Following the monumental success of “Oppenheimer” at the Oscars, director Denis Villeneuve is setting his sights on another ambitious project: a nuclear war movie based on Annie Jacobsen’s book.
Legendary Entertainment has secured the rights to Jacobsen’s nonfiction masterpiece, “Nuclear War: A Scenario,” in a deal worth $500,000 against $1.5 million. The book, which has gained significant traction on the New York Times bestseller lists, delves into a hypothetical nuclear conflict, drawing insights from interviews with military and civilian experts deeply involved in nuclear weapons development and strategy.
While Villeneuve’s involvement in the adaptation is not yet confirmed, there’s a strong expectation that he will helm the project once he completes “Dune: Messiah.” The highly anticipated “Dune: Part Two” recently soared to the top as the highest-grossing film of the year, raking in a staggering $637 million worldwide.
However, Villeneuve’s future with the “Dune” franchise remains uncertain. While he hints at the possibility of returning for a third installment, details are yet to be finalized. Nonetheless, Villeneuve’s dedication to the “Dune” universe is evident, with plans for a potential trilogy already in motion.
In addition to the cinematic realm, the “Dune” universe is expanding across various mediums. Warner Bros. Discovery is developing a TV series, while “Dune: Awakening” is poised to make its debut in the gaming industry.
As Villeneuve continues to captivate audiences with his visionary storytelling, anticipation for his next project, whether it’s a third “Dune” film or the adaptation of Jacobsen’s compelling exploration of nuclear warfare, remains palpable.
