The Acolyte (2024)

The Acolyte, released in 2024 on Disney+, is a bold and fresh entry into the Star Wars universe. Set during the High Republic era—about 100 years before The Phantom Menace—it is a must-see for any Star Wars fan. Leslye Headland's series boldly fuses mystery, thriller, and martial arts-infused action with unflinching explorations of the Force's darker side. It offers viewers a new perspective on the conflict between the Jedi and the growing threat of the Sith, making it undoubtedly one of the most intriguing prequels in Star Wars history.

The story follows Osha (Amandla Stenberg), a former Jedi-in-training, who finds herself at the center of a murder mystery that reveals the shadowy rise of Sith power. She joins forces with her former Jedi Master, Sol (Lee Jung-jae), to investigate a series of dark and sinister crimes. Together with Sol's current Padawan, Jecki (Dafne Keen), and Jedi Knight Yord (Charlie Barnett), they swiftly uncover a growing threat with far-reaching consequences for the galaxy.

The Acolyte stands out because it dives into the darker, more mysterious aspects of Star Wars lore. Previous entries focused on large-scale battles and the fight between Jedi and Sith. The Acolyte delves into the machinations of Sith infiltration and how they managed to rise without the Jedi noticing.

The show boldly explores the moral gray areas of the Star Wars universe and boldly challenges the traditional binary of good versus evil, particularly through Osha's journey and her complicated relationship with her past and the Force. Furthermore, it challenges the Jedi Order's rigid methods, portraying the Jedi as flawed and even cruel, particularly in how they train their Padawans.

The Sith are a looming presence throughout the series, and The Acolyte boldly explores their gradual rise to power. The series' focus on the early days of Sith plotting adds a dark, suspenseful edge, making it feel more like a mystery-thriller than the typical action-adventure associated with Star Wars. As the Sith infiltrate the Galactic Republic, the tension mounts. How did they manage to do so undetected? They were laying the groundwork for Palpatine's eventual rise.

The Acolyte is unlike any other Star Wars series thanks to its vibrant, colorful design that contrasts with the darker themes. The production design is unquestionably more intricate and ancient, reflecting the aesthetic of the High Republic era—an age of exploration and prosperity for the Jedi. The show has rightfully been compared to Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, with its martial arts-inspired combat sequences and contemplative pacing, which bring a new flavor to Star Wars.

Amandla Stenberg delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Osha, whose internal conflict propels the narrative forward. Her portrayal of the character's complex relationship with her sister Mae (also played by Stenberg) adds unquestionable emotional depth to the narrative.

Lee Jung-jae is outstanding as Sol, a Jedi Master wrestling with his own guilt and the moral intricacies of the situation. His performance is reminiscent of Liam Neeson's Qui-Gon Jinn, exuding a serene yet world-weary demeanor befitting a Jedi Master.

Manny Jacinto as Qimir, a smuggler with a mysterious connection to the Sith, brings a charming and rogueish dynamic to the cast, balancing the heavier tones with his charisma.

The show has rightfully received praise for its unique tone, rich visual world, and thematic depth. The Acolyte confidently taps into Star Wars mythology to explore the darker sides of the Force, offering new insights into the Jedi Order's flaws. Some have criticized the series for its slow-burn approach, especially in the first few episodes. However, once it gains momentum, it becomes a complex and satisfying exploration of the pre-Skywalker era.

The Acolyte is a bold, new direction for Star Wars. The series focuses on the darker, more ambiguous aspects of the Force, offering a rich and textured narrative that delves into the moral complexities of both Jedi and Sith. With its stunning visuals, unique tone, and strong performances, The Acolyte has set itself apart as one of the most intriguing entries in the Star Wars universe. It provides fans with a thought-provoking look at the roots of the conflict between the light and dark sides of the Force.