In 2024, Zendaya’s spotlight is set to blaze across the cinematic horizon, particularly during the year’s initial half. Despite a quieter 2023 in terms of major projects, the 27-year-old remained esteemed in Hollywood, carried by the momentum of her remarkable 2021. Alongside reprising MJ in Spider-Man: No Way Home, Zendaya’s presence shone in Malcolm & Marie, Dune, and her vocal role as Lola Bunny in Space Jam: A New Legacy.
While Zendaya’s ascent to stardom largely stems from significant film roles, her portrayal of Rue in HBO’s Euphoria remains a defining achievement. Her compelling depiction of a teen grappling with substance abuse earned her multiple accolades, including two Emmy wins. Although Euphoria is absent from the 2024 scene, fans will have two cinematic opportunities to witness Zendaya’s prowess, potentially setting the box office ablaze, especially in the spring.
Zendaya is slated to headline two of 2024’s most highly anticipated movies. March marks her return as Chani in Dune: Part Two, Denis Villeneuve’s sequel to the 2021 hit. Originally slated for a fall 2023 release, the film faced delays due to writer and actor labor strikes, eventually rescheduled for 2024. After a shift to a March 15th release date, Dune: Part Two’s launch moved once more, now landing on March 1st. Subsequently, on April 26th, Zendaya leads in Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers, another film postponed from 2023 owing to the labor strikes.
Anticipation mounts for both Dune 2 and Challengers as Zendaya gears up for potentially her most remarkable performances yet. In the previous Dune installment, Zendaya’s character, Chani, made a delayed entry into the plot. However, Dune: Part Two promises a more prominent role for Chani alongside Timothée Chalamet’s Paul Atreides, rectifying prior criticisms. With various exciting elements, this sequel could witness Zendaya deliver one of her finest performances, now playing a pivotal part in a major franchise instead of being relegated to a supporting role.
Regarding Challengers, the expectations soar owing to Guadagnino’s reputation for crafting compelling characters. Films like Call Me By Your Name, Suspiria, and Bones and All have highlighted his talent in this regard. Zendaya takes on the role of a wife and coach to a tennis star confronting her past flame. While Zendaya’s dramatic prowess shines through Euphoria, her films have yet to fully unveil her potential—a narrative that Challengers and Dune: Part Two might revolutionize.
