Alt.review: Dune: Prophecy (HBO USA, Sky Atlantic UK)
Dune: Prophecy on Sky Atlantic embraces the monumental task of adapting Frank Herbert’s legendary science fiction epic for television. Following Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic masterpiece and David Lynch’s divisive 1984 adaptation, this series seeks to carve out its own niche. But does it succeed, or is it just another mirage in the desert of Dune retellings?
The Format: Deep Dive or Dragging Pace?
Television offers Dune: Prophecy a distinct advantage—time. The episodic format allows for intricate exploration of the politics of Arrakis, the Bene Gesserit’s manipulative schemes, and the ecological stakes of spice mining. Fans of Herbert’s books will revel in the detail, but the slower pace may alienate casual viewers.
Where Villeneuve emphasized grand cinematic scope and Lynch condensed the chaos into surreal storytelling, Prophecy opts for deliberate pacing. While this lends depth to characters like Lady Jessica and a richer portrayal of Fremen culture, it risks testing viewers’ patience with drawn-out scenes that sometimes feel indulgent.
Paul Atreides: A Hero Reimagined
The portrayal of Paul Atreides is a key differentiator. Where Timothée Chalamet’s Paul was a charismatic blend of reluctant heir and budding messiah, Prophecy leans heavily into his internal struggle. This version of Paul feels more vulnerable, burdened by the weight of prophecy, and truer to Herbert’s original vision.
While some may find this introspection refreshing, others might miss the magnetism that made Chalamet’s performance so compelling. The gamble pays off in emotionally charged moments but falters when Paul’s doubt drags pivotal scenes.
Arrakis Reimagined: Harsh and Intimate
The series’ depiction of Arrakis stands out. The desert is presented as an unforgiving and dangerous force, capturing its hostility better than the romanticized sands of Villeneuve’s films. However, the trade-off is a scaled-down aesthetic. Intimate, grounded sets replace sweeping vistas, offering a more functional, lived-in look that appeals to purists but lacks cinematic grandeur.
Supporting Cast: Shining Moments
The supporting characters are a highlight. Stilgar, the Fremen leader, receives a richer narrative arc, aligning more closely with Herbert’s depiction. His leadership and pragmatism shine in ways underexplored in previous adaptations.
Lady Jessica, however, sparks debate. While her expanded role as a Bene Gesserit operative adds intrigue, it sometimes sidelines her maternal depth, leaving fans of Rebecca Ferguson’s nuanced portrayal in Villeneuve’s films longing for more balance.
Themes: True to the Source
Dune: Prophecy excels in honoring Herbert’s core themes: ecological warnings, colonial critiques, and the interplay of religion and power. However, these themes are more subtly woven into Villeneuve’s films, while Prophecy makes them explicit through dialogue and character dynamics. This approach rewards dedicated fans but may feel heavy-handed to others.
Production Design and Sound: Mixed Results
While the series’ detailed production design captures the functional essence of Arrakis, it lacks the iconic visual splendor of Villeneuve’s adaptations. Similarly, the sound design and score, though competent, fail to evoke the emotional resonance of Hans Zimmer’s unforgettable compositions.
Final Thoughts
Dune: Prophecy is a bold attempt to bring Frank Herbert’s vision to the small screen. It’s a treasure trove of detail for fans of the book, with nuanced characters and a commitment to the source material. However, its slower pace and understated design may not appeal to casual viewers or those seeking the grandeur of Villeneuve’s films.
The question remains: Should Dune adaptations always be judged against their predecessors? Perhaps Prophecy deserves credit for telling its story on its own terms. If you have the patience, it’s a rewarding—if imperfect—journey through the sands of Arrakis.
Written by Jonathan Glazier
A seasoned media consultant and multi-camera TV director, Jonathan brings decades of global experience in creating, producing, and directing innovative formats. Drawing on insights from the cutting edge of television and media trends, he offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today.
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