Many fans have been drawing comparisons between ‘Dune: Prophecy’ and ‘Game of Thrones’, as it is a show known for its political drama and epic battles. However, the cast and creators of the show don’t share the same sentiment.
They assert that while the two shows share some thematic similarities, their focus on women at the center of the story sets them apart in a significant way. Moreover, the series will serve as a prequel to the 2021 ‘Dune’ film. It will explore the origins of the powerful Bene Gesserit sisterhood, set 10,000 years before the events of the movie.
‘Dune: Prophecy’ Has Two Female Protagonists And Revolves Around Their Sisterhood
In the interviews leading up to the show’s release, both Olivia Williams and Emily Watson made it clear that the central relationship in ‘Dune: Prophecy’ revolves around two women. They believe that this sole factor sets the show apart from ‘Game of Thrones’.
While ‘Game of Thrones’ features many strong female characters, the women often find themselves entangled in the power struggles of their male counterparts. In contrast, the protagonists of ‘Dune: Prophecy’, Tula and Valya Harkonnen, are at the heart of the narrative.
“The main protagonists in this are women. It’s centered around this sisterhood, and I think that makes it unique and interesting,” Watson told Comicbook. However, both Watson and Williams were quick to clarify that their characters are not traditional “feminist icons.” They’re not presented as models of virtue or ideals, but rather complex women with their own flaws, desires, and ambitions.
“It’s very much a question of don’t do this at home,” Watson said. “But great for us to have that range to play with.Their characters may not be role models, but they do provide a depth and range rarely seen in female-driven narratives,” she added. Moreover, the two actresses emphasized that the series also reflects the human complexities found in history itself.
‘Dune: Prophecy’ Takes A Lot Of Inspiration From Real-World Historical Events
Though ‘Dune: Prophecy’ is a science fiction epic set in a distant future, the themes explored in the series are deeply rooted in history. The show draws from real-world dynastic struggles. It emphasizes the fact that women have often wielded power in subtle but significant ways, balancing love, loyalty, and betrayal.
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The characters’ internal and external conflicts will mirror those found in historical narratives. Moreover, the Harkonnen sisters’ complex relationship with one another and their shared trauma is central to the show’s emotional core. Showrunner Alison Schapker also spoke about the bond between Valya and Tula.
“There is a bit of that relatable older sibling driving things overtly, and younger sibling feeling maybe a bit diminished,” Alison explained. This family connection isn’t just about love and loyalty; it’s about power, control, and survival.
‘Dune: Prophecy’ premieres on HBO on November 17 with a fresh, female-centric take on the ‘Dune’ universe.
