The Breakdown of “Sisterhood Above All”
The following review contains spoilers for the third episode of Dune Prophecy, “Sisterhood Above All”
“Sisterhood Above All” delves deep into the theme of consequences. Throughout the episode, characters such as Tula, Vorian Atreides, and Griffin Harkonnen face the fallout of their decisions. This exploration of cause and effect marks a successful turn for Dune: Prophecy. The episode benefits from a departure from tedious political subplots and instead focuses on the compelling backstories of the main characters, brought to life by talented actors. While the series still grapples with some of its typical pitfalls, the dramatic tension maintained in this episode hints at the potential for future success.
Standout Performances
The young cast members shine in “Sisterhood Above All.” Jessica Barden impresses as Valya, infusing the character with a mix of wisdom and rage that adds depth to the Harkonnen daughter. However, the revelation of Valya as the sole discoverer of the Voice feels a bit contrived, reminiscent of unsatisfying origin stories in other franchises. Despite this misstep, Emma Canning steals the spotlight with her portrayal of Tula, orchestrating a revenge plot that is both shocking and captivating.
Canning’s performance highlights a new side of Tula, revealing layers to her character previously unseen. As Tula navigates the aftermath of her actions, including a surprising twist involving the Thinking Machines, the audience is left on edge, eager to see how her story unfolds.
A Dark Turn
In a darker turn of events, Tula grapples with the consequences of her choices, leading to a moment of regret and introspection. As the episode closes on a chilling note, with the revelation of the Thinking Machines’ role in Tula’s plans, viewers are left with a lingering sense of unease.
Despite these intriguing developments, the episode falters in its portrayal of the Thinking Machines, failing to deliver a truly compelling depiction of their operation. Additionally, the episode teases Valya’s quest for power, setting the stage for future conflicts within House Harkonnen.