Two Harkonnen sisters battle forces that threaten the future of humanity and found the legendary sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit. Whether they’re exploring the stars, escaping dystopias, or making the world a better place, these women are what science fiction is all about… This series uses material from the Great Schools of Dune trilogy, by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. A prequel to the original Dune, it chronicles how the Sisterhood of Rossak evolved into the Bene Gesserit. The incident with Valya Harkonnen using her voice is from one called «Mentats of Dune.» All three books intertwine the development of the Sisterhood, the Mentats, the Navigators, and the Suk Doctors. Referenced in Crazy Cartoon Cast from AniMat: The New Normal (2020). The first episode of Dune Prophecy, HBO Max’s new foray into the world of Frank Herbert’s universe, unfortunately feels dull and uninspired. Despite its ambitious source material, the episode struggles to capture the charm and depth that make Dune so beloved. The most glaring issue is the editing. The pacing is wildly off, with scenes that feel rushed and lack the breathing room needed to build tension or atmosphere. In their effort to cram too much story into a single hour, the episode becomes a chaotic barrage of uninterrupted dialogue, sacrificing narrative flow and engagement. Moments that should have felt meaningful are undermined by hasty cuts, leaving little room for emotional or thematic resonance. Visually, Dune Prophecy suffers from a continuation of the drab, industrial aesthetic seen in recent Dune adaptations. The set and costume design feel sterile and monotonous, failing to evoke the intricate, lived-in feel of Herbert’s universe. This lack of visual and atmospheric variety diminishes the sense of wonder and alien grandeur that Dune requires. Perhaps the most disappointing aspect is the lack of effective worldbuilding. While the episode focuses heavily on expository dialogue to set up the plot, it neglects to establish the world itself. The intricate political and cultural dynamics that define Dune feel shallow, and the lack of atmospheric “vibe” is a unique experience. Ultimately, Dune Prophecy struggles to find a balance between exposition and immersion, resulting in an episode that feels more like a rushed recap than a compelling introduction to the series. Without meaningful adjustments to the pacing, editing, and worldbuilding, it risks losing the essence of what makes Dune such a rich and enduring story.