The Hidden Hand

Magnificently directed by Anna Foerster (whose cinematography background comes to the fore), the launching segment of "Dune Prophecy" sets up a severe, stately atmosphere, reminding me of costume/court dramas of old. But this is an alien world of alien beings, humanoid yes, but with hidden powers. Placing it in a time where "thinking machines" have been defeated in war and banned is crucial to giving the viewer a mindset far removed from our contemporary overload of phones and screens and constant visual pollution.

The color control is expert, with only one primary color (Red) interrupting, especially in the dramatic red gown of the princess, helping her to become the most striking presence on screen. Emily Watson's control in the leading role is immense, and the stern nature of her little world suggest the cloistered confinement of old religious films.

But it the slowly paced, heavy, heavy atmosphere and quiet dialogue that mesmerizes the viewer, allowing the sudden and brief outbursts of violence or mytstical fantasy to exert maximum power. It's the opposite, almost, of the slam-bang, gimmicky "action movie" cliches wrought by the success in recent years of so many comic strip movies with their SFPX emphasis and annoying constant editing.

The long-awaited "Dune" prequel series, "Dune: Prophecy," arrives with its premiere episode, "The Hidden Hand," and it offers a mixed but overall positive introduction to the world of the Bene Gesserit and the Imperium. This is a show that has been in development since before the first of Denis Villeneuve's epic two-part adaptation of Frank Herbert's "Dune" came out and has been in and out of development issues ever since. But now, under the leadership of Alison Schapker, it is finally ready to be seen. And while the show doesn't fully escape from first-episode growing pains, its strengths in world-building, visuals, and standout performances make it a solid beginning.

A remarkable aspect of the premiere is how seamlessly it integrates the "Dune" universe into this earlier timeline. The world-building is compelling, offering a tantalizing look at the Sisterhood's internal politics and their far-reaching influence within the Imperium. For fans of Herbert's work, the show provides intriguing glimpses into the seeds of what will later blossom into the iconic events of the novels. The series also carves out its own identity, setting itself apart while staying true to the themes of power, destiny, and manipulation that define the "Dune" saga. Visually, the show is stunning. The creative team has crafted a production that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Denis Villeneuve's films. From the austere, haunting halls of the Sisterhood's stronghold to the sweeping vistas, every frame is dripping with detail. The costumes, sets, and special effects are nothing short of cinematic, immersing viewers in a world that feels both alien and eerily familiar. At the heart of the story is Valya Harkonnen, played masterfully by Emily Watson. Valya is a character perfectly attuned to the "Dune" mythos - ambitious, morally complex, and driven by a vision of the future that demands sacrifice and ruthlessness. Watson's nuanced performance captures Valya's steely determination and moments of vulnerability, anchoring the show with gravitas. If there's a weak spot in "The Hidden Hand," it's the storytelling. While the episode excels in setting the stage, the plot feels fragmented, with key motivations and stakes not entirely clear. This lack of narrative cohesion might leave casual viewers feeling lost and even frustrate longtime fans who expect more clarity from the outset. Anna Foester's direction is solid, particularly in how she captures the mood and tone of "Dune." However, the pacing falters at times, with certain scenes lingering too long while others feel rushed. As a result, the episode doesn't always flow as smoothly as it could.

"The Hidden Hand" is a promising start for "Dune: Prophecy," despite its shortcomings in pacing and storytelling. The series captures the spirit of Herbert's universe with impressive visuals, compelling characters, and a bold exploration of the Bene Gesserit's shadowy role in shaping the Imperium. If subsequent episodes can refine the narrative and balance the pacing, the show has the potential to become a fine addition to the "Dune" franchise.

The first episode of *Dune: Prophecy* sets a captivating tone, blending political intrigue, mysticism, and stunning visuals. The intricate plot explores the rise of Paul Atreides, navigating his destiny amid the harsh desert world of Arrakis. The cinematography beautifully captures the stark yet awe-inspiring landscapes, while the cast delivers compelling performances, particularly in portraying power struggles and personal dilemmas. The episode builds tension effectively, leaving viewers eager for what's next. While newcomers may feel slightly overwhelmed by the lore, it's a promising start for fans of epic sci-fi.

Started slow but worth waiting, I hope this series turns out be one of the greatest in recent time.

I enjoyed the photography and the chance to see a new take on Dune, but I feel the series misses key elements of Herbert's universe. The Voice, for example, is shown as a sudden power rather than the result of generations of genetic selection and training, which undermines the science-based approach of the Bene Gesserit. The portrayal of the Spacing Guild also falls short. Interstellar travel was supposed to be incredibly difficult at this point, requiring spice and years of exposure to develop the navigators. They were just replacing space travel by computers with space travel by spice. Moving between planets wasn't something a lone soldier could easily accomplish or be able to pay. The same goes for that fremen working the bar in another planet. People don't travel as easily as moving from one city to another. The series also makes the world feel stagnant, as if society hasn't advanced in 10,000 years, despite technological limitations like the prohibition of computers.

Finally, elements like characters with sudden new powers or the inclusion of cocaine feel out of place and disconnected from Dune's established lore. You can't add something like that to a prequel as it instantly creates a plot hole for the future portrayed in the original material. These creative liberties risk alienating fans while failing to properly explain the intricacies of the universe to newcomers. I hope future episodes dive deeper into the complexities of spice, the Guild, and the Bene Gesserit's manipulations to truly capture the richness of the story.

The first episode of Dune: Prophecy is an impressive introduction to what promises to be a remarkable series. The visuals are breathtaking, with stunning graphics that truly bring the Dune universe to life. The soundtrack is equally remarkable, perfectly capturing the epic and mysterious tone of the story.

What stands out the most, however, is the intriguing narrative. It's layered, engaging, and full of potential, offering a deep dive into the rich lore of the Dune universe. Fans of sci-fi and newcomers alike will find themselves drawn in.

A must-watch for anyone who appreciates great storytelling, immersive world-building, and top-tier production quality. Can't wait for the next episode.