Mentioned in the crazy cartoon cast of AniMat: The New Normal (2020)
Line of Events
The two Harkonnen sisters fight against the forces that threaten the future of humanity and founded the legendary sect known as the Bene Gesserit. Whether they’re exploring the stars, escaping dystopia, 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, telling the story of how the Rossak sisters became Bene Gesserit. The instance where Valya Harkonnen uses her voice comes from an event called “The Mentats of Dune.” All three books intertwine in the development of the Sisterhood, the Mentati, the Navigators, and the Bitch Doctors.
Visually, it’s stunning
Let’s be clear: opposition to perceived “DEI policies”; This series is not only tiresome, it’s also fundamentally flawed. Anyone familiar with Frank Herbert’s Dune universe knows that women, and particularly the Sisterhood, have always been central to the story. This isn’t a modern “rewrite” to appease the audience—it’s ingrained in the DNA of the story. Complaining about women in power is like criticizing sand for performing in the desert. If that makes you uncomfortable, you should consider why. So let’s focus on what’s most important: the series itself.
Binoculars feels ambitious yet intimate, mixing big, sweeping shots with more intimate, tightly framed moments
The art direction honors the bold aesthetic of Denis Villeneuve’s films and creates a seamless visual connection to the larger Dune universe. Sure, the CGI occasionally shows its budget constraints, but the overall design is so sharp and deliberate that it doesn’t really matter. It’s not perfect, but it’s close enough to feel like a part of it. The writing isn’t as philosophically dense as the Dune saga, but it respects the intelligence of its audience. It doesn’t simplify or dilute the complexity of Herbert’s world for the benefit of newcomers. Instead, it leans into the power dynamics and political intrigue that make The Order so compelling.
It’s a cerebral, slow-burn narrative that rewards attention without becoming self-indulgent
The last 20 minutes of the first episode in particular offer a thrill and triumph that captures the spirit of Dune at its best, engrossing and quietly monumental. What sets this series apart is the way it uses The Order to explore another dimension of the sprawling Dune universe. The political machinations are more visible and central here, offering a fresh perspective on the currents of power that often drive the larger narrative. It has shades of early Game of Thrones , but with a distinct Dune sensibility: less gratuitous, more thoughtful, and deeply connected to the philosophical questions that define Herbert’s work. The cast is a compelling mix of seasoned performers and rising stars, and several standout performances foreshadow bigger 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.
Trust me, the effort is worth it
This isn’t a watered-down reimagining—it’s a serious and ambitious continuation of the world he built. It’s true that for newcomers, the dense story and dark politics can be daunting, but for fans of Villeneuve’s books and films, that’s part of the appeal. For those already invested in Dune , this series feels like a significant expansion—a chance to delve deeper into the nuances of Herbert’s universe. If you’re new, it’s a valuable starting point, though you may have to work a little harder to keep up.
