Zendaya Sets ‘Dune 3’ Oscar Campaign for Best Actress in Category Shake-Up (EXCLUSIVE)
Zendaya is expected to campaign for the Oscar for best actress for playing Chani in “Dune: Part Three”, a change from the supporting actress category used for the first two films. The shift reflects Chani’s expanded role in the final instalment, where she is central to a mystery surrounding Paul Atreides’ rule.
Set nearly two decades after Paul takes control of the Imperium, the film follows the consequences of his reign as threats, returning allies and betrayal converge. Zendaya is also being put forward for lead actress for “The Drama” and supporting actress for “The Odyssey”; an Oscar nomination would be her first. “Dune: Part Three” is due in cinemas and Imax on 18 December.
In short
- Zendaya will campaign for best actress for “Dune: Part Three”.
- Chani has a larger role in the final film.
- An Oscar nomination would be Zendaya’s first.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A lead actress campaign may better reflect Chani’s expanded role and central importance to the story, giving her contribution appropriate recognition. Oscar categories should follow the substance of a performance rather than an actor’s previous placement in the same series.
The case against
A supporting actress campaign could be seen as more consistent with how Chani was positioned in the first two films, and may better fit a story still centred on Paul and his rule. Keeping category placements consistent across a series can also make comparisons clearer and reduce the impression that campaigns are shaped primarily to improve nomination prospects.
Explained simply
The Dune films are based on novels by Frank Herbert and are set in a distant future where powerful families compete for control of the Imperium, a vast interstellar empire. Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, rises to power, while Zendaya plays Chani, a skilled fighter and one of his closest companions.
The third film takes place nearly 20 years after Paul takes control. Chani’s place in the story has grown, as the film examines the effects of his rule and a mystery surrounding it. The Oscars are film awards, and actors may be considered in lead or supporting categories depending on their role.
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