Hans Zimmer’s ‘Dune 2’ Score Ruled Ineligible for Oscars (EXCLUSIVE)

As a seasoned movie-goer and music enthusiast who has seen more film scores than I can count on one hand (and still have fingers left for popcorn), it is with a heavy heart that I must express my disappointment over the Academy’s decision regarding Hans Zimmer’s masterful score for “Dune: Part Two.” The man is a veritable titan of the film music world, and his work on this epic sci-fi saga was nothing short of breathtaking.


As a movie music aficionado, I’m disheartened to share that one of this year’s most awaited and grandiose soundtracks won’t be eligible for an Academy Award contention.

The second installment of “Dune” directed by Denis Villeneuve, produced by Warner Bros., received wide praise when it premiered in March. Both critics and viewers admired its visuals, storytelling, and particularly, the music score by Hans Zimmer who won an Academy Award. Unfortunately, Zimmer’s impressive and moving score for this sci-fi masterpiece cannot be considered for this year’s Oscars as it exceeds the Academy’s rule on pre-existing music, making it ineligible for the best original score category.

According to the Academy’s rule, a score in sequels or franchise works should not include more than 20% of themes and melodies borrowed from earlier scores within that franchise. As Hans Zimmer’s composition for “Dune: Part Two” heavily incorporates elements from his previous work on “Dune” (2021), it exceeds the eligibility criteria.

Despite Zimmer’s work on “Dune 2” not yet being officially recognized by organizations such as the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes, BAFTA, and the Grammys, there is still a chance for him to receive accolades in these areas. Furthermore, Zimmer’s score for Steve McQueen’s upcoming World War II drama “Blitz” is eligible for consideration, offering another potential opportunity for Academy recognition this year. Previously, Zimmer and McQueen have worked together on projects like “Widows” and the Oscar-winning film “12 Years a Slave.

Hans Zimmer’s ‘Dune 2’ Score Ruled Ineligible for Oscars (EXCLUSIVE)

In an imminent unique conversation with EbMaster, Zimmer discloses that he crafts his music devoid of accolades in mind, providing a peek into the innovative methods employed in producing the musical pieces for “Dune 2.

In the realm of storytelling, our role is to uphold the plot’s integrity and resonate with our viewers, as Zimmer explains. For ‘Dune: Part Two’, we pick up where we left off in the initial part, right at that pivotal moment. The music was designed to grow and develop its themes, just like the book, leading us towards a predetermined conclusion – from the first note to the last word, the development was planned meticulously.

The new update finds “Dune: Part Two” being excluded from Oscar contention for outstanding film scores, joining a list that also features notable omissions like Jóhann Jóhannsson’s score for “Arrival” (2016), Cliff Martinez’s work in “Drive” (2011), and Clint Mansell’s music from “Black Swan” (2010). Notable among these snubbed composers is Jonny Greenwood, whose scores for “There Will Be Blood” (2007) and “The Master” (2012) were also overlooked. In contrast, legendary composer John Williams has consistently been nominated for sequels and franchise films, with six nominations for “Star Wars,” two for “Harry Potter,” and four for the “Indiana Jones” series.

Regardless of the obstacle, the renowned German conductor remains committed to backing “Dune 2”, as it navigates through the awards season. He expressed, “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve jointly created with visionaries like Denis Villeneuve. This is our collective effort towards enriching a broader cinematic adventure.

Over many years, Hans Zimmer’s exceptional career stands out, creating an enduring impact on contemporary filmmaking. This talented composer has received 12 Oscar nominations, winning twice – for “The Lion King” (1994) and “Dune” (2021). Apart from Oscars, he has won four Grammy Awards, earned six Emmy nominations, and even a Tony nod, solidifying his status as one of the most successful and impactful composers in the entertainment world.

Although Hans Zimmer’s score for “Dune: Part Two” might not be competing for the highest honors at the Oscars, his influence on films and music transcends the realm of the Academy Awards competition.

“Dune: Part Two

Read More

2024-10-22 21:18