Forbes Scott Mendelson has explained the Dune 2 greenlighting as follows:
(1) Warner Bros. and Legendary think that Dune 2 will perform better theatrically amid more conventional circumstances than the presently-playing Dune, which is still likely going to end up with $375 million-$405 million worldwide;
(2) Announcing a sequel creates the impression of success (think Jungle Cruise 2 and Cruella 2) and encourages folks to check out the movie without fear of ending on a cliffhanger;
(3) Legendary perhaps wants to put itself in a rosier position to get purchased by a conglomerate;
(4) Whether or not Dune makes money theatrically is less of a concern as long as it’s perceived as a Covid-era theatrical success and/or a launching pad for HBO Max television shows.
