The second teaser of HBO Max's "Dune: Prophecy," a prequel series to Denis Villeneuve's blockbuster "Dune" movies, has been unveiled, providing a glimpse of Bollywood star Tabu in her role as Sister Francesca. Released by the Warner Bros Discovery-owned streamer on Thursday evening, the teaser also announced that the six-episode series is set to premiere in November this year.
Tabu, an internationally acclaimed actress known for her work in "The Namesake," "Life of Pi," and the BBC miniseries "A Suitable Boy," makes a striking appearance towards the end of the teaser. Her character, Sister Francesca, is described as "strong, intelligent, and alluring," a figure who leaves a lasting impression. According to the series' creators, "Once a great love of the Emperor, her return to the palace strains the balance of power in the capital."
Set 10,000 years before the events of Frank Herbert's seminal novel "Dune," which Villeneuve recently adapted into two films released in 2021 and 2023, "Dune: Prophecy" dives deep into the lore of the "Dune" universe. The films featured Charlotte Rampling as Reverend Mother Mohiam, the Emperor's Bene Gesserit Truthsayer, and Rebecca Ferguson as Lady Jessica, the Bene Gesserit mother of protagonist Paul, played by Timothee Chalamet.
First look at Indian actress Tabu in #HBO Original series DUNE: Prophecy as Bene Gesserit Sister Francesca. #DuneProphecy pic.twitter.com/Ctt523oTiA
— 𝐑. Å𝐥í | Secrets of Dune (@SecretsOfDune) July 18, 2024
"Dune: Prophecy," based on the novel "Sisterhood of Dune" by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, was previously titled "Dune: The Sisterhood." The official logline reveals that the show will follow two Harkonnen sisters as they combat forces threatening the future of humankind and establish the fabled sect known as the Bene Gesserit.
The series boasts a stellar cast, including Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Mark Strong, Sarah-Sofie Boussnina, Jessica Barden, and Shalom Brune-Franklin. Alison Schapker serves as the showrunner and executive producer, along with Diane Ademu-John, who co-developed the series. "Dune: Prophecy" is a co-production between HBO and Legendary Television.
With its richly woven narrative and powerful performances, "Dune: Prophecy" promises to be a compelling addition to the "Dune" saga, further expanding the universe and delving into the origins of the Bene Gesserit. Fans of the franchise can look forward to an enthralling journey through the intricate and mysterious world of "Dune" when the series premieres later this year.
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