Max’s highly anticipated six-part series Dune: Prophecy takes viewers on an epic journey that dives deep into the Dune universe—far beyond the desert planet Arrakis seen in Denis Villeneuve’s blockbuster films. Premiering this Sunday, the show explores new time periods and environments while remaining true to the essence of Frank Herbert’s original Dune novels.
Set 10,000 years before the events of Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, Prophecy tells the origin story of the Bene Gesserit, an influential group of women capable of extraordinary mental and physical abilities. Executive producer Alison Schapker, known for her work on Westworld and Alias, emphasized that the series would respect the established Dune world while expanding it in exciting new ways. She stated, “We had total freedom, but it was important to stay true to the universe Denis so beautifully created.”
At the heart of the story are sisters Valya and Tula Harkonnen, played by Emily Watson and Olivia Williams. The two women take on forces that threaten the future of humanity, eventually founding the sect that will become the fabled Bene Gesserit. The series also explores various new worlds, including Salusa Secundus, which in Prophecy is portrayed as an imperial planet, not just the prison seen in Villeneuve’s films. The drama also unfolds on planets like Wallach IX, the sisterhood’s headquarters, and Lankiveil, a harsh frozen world where the Harkonnens were once exiled.
Schapker emphasized the show’s ability to bring Dune newcomers into the fold, while still offering rich lore for long-time fans. She acknowledged the challenge of balancing a deeply intricate world with accessible storytelling, but reassured viewers that Dune: Prophecy provides an engaging experience whether you are a seasoned Dune reader or a first-time viewer.
However, Prophecy doesn’t shy away from mature themes, with some adult-oriented content woven into the narrative. Schapker shared her excitement about the opportunity to explore “grown-up sci-fi,” allowing for more human depth in characters, including their sexuality. “It was a joy to give our characters three-dimensional humanity, without being gratuitous,” she said.
The first episode of Dune: Prophecy premieres Sunday on Max, offering fans a fresh, immersive addition to the Dune universe. As the series unfolds, viewers will witness how the Bene Gesserit, one of Dune‘s most iconic groups, came to be, while exploring the vast reaches of the universe.
Source: Swifteradio.com
