Should you get into Dune: Prophecy? (critical)

If you liked Denis Villeneuve's films at the cinema, there is no need to hesitate: this new spin-off series (on Max) extends the saga in the form of a rich and impressive political prequel, ostensibly leaning towards a certain Game of Thrones.

Paul Atréides leaves the place. The world of Dune extends beyond Timothée Chalamet And Zendaya. And riding the insatiable worm that has devoured more than a billion dollars in cinema (in two films), Warner Bros. dives deeper into the saga of Frank Herberttaking a closer look at the Bene Gesserit, an inscrutable religious order that whispers in the ear of the powerful, in a spin-off series entitled Dune: Prophecyto be seen on Max in France from this Monday, November 18.

Approximately 10,000 years before the exploits of Paul Atreides, the Imperium had just been born. After a war against machines which almost decimated humanity (yes, way Terminator), a new power is being established around House Corrino. But in the shadows, a sorority intends to exert all its influence. Led by Mother Superior Valya Harkonnen, she forms a network of spies who pull the strings behind the lords, playing on their unique talent: detecting truth from lies…

Taking as a basis “The Sisterhood” – a novel co-written by the son, Brian Herbert – Dune: Prophecy dramatically broadens the spectrum of films. In breathtaking settings, we discover the scale of the Imperium and the immense mythology that accompanies it. Of exceptional richness, the universe of Dune unfolds brilliantly in a very political saga, somewhere between the juggernaut Game of Thrones – towards whom ostensibly leers this Prophecy – and the improbable success of Foundation (adapted from Isaac Asimov's enormous cycle) – who she probably looks more like.

Like its two models, this total science fiction series is resolutely demanding. Undeniably dense, it multiplies the characters in a somewhat cold manner, to the point of sometimes becoming tedious to follow. Not to say exhausting. Especially since there are no dragons here to add a touch of hot spectacle. Dune: Prophecy can't hope to match Villeneuve's cinematic aesthetic prowess and the action proves quite meager.

So it is in the complex political and ethical contests that the heart of Prophecy. The decorum is worth the effort. Because the universe of Dune is truly fascinating. Little by little, the characters at the center of the power struggles take their place and nourish the story. Fortunately the production found the suitable casting: facing the emperor Mark Strongwe find a Emily Watson inhabited. The English actress Breaking the Waves And Chernobyl makes a space nun as disturbing as she is captivating. The saga is well and truly underway. The ways of Frank Herbert are decidedly impenetrable.

Dune: Prophecy, season 1 in 6 episodes, to watch on Max in France from November 18, 2024.