Summary:
- Tim Blake Nelson expressed his disappointment in being cut from Dune: Part Two in an interview with MovieWeb.
- The role Nelson was offered remains a secret, but people suspect it was Count Hasimir Fenring, Bene Gesserit Margot Fenring’s husband.
- Despite being disheartened, Nelson insisted that his relationship with director Denis Villeneuve remained well, and is open to working again with him in the future.
Despite Dune: Part Two’s acclaim and successful box office launch, not everyone is happy with the outcome of the movie. Tim Blake Nelson included.
Tim Blake Nelson recently opened up about his departure from the much-anticipated “Dune: Part Two,” a move that has left him notably disheartened. Denis Villeneuve‘s sequel to his science fiction masterpiece has finally hit theaters, with Timothée Chalamet’s Paul Atreides joining forces with the Fremen in a quest for revenge for his father.
In a candid chat with MovieWeb, Nelson shared his feelings on being edged out of the final cut of “Dune: Part Two.” While details of his intended role remain under wraps, Nelson recounted his enjoyment in filming his scenes, only for them to be axed due to the film’s length.
“I don’t think I’m at liberty to say what the scene was. I’d leave that to Denis [Villeneuve] if he wants to talk about it. I had a great time over there shooting it. And then he had to cut it because he thought the movie was too long.”
“And I am heartbroken over that, but there’s no hard feelings. I loved it, and I can’t wait to do something else with him and we certainly plan to do that.” Nelson stated, expressing both his discontent and understanding of the decision. He remains hopeful about collaborating with Villeneuve again, hinting at future projects together.
Though Nelson’s exact role was never officially revealed, speculation abounds that he was cast as Count Hasimir Fenring, a significant character in the “Dune” saga known for his close friendship with Emperor Shaddam IV and formidable fighting prowess.
This theory is partly based on the inclusion of Fenring’s wife, Bene Gesserit Lady Margot Fenring, portrayed by Léa Seydoux, in the sequel. Yet, Nelson’s character, potentially Fenring, was conspicuously absent from the film, sparking curiosity among fans.
Interestingly, Nelson wasn’t the only character to face the cutting room floor. Thufir Hawat, played by Stephen McKinley Henderson, also didn’t make the final cut, as Villeneuve aimed to sharpen the film’s focus on the Bene Gesserit sisterhood. This narrative choice led to both Henderson and Nelson being sidelined, though they were both acknowledged in the film’s credits.
Despite these changes, Nelson’s gracious response showcases his professionalism and eagerness to work with Villeneuve, again leaving the door open for their paths to cross again. Especially, considering how Hawat and Fenring are still prominent characters in the novels, there’s still a chance that both Nelson and Henderson can get to star in the acclaimed franchise in the future.
