Dune: Prophecy A new sci-fi series has emerged, offering an ideal conclusion to a year brimming with epic period dramas. The second seasons of House of the Dragon and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, both set in periods rich with robes, scheming, and mysterious beings, delighted fans earlier this year. Dune: Prophecy is a natural fit for this theme. But does it succeed in maintaining the magic of the other two? Let’s find out.
Dune: Prophecy, like its predecessors Dune (2021) and Dune: Part Two (2024), takes place in the past. The series delves into uncharted territories, exploring a deadly prophecy that forms the crux of its story.
This new HBO spin-off serves as a grand origin tale for the Bene Gesserit, the powerful sisterhood introduced in Frank Herbert’s fictional Dune universe. News18 Showsha previewed the first episode, and from what we’ve seen, the series introduces Valya Harkonnen (Emily Watson) as a ruthless and determined Sister.
The opening scene establishes Valya as one of the trusted Sisters from the younger generation. The older Sisters’ vision, to protect the Sisterhood and prepare for the unfolding of the prophecy, aligns her with their goals.
While she sets out to use her supernatural abilities to safeguard the matriarchal order, a misstep—described in Valya’s own words as putting her on “the wrong side of history”—throws her path into turmoil.
The series takes a time leap within the first 15 minutes, introducing us to an older Valya, who remains dedicated to her vision. With the assistance of Sister Tula (Olivia Williams), she leads the Sisterhood, continually training younger women to join their ranks.
Simultaneously, the narrative reveals that some Sisters use their powers to aid empires, lending their supernatural gifts and foresight to bolster political power. The episode reveals that Sister Tula has her sights on Emperor Javicco Corrino’s (Mark Strong) daughter, Princess Ynez (Sarah-Sofie Boussnina), as a potential recruit for the Sisterhood.
One of the Sisters strategically positions herself as the Emperor’s right-hand confidante to facilitate this. The episode reveals a close connection between the prophecy and Princess Ynez’s destiny, foreshadowing grave events that await her.
Like Denis Villeneuve’s Dune films, Dune: Prophecy excels in its visuals. Even for a small-screen project, the enormous scale remains uncompromised, resulting in a grand spectacle. From its opulent sets to the breathtaking cinematography by Pierre Gill, the series transports viewers to another world, evoking a desire to experience it on the big screen.
Showrunners and developers Diane Ademu-John and Alison Schapker skillfully use the series format to lay a solid foundation. Multiple parallel plotlines pack the first episode. While the narrative flows seamlessly until a particular twist involving a traveler, the episode’s final subplot feels slightly overwhelming. Kudos to the writers for tactfully structuring these developments to branch out in future episodes.
The experience is undoubtedly immersive, though the series bears some resemblance to House of the Dragon. Similar projects have extensively explored themes of scheming, plotting, and prophecy. This overexposure might weigh the series down. However, as this review is based solely on the first episode, it’s too soon to judge definitively.
Should You Watch Dune: Prophecy?
Absolutely! The series is set to conclude 2024 with a significant impact. We will have to wait and see if it’s a good or bad bang.
Does Tabu appear In The First Episode?
As for Indian fans eagerly anticipating Tabu’s appearance, I have disappointing news—she does not feature in the first episode. Emily Watson’s performance captivated me while I waited for her entry. Portraying Mother Superior Valya Harkonnen, Watson commands every scene she’s in. I’m curious to see how her character’s shades of gray evolve in future episodes. Sarah-Sofie Boussnina also stands out, delivering a compelling performance that had me rooting for her from the start.
Where To Watch Dune Prophecy?
Dune: Prophecy will stream on JioCinema in India. A new episode of the six-episode series will drop every Monday in India.
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