Dune has easily been one of 2020’s most highly-anticipated new films, but it looks like fans will have to wait another year to visit Arrakis. Collider is reporting that Warner Bros. has delayed Dune to October 1, 2021.
The film was originally supposed to hit theaters on December 18. After WB dropped the first teaser trailer last month, expectations rose for the film. Sadly, not even the Kwisatz Haderach can outwit the COVID-19 outbreak. Although movie theaters began re-opening in late August, recent box office numbers continue to show that most moviegoers won’t feel safe returning to theaters until a coronavirus vaccine is available. Even major theater chains are aware of this trend. Regal recently announced (via NPR) that it will temporarily close 536 locations later this week.
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Dune is now set to open on the same day as Matt Reeves’ The Batman. It seems highly unusual that Warner Bros. will release two high profile films during the same weekend. But perhaps this is a sign that the studio intends to delay The Batman for a second time. Production on Reeves’ film recently got back underway after actor Robert Pattinson had his own brush with COVID-19.
Fortunately, it sounds like director Denis Villeneuve was supportive of the studio’s decision. He reportedly felt that the best way to see the film is in theaters rather than on VOD platforms. Considering what we’ve seen of the movie so far, it’s hard to disagree.
What are your thoughts on WB’s decision to postpone Dune’s release date? Let us know in the comments down below!
Recommended Reading: Dune (Penguin Galaxy)
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