42/17
Anderson’s Dune
Plot
A television series set in the “Dune” universe centered on the lives of the Bene Gesserit. Whether they’re exploring the stars, escaping dystopias, or making the world a better place, these women are the stuff of science fiction in Brian Herbert and Kevin J. A prequel to the original Dune , this is the first in a trilogy of the Great Schools of Dune stories about the evolution of the Rossak Order into the Bene Gesserit. Let’s be clear: the backlash against perceived “DEI policies” is not only tiresome in this series, it’s fundamentally wrong. Anyone familiar with Frank Herbert’s Dune universe knows that women, and the Order in particular, have always played a key role in this story. This isn’t some modern “rewrite” to appease the audience—it’s written into the very DNA of the story.
Visually, it’s stunning
Complaining about women in power here is like criticizing sand for appearing in the desert. If that makes you uncomfortable, it’s worth considering why. That said, let’s focus on what’s important: the series itself. The art direction pays homage to the bold aesthetic rooted in Denis Villeneuve’s films, creating a seamless visual connection to the larger Dune universe. Luneta feels ambitious yet intimate, mixing gorgeous, sweeping shots with more personal, tightly framed moments. Sure, the CGI occasionally shows its budget constraints, but the overall design is so sharp and thoughtful that it doesn’t really matter.
It’s a cerebral, slow-burn narrative that rewards attention without feeling overly self-indulgent
It’s not perfect, but it’s close enough to provide a sense of immersion. The writing, while not as philosophically dense as the core Dune saga, respects the intelligence of its audience. It doesn’t oversimplify or dilute the complexity of Herbert’s world to cater to newcomers. Instead, it leans into the power dynamics and political intrigue that make The Sisterhood so compelling. The last 20 minutes of the first episode, in particular, provide a level of tension and payoff that captures the spirit of Dune at its best, gripping and quietly monumental. What sets this series apart is the way it uses the Sisterhood to explore another dimension of the sprawling Dune universe.
Trust me, the effort is worth it
The political machinations are more central here, offering a fresh perspective on the undercurrents of power that often drive the larger narrative. It has shades of early Game of Thrones , but with a distinctly Dune sensibility: less gratuitous, more thoughtful, and deeply connected to the philosophical issues that define Herbert’s performers and rising stars, with a few standout performances that foreshadow greater things to come. As for the adaptation itself, it’s clear that the creators have taken great care not to compromise the integrity of Herbert’s vision. This isn’t a watered-down reimagining—this is a serious, ambitious continuation of the world he built. It’s true that for newcomers, the dense plot and dark politics can be off-putting, but for fans of Villeneuve’s books and films, it’s part of the opportunity the expansion presents to delve deeper into the nuances of Herbert’s universe. If you’re new, this is a good starting point, though you may have to work a little harder to keep up.
After all, growth begins with asking the hard questions
To the critics who cling to outdated critiques: strong female protagonists aren’t a threat to the story—they’re its foundation. Maybe instead of getting mad at them, take a moment to reconsider why their strength feels like a challenge.
