The newly released trailer for Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Three indicates substantial alterations from Frank Herbert's original novels. The trailer teases a significant passage of time since the events of Dune: Part Two, with Paul Atreides having reigned as the Padishah Emperor and engaged in widespread galactic conquest. Jason Momoa's Duncan Idaho character remarks that Paul has "conquered the galaxy" and "destroyed thousands of worlds."
Princess Irulan, portrayed by Florence Pugh, and a new character played by Robert Pattinson appear to be plotting against Paul's regime. Pattinson's character states, "I found someone," with the trailer cutting to Zendaya as Chani, suggesting her involvement in an attempted coup. The trailer also features large-scale battles and sandworms, elements characteristic of the Dune saga.
The film is being marketed as the "epic conclusion" to the narrative, a departure from the book Dune Messiah, which was not the end of the series; Frank Herbert wrote four subsequent novels. Without adapting Dune Messiah and Children of Dune, the film may not fully resolve Paul's story without introducing changes.
Another notable divergence is Chani's seemingly expanded role. Dune: Part Two established a rift between Paul and Chani due to his political marriage to Princess Irulan, a development not present in the novel. The third film appears to continue this thread, potentially placing Chani in an antagonistic position against her former partner.
Further adjustments are indicated by the trailer's description, which places Dune: Part Three nearly two decades after the previous film, compared to the 12-year gap in the book. The trailer also depicts wars and conflicts from this interim period that are only alluded to in the novel, suggesting a more direct portrayal of Paul's Holy War.
Villeneuve and co-screenwriter Brian K. Vaughan face the challenge of adapting the story in a way that appeals to both general audiences and devoted fans of the source material. The film is scheduled for release on December 18. 
