In a conversation with Collider, Dune director Denis Villeneuve revealed that the script (an adapted screenplay from Frank Herbert’s original novel) for the highly anticipated sequel is nearly complete, and work on the film is ramping up.

“The screenplay is finished mostly, but it’s always a work in progress,” Villeneuve said. “It’ll be a work in progress until the final cut, but I will say it’s solidified. I have a script in my hands. We are in prep right now…My crew, we are in full prep for the movie.”

He also remarked on his work with cinematographer Greg Frasier, who worked on the first film along with the recently released The Batman. The pair experimented with using IMAX cameras and intend to continue using them for the second film.

“Greig Fraser and I, we fell in love with this format, and definitely there will be — even probably more — IMAX footage in this movie. Definitely,” Villeneuve said.

Dune nabbed 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Adapted Screenplay, which Villeneuve is in the running for despite not being nominated for Best Director. Greg Frasier is also nominated for Best Cinematography.

Dune: Part Two is still in early pre-production, but casting rumors have run rampant over the past week, including Florence Pugh as Princess Irulan and Austin Butler as Feyd-Rautha. Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, and Dave Bautista are among the returning cast. This summer, the film is expected to start for an October 2023 release.