It’s been over two years since Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part One spiced up the big screen, so we really don’t blame you if you’ve forgotten virtually everything that happened in it. Luckily, though, we’re here to provide a sandworm-sized recap ahead of Part Two. Aren’t we nice?
From significant plot points in the first film to new and returning stars for the sequel, here’s everything you need to know before being swallowed up by Dune: Part Two.
What happened in Dune: Part One?
A lot, so we’ll keep this short and sweet. In a nutshell, House Atreides (that’s the good guys) took control of Arrakis (yes, the sandy planet), but they were then attacked by House Harkonnen (those hairless pasty people). Paul’s dad Duke Leto Atreides (Oscar Isaac) was killed, as was his combat teacher Duncan Idaho (Jason Momoa). Sad face.
Due to him being the main character and also probably the chosen one, Paul was able to escape the attack and join up with Chani (Zendaya) and the Fremen on Arrakis. Happy face.
How does that set up Dune: Part Two?
Without going into spoiler territory, all you need to know is this: Paul is now plotting his revenge, learning the ways of the desert, and developing his prophetic abilities. And, you know, understandably falling in love with Zendaya.
Is Paul really the messiah, or just a very talented boy? Either way, it seems he’s now got a bit of a following.
Who stars in Dune: Part Two?
Unless you’ve literally been living in a desert for the past few years, you’re probably aware that Timothée Chalamet stars as Paul Atreides. And we’ve already mentioned Zendaya, who has a much bigger role this time around.
Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, Dave Bautista, and Stellen Skarsgård are all back, too. But we’re not done yet! There are also a bunch of newcomers, including stupidly famous people like Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, Léa Seydoux, and Christopher Walken. And no, none of them are playing sandworms.