Warner Bros. Discovery recently made a strategic move by transitioning some of its top-tier Max Originals – Harry Potter, Lanterns, and IT prequel Welcome To Derry – to be classified as HBO Originals. This shift has been extended with the relocation of The Penguin and Dune: Prophecy to HBO, where both shows will premiere and also be available on the Max streaming service.
The decision to rebrand these high-profile titles as HBO Originals aims to provide them with exposure through linear airing on the premium cable network in addition to their availability for streaming. Initially, there was uncertainty regarding whether The Penguin and Dune: Prophecy would fall under this new branding, but it has now been clarified.
The Penguin features Colin Farrell in the lead role, reprising his character as the Gotham City gangster from Matt Reeves’ The Batman. The series, developed by Lauren LeFranc, includes a talented ensemble cast with names like Cristin Milioti, Rhenzy Feliz, Theo Rossi, and Shohreh Aghdashloo, among others. The production involves 6th & Idaho Productions, Dylan Clark Productions, Warner Bros. Television, and DC Studios, with key executives like Matt Reeves and Colin Farrell onboard.
Farrell described The Penguin as a show with dark, heavy, and incredibly violent themes, reflecting the gritty nature of the storyline. On the other hand, Dune: Prophecy, derived from the vast Dune universe created by Frank Herbert, is set to debut later this year. Inspired by the novel Sisterhood Of Dune, the series delves into the narrative of two Harkonnen sisters combating forces that pose a threat to humanity’s future, ultimately establishing the Bene Gesserit sect.
Dune: Prophecy underwent significant changes in casting, writing, and direction as it navigated challenges posed by the pandemic and other disruptions. The series boasts a star-studded lineup including Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Travis Fimmel, and Mark Strong, among many others, bringing the intricate storyline to life.
Alison Schapker leads the show as the showrunner and executive producer, with a team of esteemed individuals contributing to the production. The series promises to offer a fresh perspective on the Dune universe, captivating audiences with its rich storytelling and compelling characters.
In conclusion, the transition of these renowned titles to HBO Originals signifies a strategic move by Warner Bros. Discovery to enhance the visibility and reach of these beloved franchises, offering viewers a blend of premium content on both linear television and streaming platforms.