully, this will only stoke fans’ excitement to see the sandworm on the big screen.
Dune Coming To HBO Max
Kyle MacLachlan in David Lynch’s Dune
Dune has had a legacy stretching back since the book was first published. The novel was wildly successful. The story follows Paul Atreides, the fifteen-year-old son of Duke Leto, and the battle for control over desert planet Arrakis. Arrakis has a commodity that no other planet has. Spice. Spice functions as many different things. But the important thing to know is that whoever controls the spice, controls the universe. Once Paul encounters the people of Arrakis, he realizes there is much more at stake.Â
HBO Max and Dune’s partnership is not the first time the title came with controversy. David Lynch also adapted the book in a critical failure starring Kyle MacLachlan. David Lynch was famously unhappy with the result. The film was known for glossing over key details of the book. Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation looks to be far more faithful.
Denis Villeneuve is most famous for Blade Runner 2049 alongside Dune. He has also directed beautiful visuals in Arrival and Sicario. This is a step up for Denis Villeneuve and should prove to be his best achievement yet. Villeneuve hopes that if the film does well, he will be able to make a sequel as the film only covers the first half of the novel. Audiences finally get to see Dune in theaters on October 22. HBO Max will release Dune on October 21.Â
