Denis Villeneuve's Dune had its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in 2021, and the response from those in attendance was highly positive, helping to build anticipation for the movie's theatrical release later that year.
There was a lot of speculation that Dune: Part 2 would follow-suit, but Deadline is reporting that the highly-anticipated sci-fi sequel will not be ready to screen in time for Venice this year.
The film will likely still debut on the festival circuit, however, with New York (September 29 – October 15) a strong possibility.
The first movie concluded with Paul Atreides and his mother, the Lady Jessica, being accepted by the Fremen and taken to their "Sietch." Paul was forced to take Jamis' life in order to prove his worth, and it's a decision that will ultimately inform his destiny.
Part 2's synopsis reads: “Part Two will focus on Paul assembling a massive army of Fremen to combat the ruthless Harkonnen, as he essentially becomes a mythical messiah figure to the inhabitants of Arrakis.”
New cast additions include Austin Butler as Feyd Rautha, Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan, the legendary Christopher Walken as The Emperor, and Lea Seydoux as Lady Margot Fenring. Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Stellan Skarsgård, Josh Brolin, and Dave Bautista will reprise their roles.