Key Points:
- Set 10,000 years before Dune, following the Harkonnen sisters’ rise within the Sisterhood
- Features an all-star cast led by Emily Watson and Olivia Williams
- Explores the origins of the Bene Gesserit and their political influence
- Premiered on HBO and Max on November 17, 2024
HBO’s newest science fiction series Dune: Prophecy delves deep into the origins of the mysterious Bene Gesserit order. Set millennia before the events of Dune, the series follows the Harkonnen sisters as they navigate political intrigue and power struggles while establishing what will become one of the most influential organizations in the known universe.
The Story Behind Dune: Prophecy
The series centers on sisters Valya and Tula Harkonnen in their quest to restore their family’s noble status. Following the death of Mother Superior Raquella Berto-Anirul, who envisions a threatening sandworm, Valya rises to power within the Sisterhood. The story spans multiple timelines, showing both the sisters’ early years and their later influence on galactic politics.
Key plot elements include the Sisterhood’s genetics program, political maneuvering within the imperial court, and the complex relationship between Houses Harkonnen, Atreides, and Corrino. The series introduces new characters like Desmond Hart, a mysterious soldier, and Princess Ynez, the potential first Sister to ascend to the throne.
Cast and Production Details of Dune: Prophecy
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast:
- Emily Watson as Mother Superior Valya Harkonnen
- Olivia Williams as Sister Tula Harkonnen
- Mark Strong as Emperor Javicco Corrino
- Travis Fimmel as Desmond Hart
- Sarah-Sofie Boussnina as Princess Ynez
Production underwent several changes, including multiple showrunner switches before settling on Alison Schapker. Filming took place in Budapest and Jordan, concluding in December 2023. The series features practical sets rather than virtual production technology, maintaining a tangible connection to the Dune universe.
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Connection to Dune Universe
Dune: Prophecy significantly expands the Dune mythology by exploring:
- The aftermath of the Butlerian Jihad
- Formation of the Sisterhood (later known as the Bene Gesserit)
- Origins of the Atreides-Harkonnen feud
- Early development of the genetic breeding program
The series draws from both Frank Herbert’s original works and the prequel novel Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, while introducing new elements and characters to enrich the narrative.
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Critical Reception
The series has received generally favorable reviews, with a 71% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics particularly praised the performances of Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, noting how the show effectively balances political intrigue with character development. While some viewers note it differs in tone from Denis Villeneuve’s films, the series stands on its own as an exploration of power and prophecy in the Dune universe.
Unique Elements and Innovations
The show introduces several original characters and plotlines not present in the source material:
- Desmond Hart’s mysterious mission
- Princess Ynez’s potential ascension to the throne
- The role of Mikaela, a Fremen woman with hidden motives
- Keiran Atreides’ connection to the royal family
These additions create fresh narrative threads while maintaining consistency with established Dune lore.
Legacy and Impact
As the first television series in the Dune franchise, Dune: Prophecy sets a new precedent for exploring the vast universe created by Frank Herbert. By focusing on the Sisterhood’s origins, the show provides crucial context for understanding the complex political and religious dynamics that shape the events of Dune.
The series demonstrates how the power structures and religious beliefs that dominate the later Dune timeline emerged from the ambitious actions of key historical figures, particularly the Harkonnen sisters and their contemporaries.
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When and Where to Watch Dune: Prophecy?
Dune: Prophecy, first episode, titled The Hidden Hand, premiered on November 17, 2024, at 9 PM ET in the U.S. and will be available weekly thereafter. The series consists of six episodes, with the following release schedule:
- Episode 1: The Hidden Hand — November 17, 2024
- Episode 2: Two Wolves — November 24, 2024
- Episode 3: Sisterhood Above All — December 1, 2024
- Episode 4: TBA — December 8, 2024
- Episode 5: TBA — December 15, 2024
- Episode 6: TBA — December 22, 2024
Viewers in the U.S. can watch it on HBO and stream it on Max, while international audiences have access through platforms like Crave in Canada and JioCinema in India.
Source: Space
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