Denis Villeneuve Reacts to the Academy’s Decision to Disqualify Hans Zimmer from Best Score Category

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In the year 2024, Dune: Part Two was a tremendous success, but not every contributor will receive an acknowledgement from the Academy Awards. Unfortunately, Hans Zimmer, the renowned composer, is not eligible for a nomination in the Best Original Score category this year.

The reason for this is that the music in the sequel heavily relied on tunes from the initial film, which violated the Academy’s guideline that restricts sequels to utilizing no more than 20% of the original soundtrack. However, Hans Zimmer’s absence is somewhat mitigated due to his previous Oscar win for the score of the first “Dune” movie.

Nonetheless, many people believe that the music in “Part Two” is even more powerful, with the heart-touching love theme, ‘A Time of Quiet Between the Storms,’ standing out particularly. At a screening in New York on January 2, 2025, director Denis Villeneuve voiced his displeasure over the Academy’s decision, as reported by Slash/Film.

Director Villeneuve praised Zimmer’s film score as “one of the standout scores of this year,” and went so far as to label him a “genius.” He also expressed his view that the Academy’s rule for separate film nominations doesn’t suit the “Dune” films, which he perceives as one continuous narrative split across two parts.

In the second movie, the director pointed out that certain themes are continued, but it also introduces a lot of new, innovative music. He emphasized that the score significantly enhances the more intense and dramatic scenes in this sequel.

Regardless of the obstacle, Villeneuve conveyed that he bears no ill will. In his speech, he expressed, ‘I’m not here to whine,’ yet emphasized that Zimmer’s music carries on the tale from the initial movie, introducing fresh dimensions and feelings.

One intriguing instance that Villeneuve mentioned was about Zimmer’s apprehension when creating the love theme. ‘The one occasion I noticed Hans feeling anxious was during our discussions about the love theme,’ the director disclosed.

Initially, Zimmer found himself faced with the mission to compose a work that would encapsulate the profound bond between the characters, causing him some apprehension. Yet, what emerged was the exquisite ‘A Time of Quiet Between the Storms,’ a composition that has since distinguished itself as a memorable melody from the film.

Although Zimmer’s work on Dune: Part Two may not earn him recognition from the Academy, his score has left a deep impression on listeners that is expected to be cherished for many years.

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2025-01-05 16:43