The Shakesperian and tricky galaxy of Dune is expanding in a big way with Dune: Prophecy, a new prequel series that connects to Denis Villeneuve’s popular movies. Frank Herbert’s epic sci-fi universe is known for having complex characters and intense political drama.
This same dramatic style seems to be fully present in Dune: Prophecy. Many people might wonder if they need to know anything about the Dune franchise from the books or films to enjoy this new series since it is deeply rooted in stories and background.
Fortunately, showrunner and executive producer Alison Schapker provided a clear answer about whether someone needs to be a big Dune fan to appreciate Dune: Prophecy.
What is ‘Dune: Prophecy’ About?
During an interview with Steve Weintraub from Collider at New York Comic Con, she, along with her co-executive producer Jordan Goldberg and the stars of the show, Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, and Travis Fimmel, discussed the upcoming series.
When asked how they avoid “watering down” the source material, Schapker explained that Dune: Prophecy is designed to be accessible for both long-time fans and new viewers.
Schapker stated, “Dune is so dense, it’s so well thought out, it’s so vivid, and it wouldn’t be Dune unless we embrace that aspect of it.
It goes back to what the cast is saying. When you try and ground everything through character, I do believe it becomes more understandable.”
She emphasized that the show tries to have multiple levels of storytelling. This means that whether you have never seen the movies or read the books, you can still connect with the characters and understand the world.
For those who are familiar with the franchise, the show aims to offer a rich and exciting experience that honors the depth of the original material. Schapker mentioned, “That was really a needle we tried to thread quite consciously.”
So, what is Dune: Prophecy about? The series is set ten thousand years before the events of the 2021 film and before Paul Atreides’ (played by Timothée Chalamet) rise to power on the desert planet Arrakis.
In this time, the mysterious group known as the Bene Gesserit is working behind the scenes to create the prophecy that leads to the events of the movie.
Schapker explained more about the series in her interview, saying, “This show is about the origin of the Bene Gesserit, the sisters you might have seen in Denis [Villeneuve]’s movies if you watch them.”
The story is set during a unique period in history. Schapker pointed out that they are in the shadow of The Great Machine Wars.
Humans have defeated artificial intelligence, and thinking machines are now banned. As a result, humanity is rebuilding after a time of chaos. Schapker humorously described this era as “the Dark Ages of Dune.”
During this time, various great schools are emerging, and one of these is the sisterhood of the Bene Gesserit. The series will show how they rose to power and what challenges they faced along the way.
Dune: Prophecy is set to premiere this November, exclusively on Max. While waiting for the new series, viewers can catch up on the first two Dune films, which are also currently streaming on Max.
