Hans Zimmer’s ‘Dune: Part Two’ score misses Oscar eligibility

An anticipated masterpiece hits a snag

One of the most awaited events in the music and film industry this year has encountered an unexpected twist. Hans Zimmer‘s monumental score for Warner Bros.’ “Dune: Part Two” has set the world alight, drawing resounding praise from both audiences and critics alike. Directed by the brilliant Denis Villeneuve, the film mesmerized viewers with its captivating visuals, intricate storytelling, and, notably, its sweeping musical score. Yet, in a surprising turn of events, this score will not be vying for an Oscar.

Why Zimmer’s score doesn’t qualify

The Academy has a stringent rule when it comes to the use of pre-existing music. Specifically, in cases of sequels and franchises, the score must not include more than 20% of themes borrowed from earlier iterations. Since Zimmer’s composition for “Dune: Part Two” incorporates significant elements from his work on the 2021 Dune film, it exceeds this threshold, rendering it ineligible for the Best Original Score category.

“In the world of storytelling, our purpose is to serve the narrative and connect with the audience. With ‘Dune: Part Two,’ we continue the journey we began in the first half of the book at the exact moment we left off,” says Zimmer. “The score was always written to expand and evolve its themes and take them, like the book, to a natural ending, planned from the first word to the last note.”

The significance of the Academy’s rule

The rule in question was crafted to ensure that new scores bring fresh and original compositions to the table. It states that sequels and franchises from any media should not use more than 20% of previously existing themes. This regulation ensures that the art of scoring remains innovative and forward-moving, a reflection of new artistic visions rather than reiterations.

Other awards still in play

Despite this setback, Zimmer’s work on Dune: Part Two is not out of the running entirely. It is still poised to gain recognition from other prestigious bodies such as the Critics Choice Awards, Golden Globes, BAFTA, and even the Grammys. Moreover, another of Zimmer’s scores – for Steve McQueen’s upcoming World War II drama “Blitz” – remains in the running for Academy recognition. Zimmer and McQueen’s previous collaborations, including the Best Picture winner “12 Years a Slave,” showcase a dynamic and fruitful partnership.

A history of similar disqualifications

“Dune: Part Two” joins a roster of exceptional film scores that the Academy’s Music Branch has previously deemed ineligible. Notable examples include Jóhann Jóhannsson’s score for “Arrival” (2016), Cliff Martinez’s work on “Drive” (2011), and Clint Mansell’s composition for “Black Swan” (2010). Composer Jonny Greenwood also faced similar disqualifications for his critically acclaimed work on “There Will Be Blood” (2007) and “The Master” (2012).

Interestingly, composing legend John Williams has navigated this rule successfully, earning nominations multiple times for sequels and franchise films, including six “Star Wars” films, two for “Harry Potter,” and four for the “Indiana Jones” series. This highlights the Academy’s complex balance of recognizing consistent brilliance while maintaining a boundary for originality.

Hans Zimmer: A legacy that transcends awards

Hans Zimmer’s career, spanning decades, is a testament to his unparalleled influence on modern cinema. With 12 Oscar nominations and two wins, for “The Lion King” (1994) and “Dune” (2021), his prowess is undebatable. Beyond the Oscars, Zimmer’s trophy cabinet includes four Grammy Awards, six Emmy nominations, and even a Tony nomination. His body of work continues to shape and redefine film music as a whole.

The German maestro remains unfazed by this Oscar hiccup. Continuing to champion “Dune: Part Two,” Zimmer’s pride in his collaboration with Denis Villeneuve reflects his dedication to cinematic excellence. “I’m immensely proud of what we’ve collaboratively crafted with visionaries like Denis Villeneuve. This is our contribution to a larger cinematic experience,” he said.

An ever-evolving cinematic journey

Hans Zimmer’s score may not grace the Oscars stage this year, but its impact on the audience and the cinematic landscape is indelible. The compelling journey of Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) through the perilous universe of “Dune” continues to resonate. Featuring a stellar cast including Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Florence Pugh, Javier Bardem, and Christopher Walken, the film is now available for streaming on HBO | Max.

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