Dune; Prophecy Prequel Series Debuts to Mixed Reviews
Dune: Prophecy, the new prequel series to the acclaimed sci-fi franchise, recently premiered on HBO and has garnered a mixed reception from critics. Set 10,000 years prior to the events of the Dune films, the series explores the origins of the Bene Gesserit sisterhood, focusing on two central characters: Valya Harkonnen, portrayed by Emily Watson, and her sister Tula, played by Olivia Williams.
The show, adapted from the novel Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, is framed around the Sisterhood’s early days as they navigate a stratified, patriarchal society. Critics acknowledged the series’ ambitious lore-building, yet many pointed out its struggle with pacing, excessive complexity, and an overcrowded cast that can make character motivations hard to follow.
The premiere episode, titled “The Hidden Hand,” introduces viewers to the internal power dynamics among the elite houses of the Imperium and the manipulative strategies employed by the Bene Gesserit to secure their status. The series sets itself apart from Denis Villeneuve’s films with a darker tone, notable from the shocking portrayal of violence, including the on-screen murder of a child.
Critics praised the performances from the leading actresses, particularly Watson and Williams, who effectively embodied their characters’ complex relationships and ambitions. The visual aesthetics of Dune: Prophecy received commendations for mirroring the cinematic language of Villeneuve’s films. However, some felt that the show lacks the epic scale and emotional depth that fans have come to expect from the franchise.
As the series progresses, it reveals a narrative rich in political intrigue and character-driven drama, portrayed through a lens that challenges traditional gender roles. However, reviews suggest that the series may not fully resonate with newcomers to the Dune universe, given its intricate backstory and lore. The overall consensus is that while Dune: Prophecy has moments of brilliance, it struggles to maintain a coherent voice and emotional impact across its plotlines.
Dune: Prophecy review – a bracingly different sci-fi dominated by women at every level
The origins of the mysterious Bene Gesserit sisterhood are uncovered in this starry and intense prequel to the fantasy saga that would have been unthi
www.theguardian.com
Dune: Prophecy Crossed The One Line The Movies Never Did
It took one death for the prequel series to show how dark it can get
kotaku.com
Dune: Prophecy Series Premiere Review – “The Hidden Hand” - IGN
Lays solid groundwork for the series, though nothing stands out as the big draw.
www.ign.com
Dune: Prophecy is a slow and cerebral meditation on the power of patience
HBO’s new Dune prequel delivers on Bene Gesserit lore and not much else.
www.theverge.com
Dune: Prophecy review: HBO's prequel occasionally stands up to Denis Villeneuve's movies – but largely falls short
Our verdict is in!
www.gamesradar.com
Emily Watson on Playing a ‘Badass’ in ‘Dune: Prophecy,’ Getting Inspired by Alec Guinness in ‘Star Wars’ and Plans for Season 2
Emily Watson, the star of 'Dune: Prophecy,' discusses playing the religious leader at the heart of the HBO show and her hopes for a second season.
variety.com
'Dune: Prophecy': Why isn't the Sisterhood called the Bene Gesserit?
Showrunner Alison Schapker explains.
mashable.com
Sisterhood reigns supreme in thrilling prequel series 'Dune: Prophecy'
Sisterhood reigns supreme in 'Dune: Prophecy,' a thrilling prequel series that takes place 10,000 years before the events of the 'Dune' films. Read EW
ew.com
‘Dune: Prophecy’ Review: HBO’s Somber ‘House of the Dragon’-Style Prequel Could Use a Bit More Spice
Emily Watson, Olivia Williams and Mark Strong lead the cast of a sci-fi drama set over 10,000 years before the events of the Denis Villeneuve-directed
www.hollywoodreporter.com
Review: ‘Dune: Prophecy’ Is Still Looking for Its Voice
A long-gestating prequel, about the women who seek to guide a galaxy, is splashy, somber and insufficiently spicy.
www.nytimes.com