In a surprising turn of events, Hans Zimmer’s much-celebrated score for the epic cinematic sequel “Dune: Part Two” has been ruled ineligible for consideration at the upcoming 2025 Academy Awards. The decision, announced earlier this week, comes as a disappointment to many fans and critics who had hoped to see the renowned composer’s work earn recognition in the Best Original Score category.
The film, helmed by acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve and released by Warner Bros. in March, has already captivated audiences worldwide with its breathtaking visuals, compelling narrative, and, notably, its evocative and immersive soundtrack. Zimmer, who had previously won an Oscar for his masterful score of the 2021 predecessor “Dune,” returns with a composition that resonates deeply with returning and new elements of the saga’s universe. Despite widespread acclaim, however, his latest work has been disqualified by the Academy due to its adherence to existing material from the first film.
The Academy’s strict guidelines for the Best Original Score category clearly state that “no more than 20% of the score can reuse material from previous installments.” Zimmer’s composition for “Dune: Part Two” reportedly integrates significant themes from his previous award-winning score, thereby surpassing this threshold. As a result, the film’s soundtrack does not meet the Academy’s criteria for originality and is thus excluded from this year’s competition. This limitation underscores the challenges faced by composers working on sequels, especially when their iconic themes become integral to the continuation of a beloved narrative.
While the Oscar exclusion marks a setback, it does not diminish the impact of Zimmer’s composition on audiences and film critics alike. Many argue that the score for “Dune: Part Two” elevates the film’s grandeur and enhances the emotional depth of the imagery on screen, proving that Zimmer’s music remains a key component of the storytelling experience.
Significantly, this disqualification places Zimmer among a distinguished group of esteemed composers whose scores for sequels have been excluded from Oscar consideration due to similar rule infractions.
. This list includes notable figures such as Jonny Greenwood for “There Will Be Blood,” Jóhann Jóhannsson for “Arrival,” and Cliff Martinez for “Drive.” Despite these exclusions, historical precedents reveal that the Academy has occasionally bent its rules for certain composers, such as John Williams, whose memorable scores for long-standing franchises like “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones” have seen similar thematic reuse yet received nominations and awards.
Nonetheless, Zimmer’s work for “Dune: Part Two” retains eligibility for several other prestigious awards. These include the Golden Globes, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards, and the Critics Choice Awards, where the soundtrack is still expected to garner significant attention and praise.
Moreover, Zimmer’s upcoming score for Steve McQueen’s World War II drama “Blitz” remains a potential contender for an Oscar, providing the legendary composer further opportunities for recognition. Industry insiders are already predicting that his work on “Blitz” could capture the attention of the Academy, adding another accolade to his illustrious career.
Meanwhile, “Dune: Part Two” is generating buzz for its remarkable cinematic achievements beyond its soundtrack. The film is expected to secure multiple nominations across various other Oscar categories, potentially highlighting its exceptional direction, screenplay, production design, and visual effects. Denis Villeneuve’s directorial prowess, coupled with the film’s outstanding ensemble cast, has already marked “Dune: Part Two” as a strong contender in the upcoming awards season.
As the conversation unfolds around Zimmer’s disqualification, the discourse highlights both the challenges posed by strict adherence to Academy regulations and the enduring power of music in shaping the cinematic experience. Ultimately, Zimmer’s work for “Dune: Part Two” continues to resonate with audiences and critics alike, solidifying his reputation as a master composer in the pantheon of film music. Given its profound impact, the score will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of fans, regardless of its Oscar eligibility.
