The Screen Scribe

It only took 4 episodes of build-up but Dune: Prophecy has finally hit its stride, at least in this episode. “In Blood, Truth” is the first genuinely fun, entertaining and engaging episode of the series, and while the flashback episode “Sisterhood Above All” has been its best so far, it wasn’t without the dull trappings that have plagued the series as a whole.

For much of its run Dune: Prophecy has flirted with concepts that Frank Herbert examined in his landmark science fiction masterpiece, such as power corrupts, the fallibility of charismatic leaders and the gullibility of the populace to follow said leaders. But while Frank Herbert thoroughly explored and dissected these themes, Dune: Prophecy only scratches the surface of them, never fully committing or following through effectively on the promised premise.

But this latest episode doubles down on something different that the series has also struggled with and effectively executes in episode 5. A little bit of wry humour, some entertaining action, and a shift in character dynamics that finally injects some life into its storylines. The previous four episodes all suffered from multiple issues such as dull, plodding plotlines, weak dialogue, poor acting and just a severe lack of entertainment. Episode 5 on the other hand is by far the most fun episode of the series. I actually found myself engaged and interested as the episode progressed through the gears and the story finally began to progress towards something resembling an endgame. But where was this earlier in the series? If the audience has to endure four episodes of mediocre storytelling, character development and weak visuals before they finally get some form of entertainment in its penultimate episode, then there are serious issues to be addressed within the show itself.

And considering this is an HBO show, I find the lack of quality baffling.

The Imperial storyline found a new lease on life with the introduction of Mother Francesca and the ripple effect her presence causes among the residents of the palace. The earlier efforts of the series to emulate the political intrigue of Game of Thrones fell flat but actually find some footing here with Francesca. She is the catalyst for several characters that drive their arcs forward to something resembling satisfying character development. The Sisterhood storyline, while always the most interesting of the series, continues apace with what will most definitely be the origin of the iconic Litany against Fear mantra, as Mother Raquella manifests in her great-great-grand daughter and guides an emotionally conflicted Tula towards the origin of Desmond’s mysterious power, while simultaneously revealing the truth of his parentage. This reveal however feels somewhat hollow and disappointing. I was expecting more from this mystery, and given the ages of the actors involved, the implied relationship strains credulity for me.

In a series full of holes, missteps and frustrating creative choices, episode 5 “In Blood, Truth” leans into the strengths of its actors, both senior and junior, much to the benefit of the show and delivers an engaging, sometimes interesting, but mostly fun episode of television.

But it leaves us with the question, is it too little too late?

3 / 5 from the Screen Scribe.