Dune: Part Three Builds Hype With New Chalamet Images, Record Advance Sales

New images of Timothée Chalamet as Paul Atreides have offered a glimpse of the actor’s transformed appearance in ‘Dune: Part Three’, as Denis Villeneuve’s highly anticipated science-fiction epic sets advance ticket sales records ahead of its December release.

The exclusive photographs featured in Empire magazine’s December issue show Chalamet in a textured brown outfit against a dark backdrop, sporting an intense, battle-worn appearance that reflects the evolution of his character.

The film has already generated significant interest among moviegoers. London’s BFI IMAX sold 33,000 advance tickets within 24 hours, generating more than £880,000 in presales and setting a new first-day record for the venue. The film surpassed the previous record held by Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, which generated approximately £750,000 during its first 24 hours of advance sales. The figures relate to a single cinema rather than the wider UK market.

Directed by Villeneuve, the third instalment draws inspiration from Dune Messiah, the second novel in Frank Herbert’s science-fiction series, and concludes the filmmaker’s cinematic trilogy.

The story unfolds nearly two decades after the events of Dune: Part Two, with Paul now ruling the Imperium as Emperor. His growing power comes at a significant cost, as resistance builds against his leadership and he confronts the consequences of his reign. The narrative also explores his relationship with Chani and the threats surrounding his rule.

Chalamet returns alongside Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Rebecca Ferguson, Anya Taylor-Joy, Jason Momoa and Javier Bardem. Robert Pattinson joins the franchise in a new role, adding another prominent name to the ensemble.

The film reunites Villeneuve with screenwriter Brian K. Vaughan, with the director adapting Herbert’s work for the concluding chapter.

Dune: Part Three is scheduled to release in cinemas and IMAX on December 18, 2026, with international releases beginning December 16. The BFI IMAX has also scheduled special 70mm preview screenings ahead of the wider release.