Dune to opt for simultaneous release in theatres and on HBO Max

The decision that AT&T took recently to merge WarnerMedia and Discovery was expected to change the release schedule of many projects lined up for the next year. Though some reports had stated otherwise, Dune will be one of the projects that remains unaffected by the merger. The studio is still planning on releasing the movie simultaneously in theaters and on HBO Max.

Directed by Dennis Villeneuve, Dune is the movie adaptation of Frank Herbert’s novel of the same name. This epic sci-fi is set in an alternate universe with multiple planets that now support life. Fans who had been looking forward to this Timothée Chalamet - Zendaya starrer were disappointed when Deadline reported that the film’s release on HBO Max had been cancelled by the studio.

However, WarnerMedia’s head of communications Johanna Fuentes dispelled these rumours on twitter immediately.

“Dune will premiere in theaters and on HBO Max on the same day in the US," read Fuentes’ tweet.

The cancellation of Dune’s day-and-date release was speculated to be a part of the Warner Bros’ deal with Regal Cinemas which plans on returning to the format of opting for a 45-day theatrical window before new releases can be streamed.

Fuentes’ clarification came soon after the news that AT&T is divesting its entertainment assets in a $43 billion deal that will combine WarnerMedia and Discovery. The former’s new leadership under Discovery CEO David Zaslav is expected to be more focused on being talent-friendly.

Warner Bros’ trait of providing a one-month exclusive release window for movies like Wonder Woman 1984, Judas and the Black Messiah, Godzilla vs. Kong and Mortal Kombat will continue with Dune.

Dune also stars Rebecca Fergusson, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin,  Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista and Jason Momoa. The film is expected to release sometime later this year or early in 2022.