In Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" films, the Atreides and Harkonnens find themselves at war over the titular desert planet of Arrakis as part of a larger plot orchestrated by the influential Bene Gesserit.

The shadowy and ancient sect of women with extraordinary powers exert their influence over the emperor and other leaders in "Dune's" imperium. But thousands of years before Paul Atreides becomes the messiah – the Lisan al Gaib – to the planet's native Fremen on his rise to claim the throne, the fabled Bene Gesserit were simply an order of women with lofty ambitions.

How that sisterhood rose to power – and how two of the most powerful houses in the "Dune" universe, the Atreides and Harkonnens, became bitter adversaries – is the subject of an upcoming prequel series, "Dune: Prophecy." Set 10,000 years before the events of the "Dune" films starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, the series will soon debut on HBO.

Here's everything to know about the series, including a trailer, its cast and when and how to watch it.

'Dune: Prophecy':Cast, producers reveal how the HBO series expands on the films

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What time does 'Dune: Prophecy' premiere?

"Dune: Prophecy" will have its one-hour premiere at 9 p.m. EST on Sunday, Nov. 17.

According to an episode description, the series premiere will chronical the beginnings of a scheme hatched by a mysterious sisterhood that one day becomes the Bene Gesserit to put one of their own on the imperial throne.

How to watch 'Dune: Prophecy'

"Dune: Prophecy" will air on HBO's TV channel and will available to stream on Max, HBO's streaming service.

Max subscription plans begin at $9.99 a month with ads, which allows users to stream on up to two devices at one time. Ad-free subscriptions are $16.99 a month, which includes the additional ability to download up to 30 titles to watch on the go. The highest tier, which is $20.99 a month, includes the ability to stream on four devices and offers 4K Ultra HD video quality and 100 downloads.

HBO also offers bundles with Hulu and Disney+.

'Dune: Prophecy' trailer

'Dune: Prophecy' cast

Harkonnens, pre-Bene Gesserit sisters and even an Atreides will be portrayed by a large ensemble cast across its eight-episode debut season.

Here's a look:

• Emily Watson as Valya Harkonnen
• Olivia Williams as Tula Harkonnen
• Travis Fimmel as Desmond Hart
• Jodhi May as Empress Natalya
• Mark Strong as Emperor Javicco Corrino
• Sarah-Sofie Boussnina as Princess Ynez
• Josh Heuston as Constantine Corrino
• Jade Anouka as Sister Theodosia
• Aoife Hinds as Sister Emeline
• Chris Mason as Keiran Atreides
• Shalom Brune-Franklin as Mikaela
• Tabu as Sister Francesca
• Camilla Beeput as Reverend Mother Dorotea
• Sarah Lam as Hagal Truthsayer
• Chloe Lea as Lila
• Faoileann Cunningham as Sister Jen
• Flora Montgomery as Truthsayer Vera
• Tessa Bonham Jones as Lady Shannon Richese

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Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]