"The Acolyte," an eight-episode mystery-thriller TV series scheduled to arrive on the Disney+ platform on June 4th, 2024, will go down in history as either an honored addition to Star Wars mythology or merely a well-intentioned failure. The show is characterized as a thriller that focuses on female Star Wars characters and delves into the morally ambiguous aspects of the Star Wars galaxy.
Table of Contents
- 1. What is "The Acolyte" about?
- 2. What's the Cast of "The Acolyte"?
- 3. What Is the Episodic Point of "The Acolyte"?
- 4. How does "Acolyte" relate to the Sith?
- 5. How does "Acolyte" relate to the Sith?
1. What is "The Acolyte" about?
"The Acolyte" is set toward the end of the High Republic era, approximately 100 years before the events of "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace." The series follows a former Jedi Padawan who has left the Jedi Order and is drawn into the dangerous world of the dark side. As the character delves deeper into this world, they discover a plot that threatens to destroy the peace and stability of the galaxy.
Actress Dafne Keen stated that the series is “kind of an explanation of how the Sith infiltrated the Jedi. It’s a Sith-led story, which has never been done before.”
Compared to the storm and stress of the Clone Wars, historical records have little to say about the era of the High Republic. It was, in general, a time of peace, with the Jedi secure in their role as protectors of the universe and proponents of the light side of the Force, while the Sith were all but powerless. The focus of "The Acolyte" is exactly how this ideal state of affairs came to an end.
2. What's the Cast of "The Acolyte"?
Leslye Headland, the co-creator of Netflix’s hit series "Russian Doll," is set to direct and write "The Acolyte."
As of the writing of this article, the leaked cast includes Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Jodie Turner-Smith, Dafne Keen, Rebecca Henderson, Charlie Barnett, Carrie-Anne Moss, Dean-Charles Chapman, and Joonas Suotamo.
"The Acolyte" Cast List
| Actor | Known For | Role in "The Acolyte" | Scenes/Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amandla Stenberg | "Hunger Games" | Mae, Series lead, former disillusioned Padawan | Deals with morality, reunites with Jedi Master, investigates mysterious goings-on |
| Lee Jung-jae | "Squid Game" | Master Sol, Jedi Master. He met Mae at a very early age. | Seen in Jedi robe, teaches Padawans about the Force |
| Manny Jacinto | "The Good Place" |
Qimir, a former smuggler who now makes his living as a trader, procuring unusual things and enjoying a life of leisure. |
Not a Jedi, not wielding a lightsaber. Regular guy swept up into the High Republic world |
| Jodie Turner-Smith | "Murder Mystery 2" |
Mother Aniseya, the leader of a coven of Witches who value their independence and the preservation of their beliefs and powers. |
Not Jedi or Sith, no scenes with Amandla Stenberg. "Powerful" Force-wielding individual, leadership role |
| Dafne Keen | "Logan" | Jecki Lon, a Theelin/human hybrid, a Jedi apprentice to Master Sol. | Described as "David Bowie meets Star Wars" |
| Rebecca Henderson | "Westworld," "Russian Doll" |
Vernestra "Vern" Rwoh, an elder Jedi Master. Imri Cantaros' apprentice. |
Character introduced in "Star Wars: The High Republic" novels, transitioned from print to live-action |
| Charlie Barnett | - | Yord Fandar, a Jedi Knight and guardian from the Jedi Temple. | An overachiever and a rule follower. His need to be a by-the-book Jedi can cloud his mind. |
| Carrie-Anne Moss | "The Matrix" series | Master Indara, a Jedi Master of great physical and mental skill. | Seen in a fight scene with Amandla Stenberg in a bar-like setting |
| Dean-Charles Chapman | "Game of Thrones" | Master Torbin | Making debut in the Star Wars universe |
| Joonas Suotamo | Played Chewbacca in previous Star Wars films | Wookie Jedi Kelnacca, a loner who lives a solitary life. | Native of Finland, portrayed Chewbacca, known for his height (6'11") |
There are a few other important cast members who should be mentioned. Abigail Thorn is set to become the first trans actress in the Star Wars universe, and she will be playing a character named Ensign Eurus. Other notable names in the announced cast include Margarita Levieva, Amy Tsang, and James Henri-Thomas, whose exact roles are not publicly known at the present time.
3. What Is the Episodic Point of "The Acolyte"?
"The Acolyte" will take a unique approach by exploring the franchise from the perspective of the villains. Set in the High Republic era, the series aims to showcase the underdogs as the villains in this particular timeline are vastly outnumbered. Unlike other Star Wars stories, "The Acolyte" will focus on a period of peace throughout the galaxy, without any overarching conflicts or wars. However, battles will still occur in a more intimate setting, featuring choreography with elements of martial arts.
The creator, Leslye Headland, sought to challenge the status quo and address fan criticisms by questioning established plot elements. She described the series as a blend of "Frozen meets Kill Bill." Lucasfilm was intrigued by the exploration of the High Republic era, as it offers an opportunity to delve into the political, personal, and spiritual aspects of this time period. Additionally, the series aims to shed light on how Emperor Palpatine managed to infiltrate the Galactic Senate without the Jedi detecting his presence. The High Republic era is portrayed as a time of enlightenment, with the Jedi Order not yet embodying the selfless and brave figures depicted in the films. Instead, they wear pristine gold and white uniforms and engage in few skirmishes.
4. How does "Acolyte" relate to the Sith?
The term "Acolyte" is closely related to the Sith and their hierarchical structure. Ever since Darth Bane established the Sith's Law of Two, which dictates that there can only be two Sith at a time—a Master and an Apprentice—the Sith have followed a strict system for passing on their knowledge to future generations. The purpose of this rule is to allow the Sith to operate covertly, accumulating power without attracting the attention of the Jedi. While the Law of Two permits only two official Sith, the rank of Acolyte allows for additional Dark Side followers to exist.
Sith Acolytes are individuals who aspire to join the Sith but are not considered full members. They are often Force-sensitive individuals who seek to align themselves with the Dark Side. One of the intended consequences of the Rule of Two is to foster competition between the Sith Lords and their apprentices, encouraging the apprentices to overthrow their Masters through treachery. This mindset of jealousy and rivalry extends to the apprentices themselves, who frequently attempt to kill their Masters and take their place. Within the Sith, no one is safe, and those lower in the hierarchy are always willing to resort to murder to gain more power.
The hierarchical structure of the Sith and the concept of Acolytes may provide insights into Mae's role and motivations in the upcoming Star Wars project, possibly "Star Wars: The Acolyte." As an apprentice, Mae would likely compete for the opportunity to become a Sith apprentice herself. This pursuit of power could lead her down a path of conflict and drive her actions against the Jedi. However, it is worth noting that becoming powerful in the dark side of the Force is a perilous and lengthy journey, and the initial stage of being a Padawan places one at a disadvantage in battle.
Conclusion
With its exploration of how the Sith infiltrated the Jedi and the mysteries surrounding Emperor Palpatine's rise to power, "The Acolyte" will provide fans with a deeper understanding of the Star Wars universe. It presents an opportunity to witness the Jedi Order in a different light, as they navigate a world where conflicts are not prevalent, yet battles still occur behind the scenes.
As we eagerly await the arrival of "The Acolyte" on Disney+, it's safe to say that this series will leave a lasting impact on Star Wars mythology. Whether it becomes a celebrated addition or faces challenges along the way, it is sure to spark conversations and captivate audiences with its thrilling storyline and fresh perspective, "The Acolyte" has the potential to become a standout entry in the Star Wars universe.
FAQS
1. When does The Acolyte Premiere?
According to a pilot poster released on the official Star Wars website, "The Acolyte" is set to make its premiere on Disney+ on June 4, 2024. Fans can mark their calendars for this highly anticipated debut of the new Star Wars series.
2. Will there be Sith in The Acolyte?
Yes, "The Acolyte" delves into a captivating Sith-driven narrative, exploring the infiltration of the Jedi Order by the Sith and unraveling the enigmatic ascent of Emperor Palpatine. Prepare to be immersed in a story that challenges our perceptions and sheds light on the clandestine machinations behind the Jedi-Sith conflict.
3. What does the Acolyte mean?
In the Star Wars universe, the term "Acolyte" is commonly used to describe individuals who serve as loyal followers or devoted disciples of powerful figures, often Sith Lords or practitioners of the dark side. These Acolytes play a crucial role in supporting and carrying out the agendas of their influential leaders within the complex and ever-evolving dynamics of the galaxy.
4. How powerful is a Sith Acolyte?
Imperial Sith Acolytes demonstrated considerable proficiency in harnessing the Force, employing a range of techniques that rendered them highly resistant to Force-based assaults. Their formidable abilities encompassed the likes of Force push, Force lightning, and Force repulse, enabling them to exert significant control over the mystical energies that permeate the Star Wars universe.
5. What color is the Acolyte lightsaber?
Set in the High Republic era, "The Acolyte" explores the insidious infiltration of the Sith within the Jedi Order. The term "Acolyte" within the Star Wars setting refers to those who follow the teachings of the Sith, which is reflected in the distinctive red color of the lightsabers wielded by these devoted individuals.
6. Does Mae use a red lightsaber?
Mae, as a Sith Acolyte, may doesn't have a red lightsaber. While red lightsabers are commonly associated with Sith warriors, Mae's lightsaber color can differ. However, her unwavering pursuit of power and commitment to the dark side make her a formidable force, much like Asajj Ventress.
References
1.The Acolyte(TV series), Wikipedia, 3/19, 2024.
