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Dune: Prophecy Set to Debut on HBO

Dune: Prophecy is poised to make its debut on HBO and Max on November 17, 2024.

The excitement surrounding New York Comic-Con is palpable, with one of the notable moments being an HBO panel dedicated to the upcoming series Dune: Prophecy. Attendees were treated to a two-and-a-half-minute trailer that offered a tantalizing glimpse into the show’s narrative and visual style.

Originally announced in 2019, this series is under the guidance of director Denis Villeneuve in the role of executive producer, alongside Alison Schapker, known for her work on Alias, Fringe, and Altered Carbon, who serves as the showrunner. The storyline is set against the backdrop of the novel Sisterhood of Dune, authored by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. The series promises to delve into the inception of the Bene Gesserit, a vital faction in the Dune universe.

The narrative is set approximately 10,000 years prior to Paul Atreides’ rise to power, centering on two Harkonnen sisters who are fighting against formidable threats to humanity’s destiny while laying the foundation for the Bene Gesserit order. The first season is comprised of six episodes, though it remains to be seen how closely the adaptation will follow the original literary material.

In the cast, Emily Watson portrays Valya Harkonnen, the leader of the Sisterhood, with Olivia Williams as her sister, Tula Harkonnen. Mark Strong takes on the role of Emperor Javicco Corrino, while Jodhi May plays Empress Natalya. Sarah-Sofie Boussnina is also featured as Princess Ynez.

The series boasts a diverse ensemble, including Shalom Brune-Franklin as Mikaela, a Fremen woman connected to the royal lineage; Travis Fimmel as Desmond Hart, a soldier with a mysterious backstory; Chris Mason portraying the swordsman Keiran Atreides; Josh Heuston as Constantine Corrino, the illegitimate son of Javicco; and Edward Davis as the ambitious politician Harrow Harkonnen. Additionally, Tabu features as Sister Francesca, the Emperor’s former lover, while Jihae plays Reverend Mother Kasha, the Emperor’s Truthsayer. Other notable characters include Sister Jen, played by Faoileann Cunningham; Lila, portrayed by Chloe Lea; Sister Theodosia, represented by Jade Anouka; and Sister Emeline, played by Aoife Hinds.

With its rich source material and an impressive cast, Dune: Prophecy is generating significant anticipation among fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

Source
arstechnica.com