One of the advantages of the science fiction genre is that it allows writers and directors to create dynamic and complex narratives that reflect aspects of our world. Indeed, the power struggle central to Frank Herbert's Dune (a longstanding feud between House Atreides and the Harkonnens) recalls similar feuds between real-world figures and factions. That this conflict is partly motivated by access to a vital logistical resource, spice, only emphasizes these parallels.