Josh Brolin has confirmed that Linus Sandgren is stepping in as cinematographer for Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Three, replacing Greig Fraser, who shot the first two films. The change comes as Fraser is occupied with filming Sam Mendes’ upcoming Beatles biopics, a major project that spans four movies and is expected to last two years.
Brolin shared this insight during an appearance on Kevin McCarthy’s YouTube podcast On Films With Kevin McCarthy, explaining that Fraser’s commitment to Mendes‘ ambitious Beatles series prevented him from returning to the Dune franchise.
The Impact of Sam Mendes’ Beatles Biopics on Industry Talent Availability
Greig Fraser, an Oscar-winning cinematographer recognized for his work on the first Dune film as well as other notable projects, had to prioritize Sam Mendes’ Beatles films. This series centers on dramatizing the lives of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, with lead roles played by Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan, and Joseph Quinn.
Fraser’s departure led Villeneuve to bring Linus Sandgren on board, known for his Oscar-winning work on La La Land and recent cinematography on the film Jay Kelly. Brolin stressed the importance of trust and compatibility between Villeneuve and his director of photography, highlighting Villeneuve’s exacting standards.
“It’s an interesting thing because I know [Greig Fraser] is doing Sam Mendes’ Beatles thing, the four Beatles movies. So, that’s a huge thing, that takes two years, and so he wasn’t able to do it. But you know [Denis Villeneuve] is such a close friend, you’re not going to hire someone you don’t jive with and isn’t going to do an amazing job,” —Josh Brolin, Actor
Current Cast and Production Details for Dune: Part Three
Dune: Part Three is currently filming with a diverse and high-profile cast. Returning actors include Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Zendaya, Javier Bardem, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, and Jason Momoa, who reprises his role as Duncan Idaho. Anya Taylor-Joy also returns as Alia Atreides, the adult sister of Paul Atreides.
The newest additions to the ensemble include Robert Pattinson, cast as a shapeshifting villain named Scytale, a Tleilaxu Face Dancer. Additionally, the twin children of Paul and Chani—Empress Ghanima Atreides and God Emperor Leto Atreides II—are portrayed by Ida Brooke and Nakoa-Wolf Momoa respectively.
Release Schedule and Competitive Landscape
The film’s release is planned by Warner Bros. for December 18, 2026, with the sequel expected to clash at the box office against Marvel’s anticipated Avengers: Doomsday. Industry observers anticipate that one of these major releases may adjust its date to avoid direct competition.
Significance of the Cinematography Shift and Upcoming Expectations
The replacement of Greig Fraser with Linus Sandgren on Dune: Part Three reflects the growing demands on top-tier cinematographers in today’s competitive production environment. Fraser’s involvement in Sam Mendes’ Beatles biopics—a significant multi-film project—underscores the high-profile nature of both ventures. Villeneuve’s choice of Sandgren signals confidence that the final Dune chapter will maintain its distinct visual style and quality.
As Sam Mendes continues producing his extensive Beatles series, stakeholders and audiences will be watching both projects closely, given the talented casts and crews involved. The collaboration across these major film productions illustrates the interconnected nature of contemporary filmmaking and scheduling challenges.
