Dune is confirmed for a simultaneous release in theaters and on HBO Max, despite conflicting reports stating otherwise. Originally scheduled for release in 2020, the latest reimagining of Frank Hebert's classic sci-fi novel was delayed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. It's now slated to come out in October 2021 and is positioned as one of Warner Bros.' biggest titles of the year. The studio made headlines at the end of 2020 when they controversially announced their entire slate of 2021 films - including Dune - would be released simultaneously on HBO Max the same day as theaters.

Helmed by Blade Runner 2049’s director Denis Villeneuve, this latest reboot boasts an all-star ensemble featuring the likes of Timothée Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Dave Bautista, Zendaya and Jason Momoa. This particular film is intended to be the first of a two-part adaptation based on the seminal 1965 book, harking back to the novel’s origins as a two-part serial first published in Analog magazine. When Warner Bros. first revealed their dual streaming release plans, Villeneuve was one of many filmmakers who voiced his displeasure with the decision and claimed the move would prevent the film from performing financially at the box office.

Related: Matrix 4 vs. Dune: Which Film Will Win 2021's Sci-Fi Movie Battle

When a report from Deadline first suggested the film may see an earlier cinema premiere than its planned October streaming release, Warner Bros. was quick to set the record straight. Taking to her Twitter feed, WarnerMedia Head of Comms Johanna Fuentes shot down those suggestions in short order. Check out the original tweet below:

Whilst Warner Bros. decision to make use of simultaneous streaming and cinema release dates for their 2021 film slate has undoubtedly proven a boon for subscribers of their HBO Max platform, the criticism they have received as a result is not without merit. With the coronavirus pandemic sounding the death knell for many cinema chains worldwide, by offering audiences the opportunity to watch the latest films from the safety and comfort of their own homes, Warner Bros. could be cutting into potential box office revenues. However, Godzilla vs. Kong's strong box office performance (coupled with its record-breaking HBO Max streaming numbers) shows this model can be beneficial for all parties and it's possible for a film to be a hit in theaters and on streaming at the same time.

As convenient as it is for audiences to stream the latest cinema releases from home, nothing beats the traditional big screen experience for serious cinephiles. Especially for something like Dune, which was made with an epic scope, a cinematic outing adds a whole new dimension to viewing it. When Dune finally does release in October, moviegoers will more than likely make an effort to see it in theaters the way it was intended. That said, it's still nice WB is giving people the option to watch Dune on HBO Max if they choose.

Next: Dune: Why The Movie Is In Two Parts (Where Will Part 1 End?)

Source: Johanna Fuentes

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