With the announcement of HBO’s upcoming series ‘Dune: Prophecy,’ anticipation is building around how this new installment will fit into the established ‘Dune’ timeline.
Created by Diane Ademu-John and Alison Schapker, this six-episode series is set to premiere on November 17 and promises to explore the rich lore of Frank Herbert’s classic universe, specifically focusing on the Bene Gesserit.
When Does ‘Dune: Prophecy’ Take Place?
‘Dune: Prophecy’ is set 10,000 years before the events of the ‘Dune’ films, diving into the origins of the Bene Gesserit order. The narrative follows sisters Valya (Emily Watson) and Tula Harkonnen (Olivia Williams) as they establish a matriarchal religious society to protect their planet from looming threats.
This prequel series will also reveal the long-term ambitions of the Bene Gesserit, who seek to manipulate the cosmic balance and ultimately create a superhuman messiah to safeguard humanity.
How ‘Dune: Prophecy’ Connects to the ‘Dune’ Franchise
To grasp the connection between ‘Dune: Prophecy’ and the film adaptations, it’s essential to revisit the role of the Bene Gesserit. This enigmatic organization of women possesses superhuman abilities and wields considerable influence over the ruling houses of the Dune universe.
In ‘Dune: Part One’ and ‘Dune: Part Two,’ we see the Bene Gesserit’s mission unfold, with their goal being to bring forth a messiah who can unite the Houses and redeem humanity. This messiah is expected to be Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet).
‘Dune: Prophecy’ will explore the groundwork laid by the Bene Gesserit that eventually leads to Paul’s rise, including insights into his mother, Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), who is also a member of the order and instrumental in shaping Paul’s development.
Will Timothée Chalamet Appear in ‘Dune: Prophecy’?
Since ‘Dune: Prophecy’ is set millennia before Paul Atreides’ birth, it’s unlikely that Timothée Chalamet will appear in the series. While fans may speculate about possible flashforwards or visions, the timeline doesn’t align with his character’s arc.
The show’s cast list further confirms that Chalamet will not feature in ‘Dune: Prophecy,’ as it focuses on a different era, thus steering clear of any direct connections to the characters in the films.
Conclusion: What to Expect from ‘Dune: Prophecy’
‘Dune: Prophecy’ aims to enrich the Dune universe’s lore by exploring the Bene Gesserit’s early days and their far-reaching plans. By examining the series’ timeline and its connections to the broader franchise, viewers can look forward to a fresh perspective on the intricate political and spiritual dynamics that set the stage for the events we know in ‘Dune.’
Mark your calendars for November 17 to witness the unfolding of this exciting new chapter!
About Dune Prophecy
Dune Prophecy is a direct-to-streaming TV series in development at HBO Max. Diane Ademu-John had joined the series as writer, showrunner, and executive producer. Denis Villeneuve will direct the series pilot and executive produce.
The series will serve as a prequel to the film and will take place before Dune: Part One. Set in Frank Herbert’s Dune universe, Dune: The Sisterhood is told through the eyes of a mysterious order of women known as the Bene Gesserit.
Given extraordinary abilities by their mastery of the body and the mind, the Bene Gesserit expertly weave through the feudal politics and intrigue of The Imperium, pursuing plans of their own that will ultimately lead them to the enigmatic planet Arrakis, known to its inhabitants as Dune.
No Comments on Understanding ‘Dune: Prophecy’ and Its Place in the ‘Dune’ Timeline