Ep.1: The Hidden Hand with Showrunner Alison Schapker, EP/Writer Jordan Goldberg, and Actor Emily Watson

The Official Dune: Prophecy Podcast - Episode 1 Summary: "The Hidden Hand"

Release Date: November 18, 2024

Introduction

In the premiere episode of The Official Dune: Prophecy Podcast, hosted by Ahmed Ali Akbar and Greta Johnson, listeners are invited to delve deep into the newly launched HBO Original series, Dune: Prophecy. This episode, titled "The Hidden Hand," features insightful conversations with key figures behind the series: Showrunner and Executive Producer Allison Schapker, Executive Producer and Writer Jordan Goldberg, and Actor Emily Watson, who portrays the enigmatic sister Valya Harkonnen. Produced by Max Podcasts and Pineapple Street Studios, this episode provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the intricate world of Dune: Prophecy.

Episode Recap

The discussion kicks off with a detailed recap of the series' first episode. Hosts Akbar and Johnson outline the foundational events that set the stage for the unfolding drama:

Mother Superior Valya and Sister Tula are introduced as pivotal figures within the Sisterhood, meticulously orchestrating a royal marriage to place Princess Inez on the throne, thereby gaining control over the Imperium.
The carefully laid plans face disruption on Salusa Secundus, the Emperor Corrino’s home planet, when a mysterious soldier from Arrakis, Desmond Hart, brutally murders both the groom-to-be and Kasha, a Sisterhood member allied with House Corrino.

Greta Johnson encapsulates the suspense, remarking, "This leaves us with a great many questions, especially, who the heck is Desmond Hart? And is a reckoning coming?" ([01:55]).

Insights from Showrunner and Writers

Allison Schapker on Opening Narration

Allison Schapker discusses the strategic choice to open the episode with a voiceover narration that sets the historical context:

"There was a real feeling, and I mean, this was part of threading that needle where you wanted Dune fans to come on board, but also open up a space for people who maybe are not as familiar with the basic premise of the world." ([09:02])

This approach aims to balance catering to longtime Dune enthusiasts while welcoming newcomers to the saga.

Jordan Goldberg on Character Backstories

Jordan Goldberg shares his personal connection to the Dune universe, tracing his journey from playing the influential 1992 video game Dune 2 to immersing himself in the 1984 Dune movie. His appreciation for world-building shines through as he explains how meticulous details in storytelling can shape a compelling narrative universe.

Character Analysis

Valya Harkonnen (Emily Watson)

Emily Watson provides an in-depth look into her portrayal of Valya Harkonnen, a character steeped in complexity and ambition:

"Valya is a natural leader. She's very straightforward in a way. She doesn't feel she needs to enter into any kind of social contract with anybody unless she wants something from them." ([37:59])

Watson emphasizes the duality of Valya's nature—both fiercely independent and deeply connected to her sister, Tula. She describes their relationship as one filled with "strong familial bonds... [yet] they irritate the shit out of each other." ([41:40])

Sister Dorotea

The schism within the Sisterhood is highlighted through the conflict between Valya and Dorotea (Riquella Berto, Anarul's granddaughter):

"Dorotea... unlocked truth sense. So she is someone who did push the boundaries of what it means to be human forward." ([18:10])

This ideological rift sets the stage for internal power struggles that will shape the Imperium's future.

Thematic Exploration

Truth vs. Lies

A central theme discussed is the Sisterhood’s role in discerning truth from falsehood:

"One of the big themes of this show being that idea of sifting truth from lies. And that's what, obviously one of the things that, like, the sisterhood is so good at doing." ([10:53])

Schapker and Goldberg delve into the political implications of this theme, drawing parallels to real-world politics where truth is often manipulated for power.

The Power of the Voice

The Voice—a signature ability of the Sisterhood—is explored as both a tool and a weapon:

"The voice is such an iconic power and the fact that it was used within the sisterhood, sister to sister in this kind of foundational crime..." ([21:06])

Watson discusses her approach to portraying the Voice, likening it to a "laser beam of sound" that commands and compels without physical force.

Key Moments and Character Development

Valya’s Bold Act Using the Voice

One of the most shocking moments in the first episode is Valya using the Voice to compel Dorotea to commit suicide:

"I wanna talk about that moment and how you thought the audience would react to it because it is a very shocking thing the way it happens." ([20:18])

Schapker reflects on this pivotal scene, highlighting its significance in establishing the morally ambiguous nature of the Sisterhood:

"It just really is a bold way to sort of, I think, stake. To plant that first stake in the ground for the show..." ([21:06])

Desmond Hart’s Mysterious Intentions

The enigmatic Desmond Hart emerges as a linchpin in the story’s tension:

"Desmond Hart is about telling the truth... But there’s a very strong omission there. So I don’t know if that qualifies as a lie or not." ([28:05])

Goldberg describes Desmond as a "Rasputin-like" character, whose true intentions remain veiled, adding layers of intrigue to the narrative.

Emily Watson on Portraying Valya Harkonnen

Watson shares her journey into the role, emphasizing the challenges and nuances of bringing Valya to life:

"The sisterhood agenda is much more important than any of the players that they're supposedly supporting." ([46:49])

She draws inspiration from historical figures like Elizabeth I, infusing Valya with a blend of cold, strategic power and deep-seated emotional turmoil.

Behind the Scenes: Production Insights

Collaboration Between Schapker and Goldberg

Schapker and Goldberg discuss their collaborative process, rooted in mutual respect for each other’s attention to detail and commitment to authentic world-building:

"Allison, it struck me because, you know, the thing about Westworld... she really got into the minutia things, and that’s about respecting the iPad." ([06:36])

This synergy ensures that Dune: Prophecy remains faithful to the intricate lore of the Dune universe while introducing fresh narrative elements.

Casting and Character Portrayal

The hosts commend the casting choices, particularly praising Travis Fimmel’s portrayal of Desmond Hart for his nuanced performance that keeps audiences guessing his true allegiance and motives:

"Travis is doing it in a weird vibe, but it's generally, you're checking in the good category. Like, I could trust this guy." ([32:02])

This careful casting enriches the series’ complex character dynamics and moral ambiguities.

Notable Quotes

Ahmed Ali Akbar: "Your mind and body must be within your control. Only then can you discern the truth." ([00:05])
Allison Schapker: "The voice is such an iconic power and the fact that it was used within the sisterhood, sister to sister in this kind of foundational crime, that is, I think has to be debated." ([21:06])
Jordan Goldberg: "Whether Valya's a tragic hero or an anti-hero, I think we'll figure it out as we go along in our story." ([22:32])
Emily Watson: "There is a very strong familial bond and what drives a lot of what they do is that sense of vengeance for their family." ([41:40])

Conclusion

The first episode of Dune: Prophecy sets a compelling foundation, teeming with political intrigue, complex character motivations, and themes that resonate with contemporary issues of truth and power. Through engaging discussions with the show’s creative minds and cast, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the series' rich tapestry. With shocking plot twists and morally ambiguous characters, "The Hidden Hand" promises an enthralling journey into the heart of the Imperium.

Listeners who haven't yet watched the episode are encouraged to do so to fully appreciate the intricate dynamics and layered storytelling that Dune: Prophecy offers. The podcast adeptly navigates the fine line between honoring the legacy of Frank Herbert's universe and carving out its unique narrative path, making it an indispensable companion for fans and newcomers alike.

Stay Tuned: Join Ahmed and Greta next week as they continue dissecting Dune: Prophecy, delving into Episode 2 with more exclusive insights and discussions.