Tabu's Next International Project: "Dune: Prophecy"
What can be another feather to the acting marvel Tabu, the highly anticipated Max prequel series “Dune: Prophecy” has signed the iconic Indian actress for a recurring role, Variety reported in an exclusive. This will be the fourth outing of the national award-winning actress for an international project, the previous ones being “The Namesake” (2006), “Life of Pi” (2012) and the British miniseries A Suitable Boy. The earlier projects have already helped the actress who is known for her versatility garner praise from audiences and critics alike, affirming her transcendent talent on a global stage.
Originally conceptualized in 2019 under the working title “Dune: The Sisterhood,” the series draws inspiration from the novel “Sisterhood of Dune” penned by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. Positioned within the vast expanse of the “Dune” universe crafted by revered author Frank Herbert, and unfolding 10,000 years prior to the emergence of Paul Atreides, “Dune: Prophecy” intricately weaves the narrative around two Harkonnen sisters as they confront existential threats to humanity”s destiny, forging the path for the legendary sect destined to be known as the Bene Gesserit.
Vareity reports that Tabu will play the role of Sister Francesca. The character is described as according to Vareity, “Strong, intelligent, and alluring, Sister Francesca leaves a lasting impression in her wake. Once a great love of the Emperor, her return to the palace strains the balance of power in the capital.”
“Dune: Prophecy” promises a riveting exploration of the origins of the formidable Bene Gesserit, an enigmatic sisterhood honing superhuman abilities through rigorous physical and mental conditioning. Positioned approximately a millennium before the events chronicled in Herbert”s seminal novel “Dune” (1965), and serving as a narrative precursor to Denis Villeneuve”s acclaimed adaptation released in 2021, the series is crafted by Legendary Television, with Alison Schapker at the helm as showrunner, writer, and executive producer.
With filming already concluded in Budapest and Jordan by December 2023, the series is poised to captivate audiences when it premieres on Max later in 2024.
Tabu, born Tabassum Fatima Hashmi on November 4, 1971, in Hyderabad, India, has carved a niche for herself as one of the most versatile and accomplished actresses in Indian cinema with many accolades coming her way. Her journey in the film industry spans over three decades, marked by an illustrious repertoire of performances that showcase her remarkable range and depth as an artist. The depth of the actress is visible in many movies she has done in different genres and languages, and helping them to have both commercial and critical success.
Graduating from the esteemed St. Xavier”s College, Mumbai, Tabu embarked on her acting career in the 1980s, making her debut in the critically acclaimed film “Bazaar” (1982). However, it was her breakout role in “Vijaypath” (1994) that catapulted her to stardom, earning her widespread recognition and acclaim.
She has collaborated with visionary directors such as Gulzar, Vishal Bhardwaj, Mani Ratnam, Madhur Bharndarkar, Ang Lee, Kamal Haasan and Mira Nair, delivering performances that resonate with audiences globally.
Her cinematic journey is adorned with accolades, including multiple National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards, cementing her status as a luminary in Indian cinema. Noteworthy performances in films like “Maachis” (1996), “Chandni Bar” (2001), and “Haider” (2014) underscore her ability to inhabit diverse characters with authenticity and conviction.
