Dune 2 in Oscar race after Hans Zimmer’s breathtaking and epic score returns to competition

Dune 2 is back in the running for an Oscar for best original score after being previously disqualified, with Warner Bros. announcing Hans Zimmer's entry ahead of the December 17 nominations.

When the sequel to Denis Villeneuve’s critically acclaimed Dune was released in 2021, it has been a constant source of excitement for audiences and critics alike, with performances from Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Javier Bardem, and other big-name stars. The highly anticipated sequel, Dune 2, has been met with positive reviews from fans and audiences alike, with positive reviews for the film’s quality and its follow-up to the first film.

As reported by Variety, the film is set to enter the Oscars, but what came as a shock was the announcement that the film will be entering the Best Original Score category, after previously being disqualified. The change comes after Warner Bros. officially announced that the category will be considering Zimmer’s score again and will be entered into the upcoming Oscars.

The decision comes ahead of the December 17 announcement of the nominees. This is a testament to the importance of the film’s score, which plays an integral part in the unforgettable viewing experience.

Read Also: “Smile 2” Has Grossed Over $110 Million In 3 Weeks, Continuing Its Horror Box Office Success

Why was this decision made?

Dune: Part Two in Oscar contention after Hans Zimmer's score returns to competition
Warner Bros. Pictures

The question then becomes, why was a film that was considered eligible for the Oscars initially disqualified, before Warner Bros. decided to send Zimmer’s score back into the competition? According to industry sources, there was initially uncertainty about the criteria for the film’s score and the approach that the Oscars would take to Zimmer’s work.

Zimmer is a widely recognized composer in the film industry, particularly for his work that evokes a sense of excitement and depth. He played a key role in creating the atmosphere of Dune: Part One and Part Two through his use of a variety of instruments and harmonies that took into account the vastness of the film’s universe. With a unique and energetic blend of musical styles, Zimmer was able to perfectly convey the emotions and tension of the film.

Read Also: The Release Date Changes For “Mickey 17” And How They Affect Fans And The Industry

Industry and Criticism

Dune: Part Two in Oscar
Warner Bros. Pictures

Dune: Part Two received overwhelmingly positive reviews after audiences had the chance to watch the full film. The film was praised for its beautiful visuals and grand narrative, but another aspect that was highlighted in the reviews was the score, which added intensity and suspense to the story. The film uses music effectively to reflect the conflicts between its characters and the world they face.

With Warner Bros. deciding to re-enter Zimmer’s score for the Oscars despite initial talk of disqualification, it seems likely that it will be reconsidered this year, especially given the importance of the film’s music and the critical consensus that Zimmer did a great job.

With that said, Dune: Part Two could be one of the films that could be nominated for an Oscar this year, especially in terms of its score, which is one of the most anticipated topics right now.

Source: Variety