Should we watch Dune Prophecy, the Max series inspired by the world of Frank Herbert?

In need of machinations at the Game of Thrones ? The Max platform offers from this Monday Dune Prophecywhich brings together the same ingredients (rival ruling families, zealots, a touch of the supernatural) while returning to the sources of Frank Herbert's universe. Riding on the theatrical success of Denis Villeneuve's films, led by Timothée Chalamet (Paul Atréides) and Zendaya (Chani), this series takes place 10,000 years ago in an empire where artificial intelligence has just been banned. And sheds light from another angle on the ancestral hatred between the courageous and idealistic Atreides and the cruel and totalitarian Harkonnens.

Dune Prophecy chronicles the rise of the mysterious priestesses of the mystical order of the Bene Gesserit. Draped in black, these advisors to noble families, witches on the edges, are renowned for their ability to detect lies. Still in its infancy, the organization is led by the intractable Harkonnen sisters, Valya and Tula, who are trying to redeem the family honor lost in the war against the machines. Their influence with the emperor, in a difficult political and matrimonial situation, is shaken by the irruption of a Rasputin-like figure. Former soldier who survived an attack on Arrakis, Desmond Hart (Travis Fimmel, Vikings) loathes the Bene Gesserit and their hidden eugenic agenda. Her lethal powers rival those of priestesses.

Oppressive decorations

Brutal and breathtaking game of chess and powerDune Prophecy delights in amoral characters, driven by rage and revenge, convinced of working for the good of humanity. Assassination, massacres, spontaneous combustion punctuate these six episodes with horrifying overtones. The spectacular battles of the feature films are followed by an insidious and subdued mental war. Rather than exploring the lush or desolate landscapes of the new planets she unveils, showrunner Alison Schapker weaves an atmosphere independent of that of Villeneuve and locks her characters in oppressive corridors and apartments.

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« I wanted to explore the relationship between individuals and the institutions to which they submit and how over time these organizations shape society. To what extent the Bene Gesserit adhere to the principles of their order or pursue their own goals through them ? Differences of opinion coupled with complex family ties promised fertile groundentrusted to Figaro the screenwriter. Valya and Tula have a tragic past which has sharpened their anger, their desire for recognition. The Bene Gesserit offer them the ideal setting. At the same time, they sincerely believe they are working for a better future and influence the leaders of tomorrow. Science fiction keeps bringing us back to the same question : what is the lesser evil ? »

This dive into the mythology of Dune brings about a surprising reversal of values. The Atreides make up the numbers. The hated Harkonnens become wronged but visionary heroes. The Shakespearean interpretation of Emily Watson (Valya) and Olivia Williams (Tula) has a lot to do with it. The first has everything of the frenzied guru « ready for the worst for peace and prosperity which transforms the truth into a commodity like any other and unbalances the balance of power by disseminating rumors ». The submission and reserve of the second are even more chilling. « Tula has a scientific mind and knows how to be creative in eliminating her targets. She is a cadet who has learned to step aside and internalize her fury. But we must be wary of stagnant water, warns Olivia Williams. Just because your conscience assaults you and you cry as you give the final blow doesn't make you a good person. »