Chronology
Two Harkonnen sisters battle forces that threaten the future of humanity and form a legendary sect that would become known as the Bene Gesserit. Whether they’re exploring the stars, escaping a dystopia, or making the world a better place, these women are science fiction. This series draws on material from Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson’s Great Schools of Dune trilogy. The original Dune prequel tells the story of how the Brotherhood of Rosak evolved into the Bene Gesserit. The incident with Valya Harkonnen, using voiceover, is from one called “Mentats of Dune.” The development of the Brotherhood, Mentats, Navigators, and Brush Doctors intertwine throughout all three books. Referenced in AniMat’s Crazy Cartoon Cast: The New Normal (2020). I wanted to keep it short and to the point, but I felt compelled to expand on my thoughts. So here it is. There was a time when writers knew how to weave exposition into the narrative without feeling forced and contrived. I understand it’s the first episode, but they have to present everything as if it’s not common knowledge. Watson (Valya), Mark Strong (Emperor), Travis Fimmel (Hart), and Sarah-Sophie Bousnin (Princess) give good performances. I feel like the show is in good hands. The other characters didn’t interest me. They move the story forward, but are forgettable. I guess we’ll see how it develops. I had a hard time keeping my attention in the first episode. It felt like it was part of a whole that couldn’t be separated. I’ll wait until the whole season is over before I start shooting more episodes. They did a wonderful job on the visuals. The CGI is high quality, the costumes are perfect, the tone of Villeneuve’s vision is maintained and expanded. The art department should win awards for how beautiful it looks.