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.
