Even though we’re more than a year away from the release of the film, there might not be a more anticipated 2020 release than Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune.” The sci-fi epic features an incredible cast and is directed by one of the best filmmakers working today. What’s not to be excited about? Apparently fans are the only ones bullish on the project, as HBO Max recently signed Villeneuve and his ‘Dune’ co-writer Jon Spaihts to develop a TV series spinning off from the upcoming film. But it appears that the development of the ‘Dune’ spin-off might be at a crossroads.
According to THR, HBO Max has decided to part ways with Spaihts, who was not only going to write the pilot episode of “Dune: The Sisterhood,” but also serve as the show’s executive producer and showrunner. The report claims that the network wasn’t particularly happy with the script that was turned in and has decided to move in a different direction, with a new unnamed showrunner. Spaihts will now focus on the script for the unannounced (but expected) “Dune” film sequel.
“Dune: The Sisterhood” is said to be a female-focused series set in the larger universe of the film. The series will follow the group of women known as the Bene Gesserit, who possess almost supernatural powers and are one of the most respected groups in the entire societal ecosystem.
No word on whether or not Spaihts’ departure means that Villeneuve will not helm the pilot episode, which he was signed to do. He’s currently working on post-production for the film, which stars Timothee Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Dave Bautista, Stellan Skarsgard, Charlotte Rampling, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Jason Momoa, Zendaya, and Oscar Isaac.
No word on when ‘The Sisterhood’ is expected to debut, but the film already has a release date of December 18, 2020.