Wednesday, 29th January 2025
The Association of Motion Picture Sound (AMPS) has officially announced DUNE: PART TWO (Warner Bros) as the winner of the 2025 AMPS Excellence in Sound for a Feature Film award.
The film's sound team, comprised of Gareth John AMPS, Tom Harrison AMPS, Martin Kwok, Richard King AMPS, Ron Bartlett, and Doug Hemphill, has been recognised for their outstanding contribution to cinematic sound.
The winners will be presented with their polished bronze AMPS trophies at a later date.
Recognising Sound Excellence
The AMPS Excellence in Sound award honours the exceptional artistry, creativity, and technical precision that bring films to life through sound. AMPS Chair Andrew Wilson praised the DUNE: PART TWO sound team, stating:
“The sound for DUNE: PART TWO was astonishing, and key to immersing the audience in Denis Villeneuve’s expansive world of Arrakis. It is a deeply impressive piece of filmmaking demonstrating the power of sound as a storytelling device. From the power of the Sandworm ride to the tiniest grains drifting in the lightest of winds the sound is detailed and nuanced, creating a memorable experience. AMPS is honoured to recognise the work in sound of Gareth John AMPS, Tom Harrison AMPS, Martin Kwok, Richard King AMPS, Ron Bartlett, Doug Hemphill and their sound teams.”
The DUNE: PART TWO sound team expressed their gratitude for the honour:
“We are deeply honoured and humbled for the recognition and honouring of our film, DUNE: PART TWO. We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at AMPS for this incredible award. This acknowledgement is especially meaningful because it comes from sound professionals—our peers and colleagues who understand the artistry and dedication it takes to create immersive cinematic experiences. To be recognized by this distinguished group of experts is an extraordinary honour that means a lot and one we will always treasure.
We also want to acknowledge the other nominees who did such fantastic jobs and the remarkable films that were in contention for this award as well. The level of talent and innovation across the sound community continues to inspire and push all of us to do our best work. It is a privilege to stand among such a brilliant group of storytellers. Thank you again for this meaningful recognition and for celebrating the art of sound in filmmaking, we're very grateful to be a part of this community.”
AMPS and Its Legacy in Sound Awards
Now in its 12th year, the AMPS Awards are a key part of the awards season, with past winners frequently achieving success at the BAFTAs and Academy Awards. Last year’s 2024 AMPS Excellence in Sound for a Feature Film award winner The Zone of Interest continued the strong record of AMPS winners, with 10 out of the last 11 AMPS recipients going on to win the BAFTA and 7 securing the Oscar. DUNE: PART TWO is currently nominated for both prestigious awards.
The AMPS Awards are supported by leading industry partners, including DOLBY LABORATORIES, PINEWOOD GROUP, SENNHEISER, RAYCOM and BUBBLEBEE INDUSTRIES. Their dedication to innovation and excellence in sound aligns with AMPS’ mission to champion the art, craft and science of sound in screen storytelling.