36/19
Two Harkonnen sisters battle forces that threaten the future of humanity and establish 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 tells how the Rossak Sisterhood evolved into the Bene Gesserit. The incident with Valya Harkonnen using the voice is from one called ‘Mentats of Dune’. The three books intertwine the development of the Sisterhood, the Mentats, the Navigators, and the Suk Doctors. Referenced in AniMat’s Crazy Cartoon Cast: The New Normal (2020). I wanted to keep it short and to the point, but felt compelled to expand on my thoughts. So here goes. There was a time when the writers knew how to weave exposition into the narrative without it feeling forced or contrived. I understand that it’s a first episode, but do they have to explain everything as if it’s not public knowledge? Watson (Valya), Mark Strong (Emperor), Travis Fimmel (Hart), and Sarah-Sofie Boussnina (Princess) all give good performances. I feel like the show is in good hands. The rest of the characters left me disinterested. They advance the story but are forgettable. I guess we’ll see how it develops. I found it difficult to stay focused on the first episode. It seemed to be part of a whole that can’t be divided. I’ll wait for the full season before consuming more episodes. They did a wonderful job with the visuals. The computer special effects are high quality, the costumes are perfect, the tone of Villeneuve’s vision is maintained and expanded. The art department should get awards for how beautiful it looks.