Steven Spielberg has spent his illustrious career shaping blockbuster cinema, delivering some of the most iconic science fiction and suspense films in history. Despite defining the modern theatrical experience himself, he constantly keeps a close eye on contemporary filmmakers pushing genre boundaries. In a recent exclusive interview with Empire Magazine, the legendary auteur opened up about the recent cinematic triumphs that have profoundly impacted his own creative priorities. From breathtaking galactic sandscapes to chilling psychological terror, Spielberg offered massive praise to two of Hollywood’s brightest modern visionaries: Denis Villeneuve and Zach Cregger.
An Unmatched Sci-Fi Achievement
When discussing his favorite cinematic experiences, Spielberg did not hold back his immense admiration for Denis Villeneuve’s stunning adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic universe. He candidly told Empire that he has absolutely loved the recent cinematic journey to Arrakis, completely elevating the franchise above standard blockbuster fare. “They are among my favourite science-fiction movies, not just recently, but of all time,” the legendary director confessed. This massive endorsement from the mastermind behind extraterrestrial classics solidifies the sandy epic as a monumental, generational achievement.
While Spielberg expressed deep appreciation for the entire franchise, he reserved special praise for the massively successful 2024 sequel. He specifically singled out the second installment as the absolute peak of Villeneuve’s impressive directorial career. “I think [Part Two] is the best movie Denis has ever made,” he enthusiastically declared during the interview. To have the creator of modern sci-fi action call your work a personal best is a staggering, career-defining compliment that few contemporary filmmakers will ever have the privilege to receive.
Anticipating the Return to Arrakis
The iconic filmmaker is just as eager as the rest of the global audience to see how the epic interstellar saga eventually concludes. Looking ahead to the highly anticipated third installment, Spielberg expressed absolute confidence in Villeneuve’s ongoing vision. “I cannot wait to see the third one. I’m sure he’ll show it to me early,” he playfully noted. Given their mutual respect and Spielberg’s status as Hollywood royalty, it is practically guaranteed he will get an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming sandy blockbuster long before it hits public multiplexes.
Quenching a Lifelong Horror Itch
Pivoting from grand science fiction to the realm of pure terror, the director also shared a surprising revelation regarding his own unfulfilled creative desires. Fans have long begged Spielberg to direct a straightforward, unadulterated horror movie, a genre he has famously flirted with but never fully committed to. However, he admitted that watching Zach Cregger’s recent suspense masterpiece, Weapons, completely neutralized that lingering artistic craving. “When I see a great horror film like Weapons, I don’t have an itch I need to scratch,” the visionary creator frankly explained.
Spielberg elaborated that Cregger’s highly acclaimed film was so profoundly effective that it actually halted his ambition to attempt something equally frightening. “I see Weapons, and it doesn’t make me want to make a horror film that’s as scary or scarier than Weapons,” he confessed. He further noted that the cinematic experience satisfied him so completely that it effectively arrested his desire to ever helm a terrifying project. For a rising filmmaker like Cregger, successfully terrifying the master of suspense is an unimaginable, deeply prestigious badge of honor.