On the emperor's order, Duke Leto Atreides moves from his home planet, Caladan, with his family to lead the planet Arrakis, also known as Dune. After an attack on their stronghold, his son, Paul, and his wife, Lady Jessica, flee into the desert.

The Lady Jessica and her son, Paul Atreides, manage to contact the native Dune population, known as Fremen.

Paul Atreides, who has become known as Paul Muad'Dib, leads a rebellion against the Harkonnen, who have the secret support of the emperor.