Season 1, Episode 4, titled “Twice Born,” directed by Richard J. Lewis and written by Kevin Lau & Suzanne Wrubel, delves into the shadowy political struggles within the Landsraad, the governing body where the Great Houses debate laws, trade, and administration. This arena serves as the stage for the Bene Gesserit’s whispered manipulations, the Imperial House’s assertions of power, and the calculated moves of the Great Houses against their enemies—whether alone or with allies.

The central theme of the episode is power. All factions are engaged in this game: the Bene Gesserit under Valya Harkonnen, the rebellion led by Keiran Atreides, and the Imperial House commanded by Emperor Javicco Corrino. Ultimately, Desmond Hart’s machinations secure the Imperial House’s dominance. Hart thwarts a major rebel mission and prevents the Bene Gesserit from regaining favor with the Emperor, wielding a mysterious and dangerous power. However, even this power pales in comparison to the eventual emergence of the God Emperor of Mankind, born 10,200 years later to Paul Atreides and Chani.

The Sisterhood Investigates

The episode opens with Sister Emeline (Aoife Hinds) experiencing a harrowing vision of the God Emperor of Mankind—a tyrant the Bene Gesserit seek to avert through their careful manipulation of bloodlines and leaders. Ironically, their very efforts lead to his rise: Paul Atreides becoming the Lisan al-Gaib, House Atreides igniting the Holy War, and the eventual ascension of Paul and Chani’s son, Leto II Atreides, to godhood.

Emeline’s vision nearly drives her to suicide, but Sister Jen (Faoileann Cunningham) intervenes. Meanwhile, Sister Tula Harkonnen (Olivia Williams) and Sister Avila (Barbara Marten) lead an investigation into these apocalyptic visions. They task sisters like Emeline with illustrating their dreams, but the haunting images of Arrakis, Shai-Hulud, and the God Emperor leave Tula deeply unsettled.

Valya vs. Evgeny

On Salusa Secundus, Valya Harkonnen (Emily Watson) and Sister Theodosia (Jade Anouka) visit the Harkonnen residence in the capital. There, they meet Valya’s ailing uncle, Evgeny Harkonnen (Mark Addy), and her ambitious nephew, Harrow Harkonnen (Edward Davis). Valya offers to become Harrow’s truthsayer, using her position as Mother Superior of the Bene Gesserit to elevate House Harkonnen’s status.

Despite Evgeny’s warnings, Harrow accepts, tired of his house’s humiliation in the Landsraad. Valya promises to secure Harrow a seat on the High Council, solidifying her influence. To ensure Harrow’s ascent, Valya allows Evgeny to succumb to his failing health.

House Harkonnen makes their Move

At a Landsraad assembly, the Great Houses convene with their Bene Gesserit truthsayers. Meanwhile, Keiran Atreides (Chris Mason) and the rebellion launch a daring attack, sending a thinking machine drone disguised as a bomb to the meeting. Valya, forewarned by Sister Mikaela (Shalom Brune-Franklin), allows the attack to proceed, intending to let the Sisterhood intervene and win back Emperor Javicco Corrino’s (Mark Strong) favor.

Simultaneously, Valya mobilizes truthsayers to rally support for Harrow Harkonnen’s appointment to the High Council. Two Great House leaders approach Harrow, viewing him as a potential figurehead to challenge the Emperor’s authority. With Valya’s guidance, Harrow aims to transform from a puppet into a bold leader, ready to confront the Emperor.

Desmond Hart Threatens the Landsraad

The Bene Gesserit and the rebellion’s plans are abruptly foiled by Desmond Hart (Travis Fimmel), the Emperor’s ruthless executioner. Hart exposes rebels and nobles illegally using thinking machines, including the drone intended for the Landsraad attack. He reveals that he executed Pruwet Richese for owning a thinking machine and uses the rebels’ device to justify his brutal methods.

In a chilling demonstration, Hart telepathically immolates the prisoners, warning that all who defy the Butlerian Commandments will face the same fate. His decisive actions crush Keiran Atreides’ mission, subdue the Bene Gesserit’s ambitions, and instill fear across the Landsraad. By the episode’s end, Desmond Hart emerges as the unchallenged victor in the game of power. Unchallenged is an understatement as Valya still opposes the executioner. 

Rating: 9/10