Steven Spielberg Calls Denis Villeneuve’s Dune Movies Peak Science-Fiction

Steven Spielberg has praised Denis Villeneuve’s adaptations of the Dune series, ranking the films among his favorite science-fiction movies of all time.

Speaking to Empire magazine on April 6, 2026, the director expressed significant admiration for the French-Canadian filmmaker’s approach to Frank Herbert’s classic novels.

Spielberg specifically highlighted the second installment of the franchise, stating that he believes Dune: Part Two is the best movie Denis Villeneuve has ever produced.

Anticipation for Dune: Part Three

The praise comes as Villeneuve prepares to release Dune: Part Three later in 2026. This upcoming film is based on Herbert’s Dune Messiah.

Spielberg expressed a strong desire to see the third film and indicated he expects Villeneuve to provide him with an early screening.

Recently, I’ve loved the ‘Dune’ movies. They are among my favorite science-fiction movies, not just recently, but of all time. Especially the second film. I think [Part Two] is the best movie Denis has ever made. Wait to see the third one. I’m sure he’ll show it to me early. I’m such a fan of his.

Steven Spielberg via Empire

Spielberg’s Current Projects and Genre Focus

The comments were made as Spielberg begins the press tour for his own return to the science-fiction genre. He is set to release a film titled Disclosure Day this summer.

In addition to his thoughts on science fiction, Spielberg mentioned that the film Weapons had already satisfied his interest in the horror genre.

The endorsement is noted as significant given Spielberg’s history in the industry, having directed foundational science-fiction and blockbuster films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Jaws.