The Sci-Fi Legend Shows Respect
Steven Spielberg’s name is almost synonymous with science fiction. From classics like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Close Encounters of the Third Kind to more recent projects such as Ready Player One, Spielberg’s work helped shape the genre for generations. He’s also about to return to sci-fi with his own new film, the highly anticipated and still shrouded-in-mystery Disclosure Day, set for release this June.
But Spielberg’s appreciation isn’t reserved for his own movies. He’s been outspoken about his admiration for a fellow director’s work—specifically, a major science fiction saga that’s captured global attention.
Spielberg’s Favorite: Dune—Part Two
In an interview with Empire magazine, Spielberg spoke candidly about his favorite sci-fi films:
“Lately, I’ve loved the Dune films. They’re among my all-time favorite science fiction movies, not just in recent years but ever. Especially the second part. I think the second film is the best Denis has ever directed. I can’t wait to see the third. I’m sure he’ll let me see it before the public. I’m a big fan.”
Praise doesn’t get much higher—especially coming from Spielberg himself. Rather than naming one of his own works, Spielberg called Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two his favorite, saying it sets a new bar for the genre.
Villeneuve’s Roots in Cinema
For Denis Villeneuve, Spielberg’s recognition means even more given his influences. Villeneuve has said his passion for cinema grew from childhood viewings of Close Encounters of the Third Kind and 2001: A Space Odyssey—movies he described as having a huge impact on him. During an event hosted by the Directors’ Guild of America in 2024, Spielberg himself spoke directly to Villeneuve about a memorable moment in Dune: Part Two:
“The scene where Paul Atreides rides the sandworm in Dune 2 was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. Ever. You made the desert look liquid!”
The Journey Continues
Looking ahead, the next installment—Dune: Part Three—is set to be released on December 16, 2026. This will reportedly be Denis Villeneuve’s final chapter in the series and is expected to conclude Paul Atreides’s story. Spielberg may well be among the first to see it, and anticipation among fans is already mounting. If Spielberg’s track record as a judge of sci-fi classics is any indication, Dune’s legacy is likely to grow even further later this year.
