Dune: Prophecy Lands Indian Legend Tabu as Bene Gesserit Sister Francesca as Denis Villeneuve Faces Whitewash Controversy
For a movie that features the culture and background of a particular region or ethnic group, it’s often disappointing to see little or no representation of that group in reality. Whether it’s in lead roles or people involved behind the scenes, it’s crucial to get their experiences heard to make an apt portrayal of the project.
Yes, we are talking about Dune, the massive franchise that spans TV shows and more movies, from the creative genius Denis Villeneuve. The fictional world in the movie is based on Arabs and Arabic turmoils but fails to feature people of color in primary roles.
Seeking Diversity: Tabu Cast in Dune: Prophecy
Adapted from the eponymous books, the two movies released in the Dune universe have received widespread success. The unique world it creates and eventually transports us to is too beautiful to leave. However, given that the story is inspired by the Amazigh people of Algeria and Morocco, it was a shock for the viewers to not find any people of color in major roles across the franchise. This controversy led to a lot of arguments and debates that tried to calm the sentiments on both ends of the spectrum.
Now, it feels as if Denis Villeneuve has taken a step towards diversifying the cast of the Max series Dune: Prophecy which is set centuries before Paul Atreides takes the throne. Variety has reported that Indian actress Tabu has been cast as Sister Francesca in the series and will have a recurring role. Based on Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, the Max series will give fans some background on how the world seen in the two movies came about.
Tabu is a well-known actress with many national and international projects to her name. She was also seen in Life of Pi, The Namesake, and other internationally acclaimed projects. Tabu has received the National Film Award in India a total of two times. Her addition to Dune: Prophecy promises a more accurate portrayal of the Bene Gesserit that will convince fans that the project is inching towards a more authentic representation.
What is Dune: Prophecy About?
The prequel series Dune: Prophecy dives into the past of Arrakis and the Bene Gesserit right till their formation which propels the story to newer levels. Dune: Prophecy is a story about two Harkonnen sisters who face dreadful challenges which can unravel the future of humankind, and establish the fabled sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit.
The series was initially greenlit in 2019 and has since undergone many changes including an altered title. We are yet to receive the premiere date for the show. Given the massive production value of Villeneuve’s projects, it could be some time before we get to see the prequel series come to life.
