But the group known for their ability to use the “voice” to control others didn’t build that influence overnight. In fact, it took thousands of years for the Bene Gesserit to grow into one of the most formidable factions in the ‘Dune’ universe first created by Frank Herbert in his novel series.

Before orchestrating the birth of Paul Atreides, who was intended to be a super-powerful being known as their Kwisatz Haderach, the Bene Gesserit were simply a sisterhood – albeit one with lofty ambitions.

“Dune: Prophecy,” a series debuting this weekend on HBO and Max, will serve as a prequel series to Villeneuve’s two films, exploring how that sisterhood evolved into the mega-influential Bene Gesserit. Set 10,000 years before the events of the Dune films starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, the series also chronicles how the Atreides and Harkonnens became bitter rivals.