The buzz around Zendaya’s seemingly limited appearance in the first installment of Denis Villeneuve’s Dune left fans yearning for more. Despite being prominently featured in promotions, her role as Chani in the initial film left audiences wanting, with only a brief seven minutes of screen time. However, with the success of Dune at the Oscars and the box office, fans can now anticipate a more substantial presence of Zendaya’s character in the upcoming sequel, Dune: Part Two.
A recent behind-the-scenes video shared on the official Dune TikTok account provides a glimpse into Zendaya’s extended involvement in Dune: Part Two. In the 30-second clip, the Euphoria star is seen sharing light moments on set with co-stars, including Timothée Chalamet. Unlike her limited appearances in the first film, the sequel promises an amplified role for Chani, a flesh-and-blood Fremen woman ready to take part in Arrakis’ impending war against Emperor Shaddam IV and the Harkonnens.
In the original Dune narrative, Chani and the protagonist, played by Chalamet, develop a romantic connection, setting the stage for a more intricate storyline in the sequel. Zendaya’s expanded screen presence aligns with the deeper exploration of their characters’ relationship in the 1965 novel by Frank Herbert.
The TikTok video showcases Zendaya navigating the film’s meticulously crafted practical sets, adorned in intricately detailed costumes by designers Jacqueline West and Bob Morgan, earning them an Oscar nomination. Zendaya expresses her awe in the clip, stating:
“Being on these sets with these incredibly talented people surpasses any dream I’ve ever had. We joke, we just have a lot of fun. There are so many practical sets. I step into a set where I already feel like I’m on a different planet. It’s so special what we’re doing.”
Timothée Chalamet also shares his enthusiasm for the extended collaboration with Zendaya in the sequel. Speaking at CCXP, he emphasized the enriched storyline between Paul and Chani, promising fans “the full Chani effect” in the upcoming movie. He anticipates an epic adventure with more sandworms, providing a deeper exploration of the characters and their evolving connection.
As the anticipation builds, moviegoers can witness Zendaya’s expanded and pivotal role when Dune: Part Two graces the big screen on Friday, March 1, 2024, marking a new chapter in the sci-fi saga. Stay tuned for an unforgettable Arrakis-set adventure
