HBO’s prequel series “Dune: Prophecy” introduces a new generation of the Atreides and Harkonnen families, taking place 10,000 years before the events depicted in Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune” films. This historical backdrop removes the presence of contemporary actors like Timothée Chalamet, Austin Butler, and Florence Pugh, instead focusing on their ancient ancestors.
“Dune: Prophecy” delves into the early histories of the Bene Gesserit, a formidable group of influential women shaping political dynamics across the universe. The series will also explore the long-standing rivalry between the Atreides and Harkonnen families, as well as the significant conflict between humans and intelligent machines.
The cast features Emily Watson and Olivia Williams as Valya and Tula Harkonnen, two sisters aligned with the Bene Gesserit who seek to regain their family’s dominance by manipulating Emperor Javicco Corrino, portrayed by Mark Strong. Their ambitious scheme includes spreading the Bene Gesserit’s influence and indoctrinating the Emperor’s daughter, Princess Ynez, played by Sarah-Sofie Boussnina. Viewers will encounter other notable members of House Harkonnen, House Corrino, and even a character linked to House Atreides, connecting back to Paul Atreides.
Interestingly, “Dune: Prophecy” operates outside the iconic desert landscape of Arrakis and its infamous sandworms but still features characters with roots connected to this vital location.
In summary, “Dune: Prophecy” promises a rich exploration of the ancient lore within the Dune universe, paving the way for new stories while fans await the next chapter of the cinematic adaptations. The show’s focus on the Bene Gesserit’s power dynamics adds depth to the established narrative, enticing viewers with its intricate storytelling potential. This approach offers hope that audiences will see a more nuanced understanding of the characters and the conflicts that define their legacies.