Dune Franchise: Books, Movies, TV Shows, and Everything You Need to Know

What Does the Dune Franchise Consist Of?

The Dune franchise , a saga originally envisioned by Frank Herbert, tells a tale of those that have a profound connection to the planet: Arrakis. The series is comprised of six core novels, spanning a vast collection of stories and exploring an array of powerful figures, such as Paul Atreides (a prominent figure who becomes known as the Lisan al Gaib who serves as the focal point for the events in the series, along with a large assortment of other characters - each bringing their own unique story), the Sisterhood, and those seeking the spice.

Those familiar with this franchise might also recognize those who appear across the numerous adaptations - for example, the movie released in 1984 that was directed by David Lynch - starring Kyle MacLachlan as Paul. While there was a limited series released around the turn of the millennium ( in the early 2000s), the current production (consisting of two installments so far - Dune , Dune: Part Two, starring Timothée Chalamet as Paul - Zendaya as Chani - and other figures who serve as powerful figures: Christopher Walken as the Emperor - and Austin Butler who was introduced as a key antagonist, Feyd-Rautha), is considered to be one of the biggest and most highly acclaimed adaptations - showcasing the complex lore, stories and even those iconic figures who appear across a vast number of stories.

What Is Dune About?

The Dune novel was originally written in 1965. Those fans that have followed the storyline through the book (Dune novel ) have recognized that it often goes beyond those classic science fiction novels by showcasing its incredible complexity as an expansive and well-structured narrative. Its themes, especially when it explores the spice and its ability to extend life as well as the battle against power, have often made this franchise a key and influential series that is often sought out by many of those in the world of literature and by lovers of the Dune franchise. There's also a plethora of characters.

Paul Atreides (and his relationship with the Sisterhood and the power they hold - often called the Bene Gesserit) - a strong storyline in Denis Villeneuve Dune, the latest installment, who have a deep connection to Arrakis (a harsh desert planet). Their ambitions for power and how they must face the dark powers of those who would use the holy war as a way to expand their control, especially as they seek to harness the powers that exist in the universe.

What Happens In Dune: Messiah?

Those familiar with the Dune franchise will find that Dune: Messiah (an extension of the series) and Dune are distinct parts. It tells the story of Paul’s struggles to overcome his destiny, as a being that has been able to tap into the Lisan al Gaib.

Even though a second production - Denis Villeneuve Dune (Dune: Part Two), will likely serve as a conclusion to the original Dune book, Dune: Messiah will likely be viewed as a distinct, new film production (though there has been no release date, but many believe it could potentially be set after Dune: Part Two has had its premiere and fans can begin their anticipation) as an addition that may continue to build upon a world with those stories that explore its universes, characters (specifically Paul and his wife: Irulan played by Florence Pugh in Denis Villeneuve Dune, those in the Sisterhood of Dune and those that appear in the television series Dune TV series such as in Dune: Prophecy a spinoff set to be released in 2024, an additional facet of the series), as well as those moments of intrigue - and it will continue to re-introduce the complex narratives, battles and struggles that were set at the heart of the first production - it may also include a "more intense" level of depth and, perhaps, a few twists in how this universe evolves.

What Does the Sisterhood Of Dune Consist Of?

Within Dune there are numerous factions - those who fight to control the spice (those individuals that seek out an abundance of power), or perhaps they are seeking to establish dominion. The Bene Gesserit (often described as a group of powerful women that can harness the power of the Force) is also known as the Sisterhood.

Fans can often watch those that seek out the powers within this franchise, who strive for a sense of domination in the universe. Those familiar with this universe, and Denis Villeneuve's Dune (which takes an innovative approach in creating this epic vision, as it often does when seeking out other sci-fi projects, such as Arrival), might notice how the Sisterhood of Dune often seeks out those characters with unique traits - they’re often the ones that have those powerful genetic links - and a sense of prophecy that might influence those events in the Dune series.

Is the Dune TV Series Coming Out Soon?

Although Dune has an enormous amount of fans - particularly those who enjoy science fiction epics - there is a plethora of opportunities to expand this story - from Movies and books to television.

The series does have a planned Dune TV series, called Dune: Prophecy - which will expand on one of the major themes in Dune. It will focus on the Sisterhood. This is a separate story arc that will also explore more elements of the Dune universe. As an addition, this could serve as a key expansion of the story and how the characters of the Dune book are able to further enhance those roles in the overall story.

How Is the Dune TV Show Connected To The Movies?

Even though the two productions (Dune TV Series and the Dune film series), may be set in the same world - and have a shared lore - they are viewed as separate productions and with a distinctive connection. The first part (which features Timothée Chalamet Dune, those characters that appear in Denis Villeneuve Dune), is based upon the first part of the Dune novel. This allows viewers to appreciate those main events in the universe, a complex and elaborate tale that features Paul Atreides.

With the television series Dune TV series - it seems as if this is a way to provide an expanded, perhaps even a much greater scope for the world. Its events center around the Sisterhood and its importance to the events within Dune, especially the power it wields, making it a significant element that often is found in those key storylines within Dune: Prophecy - those fans of the universe are also eagerly waiting to see what’s next.

What Does the ‘Lisan al Gaib’ Mean?

Those that follow the events of Dune will have a familiarity with those characters who play an important role in this story.

A notable one: Paul Atreides (a central figure who is the heir to the throne). Paul becomes a Lisan al Gaib as part of the overall journey within Dune: Messiah - this can be considered a major event that takes shape. In many ways, Paul will begin a journey toward understanding his destiny - in the context of Dune - one that will challenge his identity, how those characters view him - specifically the Bene Gesserit and those that work toward gaining control in the universe. Those seeking to make a stronger connection will also notice how it reflects the larger themes within Dune: Messiah. It emphasizes those struggles associated with control, ambition, and those actions that can easily take a person to dark places - a journey to understand Paul’s position in the universe.

What Were Dune: Movie Reviews Like?

Dune, (a highly anticipated production, with both Denis Villeneuve as director and Timothée Chalamet as Paul, the production has earned widespread appreciation, in the form of critical and even a huge amount of box office success).

Although Dune: Part Two was recently released in late 2023, the movie's first production received high marks. With a 90% rating (according to Rotten Tomatoes, and based on a wide array of critical and even audience reviews) - its potential was recognized by the Academy and many others, including awards that helped showcase how its impact on cinema, as a modern version of Dune - has helped to make it one of the greatest adaptations for the Dune franchise.