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Dune: Part Two Faces Controversy Over Academy Award Eligibility

Despite its cinematic brilliance, Dune: Part Two is facing an unexpected hurdle regarding its eligibility for Academy Awards. While director Denis Villeneuve’s long-anticipated sequel to the sci-fi epic is celebrated for its visual splendor and compelling soundtrack, the film’s score, composed by Hans Zimmer, is unfortunately ineligible for one of the most coveted categories: Best Original Score.

This restriction arises from a peculiar rule set forth by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. According to the guidelines, for sequels or franchise films, the original score must not incorporate more than 20% of music from previous entries within the series. Given that Zimmer’s score for Dune: Part Two draws on motifs and elements from the score of the first film, it has been automatically disqualified from contention, much to the disappointment of fans hoping to see Zimmer receive another Oscar after winning for the first installment.

The Academy’s official statement outlines the rationale behind this regulation, specifying that echoes of prior themes render the score unsuitable for original score considerations, even if the underlying composition remains masterful. This has understandably stirred frustration among fans who regard the sequel as one of the standout films of 2024, particularly as it builds upon the narrative foundation established in its predecessor.

Interestingly, Zimmer himself seems unconcerned with the Academy’s ruling. In a recent interview with Variety, he emphasized the intrinsic purpose of composing the music: to enhance and support the film’s narrative. Zimmer articulated, “In the world of storytelling, our purpose is to serve the narrative and connect with the audience. With Dune: Part Two, we continue the journey at the exact moment we left off, expanding and evolving its themes throughout.”

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