Cast Additions for "Dune 3: Messiah"
We could be in for a time jump in the story
Work on "Dune 3", officially titled "Dune: Messiah", is progressing. According to the well-connected industry portal Nexus Point News, two new actors are joining the film's cast – and this raises several questions about the plot.
The talk is of Nakoa-Wolf Momoa and Ida Brooke, who will take on the roles of Leto II and Ghanima – the twin children of Paul Atreides and Chani. In the original novel, these characters have just been born. However, since the actors are noticeably older, we may be in for a significant time jump. Alternatively, they could also appear in a vision of Paul's future, similar to his sister Alia in "Dune: Part Two". By the way, if the name Nakoa-Wolf Momoa caught your attention, it's because he is actually the son of Jason Momoa, who plays Duncan Idaho.
The story of "Dune: Messiah" will be very different from its predecessors: instead of epic action sequences, it is more about intrigue and moral themes. Denis Villeneuve, who is bringing his "Dune" saga to a close with Part 3, will be directing again. And, of course, we will be seeing Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Jason Momoa, as well as Anya Taylor-Joy. "The Batman" star Robert Pattinson is currently in talks for the role of the villain Scytale. Filming is scheduled to begin in summer 2025, with a planned theatrical release date of December 18, 2026. A familiar name is also back to compose the soundtrack: none other than Hans Zimmer!
The Greatest Science Fiction Franchises of All Time – From "Dune" to "Star Wars"
Science fiction is one of the most popular genres in modern pop culture. Few other genres manage to combine philosophical questions, societal utopias, and breathtaking action so impressively. Over the decades, countless sci-fi franchises have emerged – shaping entire generations. Some of them have even become cult classics. Let's take a look at the greatest and most influential science fiction franchises of all time – starting with one of the genre's most important works: "Dune".
Dune
Frank Herbert's "Dune" (1965) is more than just a novel – it's an entire universe. The story of young Paul Atreides, who becomes a mythical figure on the desert planet Arrakis, weaves together politics, ecology, religion, and philosophy with a depth rarely seen in science fiction. The original book series consists of six volumes written by Herbert himself and was later continued by his son Brian Herbert in collaboration with Kevin J. Anderson.
"Dune" continues to influence countless works and authors to this day. The recent film adaptations by Denis Villeneuve have reignited interest in this complex epic and reached a global audience of millions. Therefore, "Dune" is not only a classic – it's also a contemporary phenomenon.
Star Wars: The Galactic Saga
When it comes to sci-fi cult classics, there's no getting around "Star Wars". Since George Lucas launched the franchise in 1977 with "A New Hope" (Episode IV), "Star Wars" has become much more than just a film series. With nine episodes in the Skywalker Saga, spin-offs like "Rogue One" and "The Mandalorian", countless novels, comics, and games, "Star Wars" has grown into a multimedia universe. The series blends classic science fiction with fantasy elements like the Force, political intrigue, and epic space battles. What's especially remarkable is the cross-generational fascination "Star Wars" holds – truly a cultural phenomenon.
Star Trek: The Future of Mankind
While "Star Wars" is often seen as "space fantasy," "Star Trek" is the epitome of utopian science fiction. Since 1966, the crew of the Enterprise has explored the universe across various series and movies, always with a humanistic approach: science, diplomacy, and cooperation take center stage. With series like "The Next Generation", "Deep Space Nine", "Voyager", and currently "Strange New Worlds" and "Picard", "Star Trek" has continuously reinvented itself – tackling ethical, political, and social issues that remain highly relevant today. No other franchise has inspired as many scientists and engineers.
The Expanse: Political Thriller in Space
Based on the novel series by James S. A. Corey (a pen name for Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck), "The Expanse" is one of the newer yet highly respected science fiction franchises. The story begins in a colonized solar system where political tensions simmer between Earth, Mars, and the asteroid belt. "The Expanse" stands out for its scientific accuracy, believable characters, and political complexity. The TV series of the same name (2015–2022) was praised by critics and fans alike and is considered one of the best sci-fi adaptations in recent years.
Foundation: The Vision of Isaac Asimov
Isaac Asimov's "Foundation" series is a milestone in science fiction literature. The central idea: a science called psychohistory can predict and potentially prevent the collapse of a galactic empire. The books explore the decline of civilizations, the impact of knowledge, and the role of individuals in history. Though long considered "unfilmable," Apple TV+ has made an ambitious attempt to bring Asimov's epic vision to life with the "Foundation" series.
Conclusion
From the philosophical depths of "Dune" and the intergalactic adventures of "Star Wars" to the realistic politics of "The Expanse": science fiction franchises offer more than just entertainment. They reflect our times, serve as thought experiments about our future and tell captivating stories that stay with us long after the credits roll.
