Star Wars enthusiasts looking for a refreshing twist on the iconic franchise can rejoice—Disney+’s new series The Acolyte delivers just that. Masterminded by Leslye Headland, known for her work on Russian Doll, this series steps away from the well-trodden path of the Skywalker saga, offering fans a standalone adventure that dates back 100 years before the events of The Phantom Menace.
Journey to the High Republic Era
Set during the era of the High Republic, The Acolyte explores a time when the Jedi were at their peak, yet dark forces and heinous crimes still lurked in the shadows. The narrative focuses on former Jedi Padawan played by Amandla Stenberg, who, after a shocking murder, finds herself under suspicion. Supported by her old master, portrayed by Lee Jung-jae of Squid Game fame, she embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the truth.
A Riveting Twin Dynamic
The series introduces an intriguing character dynamic as Stenberg’s portrayal includes twins Mae and Osha. This adds layers to the plot, especially during intense scenes where the estranged sisters meet for the first time since childhood. In one dramatic moment, Mae attempts reconciliation but faces rejection from Osha, leading to a forceful encounter where Mae knocks Osha out with a Force-blast and swaps places with her.
Intriguing Influences and Comparisons
The Acolyte feels like a fusion of genres, blending elements reminiscent of True Detective with supernatural twists found in Stephen King’s The Outsider. This unique combination creates a gripping murder mystery within a richly developed Star Wars universe.
Episodic Release Schedule
The Acolyte‘s episodes release every Tuesday at 9:00 PM EST on Disney+, aligning with release strategies for other major franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With eight episodes planned, viewers can expect six more weeks filled with Jedi intrigue.
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