The new Star Wars series, The Acolyte, premiered on Disney+ with impressive viewership numbers. According to reports, the show had 4.8 million views in its first day of streaming, making it the biggest series premiere on Disney+ this year.
Created by Lesley Headland (Russian Doll), The Acolyte is a mystery-thriller set in the final days of the High Republic era. The story follows a former Padawan and her Jedi Master as they investigate crimes, with a cast that includes Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Jodie Turner-Smith, Dafne Keen, Rebecca Henderson, Charlie Barnett and Carrie-Anne Moss.
The series has been praised for its unique take on Star Wars elements and stunning action scenes. Critics have noted that while some characters are thinly drawn, The Acolyte offers a new direction for the franchise with a willingness to challenge assumptions and put its own spin on hallowed lore.
Comparisons have been made to The Phantom Menace in terms of aesthetic and focus on Jedi, but The Acolyte also incorporates elements of Hong Kong action cinema and mystery. Some critics have called it the best Star Wars streaming television event since The Mandalorian, with vibrant visuals and exciting action scenes.
Standout performances include Amandla Stenberg playing dual roles and Lee Jung-jae providing vulnerability in his character. The fight scenes have been praised for their unique blend of martial arts and Force abilities, reminiscent of Ang Lee's Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Zhang Yimou's Hero.
Despite some criticisms regarding the intensity or violence of the action, The Acolyte has been praised for its potential to lay the groundwork for future Star Wars storytelling in various formats.
