[Update: After hearing on Twitter from a number of fans of bothDuneand Zendaya, I have decided to update the lead and the description of her character in this story, as I agree that Chani is much more than a simple “love interest” for Paul Atreides, and I see how our original headline and character description may have come off as reductive. I haven’t readDuneor seen the original film, and was merely relaying the way the character was described to me by sources. I regret any frustration this may have caused true fans and will be more mindful of the way female characters are positioned in future stories.]
After starring oppositeTom HollandinSpider-Man: HomecomingandZac EfroninThe Greatest Showman,Zendayais in talks to play young Freman tribe member Chani oppositeTimothée ChalametinDenis Villeneuve’sDunereboot, multiple sources tell Collider.
Based on the acclaimed novels byFrank Herbert, Legendary’sDuneis a space-faring adventure story that is rich with political intrigue and complex machinations. The story follows Chalamet’s Paul Atreides, the heir apparent of the Atreides family. When they’re sent to rule over the desert planet Arrakis and its valuable spice commodity, their rule is contested by competing noble families, leading to betrayal and ultimately rebellion.
Oscar IsaacandRebecca Fergusonwill co-star as Chalamet’s parents, whileStellan Skarsgårdwill play the film’s antagonist, Baron Harkonnen, andDave Bautistawill play his murderous nephew. Meanwhile, screen legendCharlotte Ramplingwill play the Reverend Mother Mohiam, who can divine intentions, suss out lies and manipulate people’s emotional states on behalf of the emperor.
Should her deal close, Zendaya would play Chani, a strong young woman with whom Paul shares a deep connection. She plays a large part as the story unfolds, and may even take on a larger role in the nextDunefilm – should this one merit a sequel. Remember, Villeneuve is an ambitious filmmaker whoseBlade Runner 2049was also supposed to spark a franchise, to no avail.
This time around, Villeneuve co-wrote the script himself along with Oscar-winnerEric Roth(Forrest Gump) andJon Spaihts(Prometheus). Villeneuve also executive produces the Legendary project withMary ParentandCale Boyter, as well asBrian Herbert,Byron Merritt,Thomas Tull, andKim Herbert.Kevin J. Andersonwill serve as a creative consultant on the project.
Zendaya was one of a handful of non-white actresses to test for the role of Chani. A representative for the actress declined to comment last week and did not respond to a request for comment this week. Zendaya will soon reprise her role of Michelle, aka MJ, inSpider-Man: Far From Home, which swings into theaters on July 5, and her HBO seriesEuphoriawill debut later this year. She’s represented by CAA and Monster Talent Management. Legendary had no comment.
For more of our previous and continuing coverage ofDune, be sure to get caught up with our recent write-ups linked below:
