‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’: Plot, Cast, Release Date, and Everything We Know So Far
‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ is a new TV series coming to Disney+, part of the Star Wars universe. The idea was first talked about in 2019, after Leslye Headland, a big Star Wars fan, showed interest.
In April 2020, it was confirmed that Headland would be in charge of the show, focusing on female characters. Now, with a new trailer out and several interviews, Headland has shared some details about what viewers can look forward to. If you want a quick overview, we’ve got you covered right here.
‘The Acolyte’ is set in the High Republic Era, shining a spotlight on the darker side of the story
‘The Acolyte’ marks the first live-action TV series centered on the High Republic Era, and the second overall. It’s officially set during the later years of the High Republic Era, occurring a century before the events of ‘Episode I: The Phantom Menace.’ This era, often dubbed the Golden Age of the Jedi, saw the Jedi Order at the pinnacle of its influence.
The series will follow a Jedi Master embarking on an investigation into a string of crimes, leading to confrontations with a former Padawan and uncovering sinister plots lurking beneath the surface.
Although it may seem like a typical storyline, Headland delved into the show’s intricacies, emphasizing that ‘Acolyte’ will defy expectations. She pointed out that the Jedi of this era wielded immense power, which could arguably cast them as “villains” in some contexts.
Headland clarified that it’s not the first time Jedi have outnumbered Sith, but this dynamic sets up a premise akin to rooting for the underdog. As someone drawn to morally complex characters and their quest for humanity, she hinted at a narrative that challenges our perception of the Jedi order, likely exploring their flaws on screen.
The trailer unveiled plenty of action, drawing inspiration from Samurai and Wuxia films and described as a blend of “Kill Bill” and “Frozen.” There’s anticipation about how the final product will shape up. Dafne Keen hinted at some remarkable fight scenes in the series, potentially surpassing the iconic Darth Maul duel.
The show will pay homage to the High Republic books, with one character, Vernestra Rwoh, directly lifted from the literary works. In the books, Vernestra Rwoh, a young Mirialan Jedi Master, achieved Knighthood at just fifteen, a feat unmatched for some time, under the guidance of Jedi Master Stellan Gios.
The most recent trailer reveals a chilling truth: Jedi across the galaxy are being pursued and slain by unknown wielders of the dark side. Amidst this turmoil, Mae faces a pivotal decision between embracing the path of the Force or yielding to her personal desires. Notably, the trailer suggests a narrative where the Jedi are portrayed in a negative light.
The majority of the show’s cast has been revealed
Because of the distinctive setting of the show, don’t anticipate familiar names or faces from other projects reprising their roles, as it will feature an entirely new cast.
- Amandla Stenberg as Mae, a former padawan turned warrior;
- Lee Jung-Jae as Sol, a respected Jedi master;
- Manny Jacinto as Qimir, a former smuggler;
- Dafne Keen as Jecki Lon, a young Jedi;
- Jodie Turner-Smith as Mother Aniseya, leader of a coven of witches;
- Rebecca Henderson as Vernestra Rwoh, a Jedi Knight prodigy;
- Charlie Barnett as Yord Fandar, another Jedi;
- Carrie-Anne Moss as Indara, a Jedi Master;
- Joonas Suotamo as Kelnacca, a Wookiee Jedi master Amy Tsang.
Dean-Charles Chapman and Margarita Levieva are also involved in the project.
‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ is set to premiere this summer
‘The Acolyte’ is scheduled to premiere on Disney+ on June 4, 2024, with its first two episodes. Subsequently, the remaining six episodes will be released weekly.