From her role as the MCU’s MJ in Spider-Man: Homecoming and Far From Home, to her riveting turns in Euphoria and Malcolm And Marie, Zendaya is already a screen force to be reckoned with. And if her presence in Denis Villeneuve’s Dune will be relatively small, her part is a significant one – she’s playing Chani, a girl of Arrakis’ native Fremen population, whose destiny is entwined with that of Timothée Chalamet’s Paul Atreides. Should the filmmaker get to make his second part of the epic Frank Herbert adaptation, the character would feature much more heavily – but for now, she’ll be a tantalising promise of what’s to come.
With Dune’s Venice premiere drawing ever-closer, read Empire’s interview with Zendaya – discussing how she came to play Chani, why she wants to explore the character further in Villeneuve’s planned second film, and speaking on those Kill Bill Vol. 3 rumours.
How did you get involved in Dune?
Not a super crazy story. I wish it were more exciting. When I found out that it was being made, I was extremely interested. I’ve always wanted to be a part of something sci-fi like that, and I’m a huge fan of Denis. I just went after it and auditioned.
What was your impression of Chani, your fierce Fremen fighter?
My part is very, very small in this movie and that’s why I’m so excited to see it, to see what everyone’s been up to. [Denis and I] had a little discussion about who Chani is and the strength she possesses. She’s a fighter, that’s what her people are. I only really had a few days with her, so I kind of scratched the surface but it was so much fun figuring her out. What does she walk like, what does she talk like? This is her planet, so how does she navigate this world? It was so fun.
I felt like Timothée and I had known each other forever, like this was my homie growing up.
How was Denis as a director on set?
He’s so kind and attentive to all of his actors. I was only there for four days and I did not want to leave! Denis understands what he wants from us but he’s also very collaborative, allowing me to have my take on the character as well. I don’t want to jinx anything but I can’t wait to explore her more. I hope I get to learn more from Denis. I love to learn from people who are great at their job.
Did you know Timothée before?
We met at my chemistry-read. I felt like we’d known each other forever, like this was my homie growing up. We became really great friends. He’s obviously very talented and really passionate about his job and takes it very seriously, and I think it shows in his career. Taking on this massive movie, I would be terrified, you know what I mean? But he handles it with such grace. He’s brilliant.
Vivica A. Fox recently said that she wants you to play her screen daughter in Kill Bill 3 if that ever happens. What do you think?
I saw that! I was quite honoured that she would say that. Obviously she’s incredible and I’m very flattered that she would think of me. But, you know, it’s just an idea. The internet kinda takes things and runs with it.
READ MORE: Dune: The Inside Story Of Denis Villeneuve’s Sci-Fi Epic
READ MORE: Timothée Chalamet On Dune: 'I Felt A Deep Desire To Be Involved'
Originally published in Empire's October 2020 issue. Dune comes to UK cinemas from 21 October.