Interview: Oscar Nominated Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve Discusses His Epic Vision for ‘Dune’

In relatively short order, Denis Villeneuve has become a truly singular filmmaker. The director and sometimes writer is not just a prestige auteur, but someone working at the top end of science fiction as well. Usually, it’s an either or proposition. So, Villeneuve is doing something rather unique. In particular, Dune has merged a potential new franchise starter with an Academy Award player. One of the most nominated films by the Oscars this year, Dune stands out from the pack. Last week, I got the chance to hop on Zoom and talk to him about this success story. Today, you can see Villeneuve and I in conversation about the movie.

Below, you can see my chat with Villeneuve. This is our newest Dune discussion to share, too. Previously, as you may reckon, we’ve spoken to cinematographer Greig Fraser (here), composer Hans Zimmer (here), editor Joe Walker (here), as well as stars Oscar Isaac (here) and Rebecca Ferguson (here). Talking to the filmmaker, just two days after the Oscar nominations were announced, it was clear just how proud of it he was. You could also tell that as tired as he is, Villeneuve is very eager to get the second part of this story told. Considering how talented he is and how much he’s able to execute his visions, that’s an exciting prospect.

Back in my review out of the Toronto International Film Festival, I had this to say about Villeneuve’s work making Dune:

Denis Villeneuve was passionate about this and it shows. Not just directing but co-writing with Eric Roth and Jon Spaihts, Villeneuve wants to capture your imagination at all turns. Having composer Hans Zimmer working overtime to immerse you in the sounds of Dune doesn’t hurt, nor does the awe-inspiring visuals from cinematographer Greig Fraser. The editing from Joe Walker keeps you focused in all of the right places. The editing is where this easily could have crumbled, so he deserves amble credit. Villeneuve the director is really knocking it out of the park here. 

Here now is my interview with Dune co-writer/director Denis Villeneuve. Enjoy:

Dune is currently nominated for ten Academy Awards and is available to watch everywhere!