Happy New Year, dear readers! As we usher in 2025, it’s only fitting to start the year with an exploration of one of the most highly anticipated series of 2024: Dune: Prophecy. Set within Frank Herbert’s iconic universe, this show delves into the intricate and captivating origins of the Bene Gesserit, the enigmatic sisterhood that has fascinated fans of the Dune saga for decades. Let’s dive in without spoilers and see if this prequel series lives up to its monumental expectations.

Dune: Prophecy is an HBO science fiction series that takes place 10,000 years before the events of Dune and Dune: Part Two. The show begins 80 years after humanity’s victory over the Omnius-led thinking machines at the Battle of Corrin. This pivotal point in the Dune timeline sets the stage for the rise of the Bene Gesserit, a mysterious and powerful sisterhood whose political and social influence will shape the galaxy.

The series focuses on two Harkonnen sisters, Valya and Tula, as they navigate dangerous political landscapes, personal sacrifices, and the mystical trials necessary to form the foundations of the Sisterhood. Along the way, the show explores early ties between the Harkonnen and Atreides families and delves into the larger conflicts of a fledgling.

Dune: Prophecy has been years in the making, developed as a spin-off from Denis Villeneuve’s film adaptations. With Diane Ademu-John and Alison Schapker at the helm, the series underwent several creative revisions before its debut in November 2024. Anna Foerster’s direction helped capture the gritty essence of the Dune universe, even if it didn’t quite match the cinematic grandeur of Villeneuve’s films.

Critics have praised the series for its performances, particularly from Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, who embody the complexity of the Bene Gesserit with exceptional depth. However, some have noted that the series lacks the visual spectacle of the Dune films, leaning more heavily on storytelling and character development. The audience response was solid, with 1.2 million viewers tuning in for the premiere and a significant increase in viewership after its second day.

I was genuinely thrilled to watch Dune: Prophecy. Not only because of my love for the Dune universe—both the books and films—but also because I, like many others, am endlessly fascinated by the Bene Gesserit. The show did not disappoint in exploring the sisterhood’s early days, portraying their struggle for power and influence with compelling nuance.

The cast is truly phenomenal, particularly Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, who perfectly embody the duality of the Bene Gesserit: their stoic control as the Imperium’s influencers and the emotional backstories that fuel their ambition. The narrative captures the early, volatile stages of the sisterhood, showcasing their determination to claim the power they believe is rightfully theirs.

One of my favorite aspects of the series is its focus on midlife female characters as the central figures. It’s rare to see such representation, and I found it incredibly refreshing and empowering. Unfortunately, the series has faced criticism—some of which stems from machismo rather than valid storytelling concerns. While it isn’t perfect and doesn’t have the sweeping visuals of Villeneuve’s films, the story, performances, and thematic depth more than make up for it.

Dune: Prophecy is a bold addition to the Dune franchise that focuses on intrigue, power struggles, and the rise of one of sci-fi’s most compelling factions. While it may not have the cinematic splendor of its film counterparts, it stands out as a rich, character-driven exploration of the Bene Gesserit’s origins.

What did you think of Dune: Prophecy? Are you as excited as I am to see where the series goes next in Season 2? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to follow The Movievaures on Instagram for more reviews, updates, and behind-the-scenes insights.
Here’s to another year of incredible storytelling—stay tuned for more from The Movievaures!