Star Wars: The Acolyte Season 1 Review : Reinvented with intrigue and dynamic dualism

THIS IS A SPOILER-FREE REVIEW

Story: Set 100 years before “The Phantom Menace”, this Star Wars series explores a galaxy filled with secrets and dark forces

Review: The latest addition to the Star Wars universe, 'The Acolyte', created by Leslye Headland, promises a fresh perspective on the franchise by reversing the traditional roles of Jedi and Sith. It aims to showcase a time when Jedi are the establishment rather than the underdogs. This intriguing premise sets the stage for a narrative that blends political intrigue with personal vendettas, with a deep exploration of the complexities of power and morality.

At the heart of the series is Osha, played by Amandla Stenberg, a former Padawan turned mechanic pulled back into the Jedi fold when her twin sister Mae, also played by Stenberg, resurfaces as a Jedi killer. This dual role highlights Stenberg’s range, as she portrays both the conflicted Osha and the dark, elusive Mae. Their dynamic is central to the series, compellingly exploring familial bonds strained by opposing paths. Lee Jung-jae's Master Sol provides a nuanced counterpoint to Osha, with his performance adding emotional depth and complexity to their shared history.

The series stands out for its willingness to challenge the established Star Wars formula. While it retains familiar elements such as lightsaber battles and alien species, 'The Acolyte' shifts the narrative focus beyond the clear-cut battle between good and evil. Instead, it delves into murky grey areas, questioning the benevolence of the Jedi and the legitimacy of their power. Unlike many other entries that rely heavily on nostalgia and familiar faces, this series forges its own path with original characters and untrodden planets. The absence of pop-up cameos and Easter eggs, at least in the first four episodes shared for screenings, allows the narrative to stand independently, offering a fresh entry point for new viewers while satisfying long-time fans with its authentic Star Wars feel.

The narrative structure of the series unfolds like a conspiracy thriller, with each episode peeling back layers of mystery. Although it may feel a bit too slow for a Star Wars series, reflecting the atypical approach adopted by ‘Andor’, rather than ‘The Mandalorian’, it keeps the audience engaged. Every answer leads to more questions, creating a sense of perpetual suspense. This is complemented by the series' visual style, which, while reminiscent of classic Star Wars aesthetics, incorporates various aesthetic elements with competent fight choreography to give the action scenes a unique flair.

'The Acolyte' is a bold addition to the franchise, embracing a willingness to explore new themes and challenge traditional narratives that set it apart. With its strong performances, particularly by Stenberg and Jung-jae, and its intricate plot, the series promises to be a significant chapter in the ever-expanding Star Wars saga.