HBO's 'Dune: Prophecy,' set 10,000 years before the events of Denis Villeneuve's 'Dune' films, introduces a new generation of the Atreides and Harkonnen families. The series explores the origins of the Bene Gesserit and the historic feud between the two families, featuring a cast led by Emily Watson and Olivia Williams. The show diverges from the desert landscapes of Arrakis, focusing on political intrigue and the machinations of the Bene Gesserit across the universe.
HBO's latest series, 'Dune: Prophecy,' transports viewers back 10,000 years before the familiar timeline of Denis Villeneuve's 'Dune' films, offering a fresh perspective on the saga's universe. The prequel delves deep into the origins of the Bene Gesserit, a powerful group of witches with significant political influence, and reignites the ancient feud between the Atreides and Harkonnen families. The show promises a blend of political intrigue, mysticism, and a new look at the universe's expansive history.
The series introduces viewers to new characters from the Atreides and Harkonnen families, set long before their descendants appear in the 'Dune' films. Key figures include Valya and Tula Harkonnen, played by Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, who are high-ranking Bene Gesserit witches intent on restoring their family's power. The series also features Mark Strong as Emperor Javicco Corrino, who navigates a troubled peace across the universe, and his daughter, Princess Ynez, portrayed by Sarah-Sofie Boussnina, who is destined to join the Bene Gesserit.
Unlike previous adaptations, 'Dune: Prophecy' shifts away from the desert landscapes of Arrakis to explore other parts of the universe, emphasizing the political and mystical elements of the story. The show is inspired by Frank Herbert’s original 'Dune' novel and the 'Sisterhood of Dune' by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, focusing on the strategic movements of the Bene Gesserit across different royal families to manipulate political outcomes.
The series premiere has received mixed reviews, with critics pointing out the heavy reliance on exposition and character introductions. Despite these critiques, the visual style closely follows Denis Villeneuve's aesthetic, promising a grand scale of storytelling. For viewers interested in watching 'Dune: Prophecy,' it is available on HBO and can be streamed online via platforms like Max and Amazon Prime, with various subscription options including free trials.
With 'Dune: Prophecy,' HBO expands the 'Dune' universe, exploring new timelines and deeper lore. The series sets up a complex narrative filled with political intrigue and the eternal battle between two iconic families. As the series unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it balances the original themes of the 'Dune' saga with the new elements introduced in this prequel.
"Valya sees the Bene Gesserit's mission as a means to redeem the Harkonnen name." - Valya Harkonnen