Austin Butler on Intense Training For ‘Dune Part Two’: “We Did A Lot Of Kali”

Award-winning filmmaker Denis Villeneuve’s much-anticipated ‘Dune: Part Two,’ the sequel to the critically acclaimed ‘Dune’ released in 2021, is gearing up for its theatrical debut on 1st March 2024. Continuing the epic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s renowned bestselling novel, ‘Dune: Part Two’ brings back familiar faces like Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya, with Austin Butler also joining the cast.

In this sequel, Butler takes on the role of Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, a formidable figure known for his intelligence and cruelty, traits he employs with deadly precision in combat. Portraying the character’s feline appearance and muscular physique, Butler underwent rigorous training to embody Feyd-Rautha’s persona.

Also Read: This is Why ‘Dune 2’ Is Becoming a Sci-Fi Masterpiece

In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Oscar-nominated actor Austin Butler opened up about his intensive preparation to bring Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen to life on screen. “I had months to train with this amazing guy, Duffy Gaver, who is a stuntman and was a Navy SEAL, and of course Roger Yuan, he’s brilliant, a legend, and I get to fight him in the film,” Butler shared.

Recognizing the demanding nature of the fight scenes, Butler and his trainers focused on enhancing his combat skills through various techniques, including Kali, a Filipino stick fighting style, and intensive knife work. “It was really about trying to find Feyd’s fighting style, and if Paul has training in the Atreides and Fremen way of fighting, how does Feyd’s differ,” explained the ‘Elvis’ star.

Apart from physical training, Butler also underwent vocal training to refine his portrayal of Feyd-Rautha. Reflecting on his transformation for the role, Butler expressed excitement at seeing himself fully immersed in the character’s appearance.

“Once I saw myself in the mirror and I didn’t have any hair, and I had black teeth… You start to see the transformation, which becomes a blast because then you can lose yourself in it,” revealed Butler.