Denis Villeneuve has stated that cellphones are prohibited on the set of his upcoming project, Dune Messiah, a decision driven by his belief that technology can be addictive. He emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from screens to create an immersive cinematic experience for both the crew and the audience. Villeneuve likened filmmaking to other art forms, explaining that just as artists must be focused on their work, filmmakers need their teams to be fully present and engaged without distractions. He asserts that the presence of cellphones can hinder this process, making it imperative to maintain a focused environment on set.
In a broader discussion on technology, Villeneuve shared that the constant access to information and media can feel overwhelming and likened it to a drug. He expressed a strong desire to disconnect from this digital saturation, advocating for a fresh perspective away from screens.
Villeneuve gained critical acclaim for his adaptations of Frank Herbert’s Dune, with the first film released in 2021 and the upcoming second part, both of which collectively grossed over $1.12 billion and earned several Oscars. He plans to start filming the third installment, based on Herbert’s 1969 novel Dune Messiah, around late 2025 or 2026. Meanwhile, the Dune universe continues to expand with a prequel series, Dune: Prophecy, airing on HBO and streaming on Max.