Disney’s ‘The Acolyte’ burst onto screens in 2024, diving into the Star Wars High Republic era with a fresh story of Jedi, Sith, and twin sisters caught in a cosmic struggle. It promised a bold shift from familiar tales, blending mystery, action, and new Force lore, but its reception was a mixed bag, sparking heated debates among fans.

As I revisit the series in 2025, some elements feel clunky or dated, while others still captivate with their daring choices. Below, I break down five ways ‘The Acolyte’ (2024) hasn’t held up and five ways it remains a standout in the Star Wars universe.

Ways ‘The Acolyte’ Aged Poorly

5. Uneven Pacing Drags the Story

The show’s pacing feels off on rewatch. Early episodes rush through key events, like Mae’s initial attacks, leaving little room for emotional weight, while later ones slow to a crawl with drawn-out Jedi Council scenes. This imbalance makes the narrative feel disjointed, especially compared to tighter Star Wars series like ‘Andor’ (2022-2025).

I found myself wanting more focus on the twins’ backstory to ground the stakes. Instead, the show juggles too many threads, and the uneven tempo undercuts the tension, making some episodes feel like a slog.

4. Retconning Force Lore Feels Forced

‘The Acolyte’ takes big swings with Force mythology, introducing concepts like the vergence and the witches of Brendok. These additions aim to expand Star Wars lore but often clash with established rules, leaving fans confused about how they fit with the broader saga. The witches’ powers, for instance, feel vague and disconnected from the Force we know.

This bold move doesn’t always land, as the show struggles to explain its new ideas clearly. On rewatch, these lore shifts feel more disruptive than innovative, pulling me out of the story.

3. Underdeveloped Supporting Characters

Characters like Yord Fandar and Jecki Lon, despite strong performances from Charlie Barnett and Dafne Keen, get shortchanged. Yord’s by-the-book Jedi Knight persona and Jecki’s role as Sol’s Padawan have potential, but their arcs are cut short or left shallow. We barely learn what drives them beyond their loyalty to the Jedi.

This lack of depth makes their fates less impactful. I wanted more moments to connect with them, but the show prioritizes plot twists over character growth, leaving a gap on rewatch.

2. Predictable Twists Undermine Suspense

The show leans heavily on mystery, but many twists, like the Stranger’s true identity as Qimir, are easy to spot early on. Manny Jacinto’s performance is magnetic, but the reveal lacks surprise due to obvious foreshadowing. Other plot turns, like Mae and Osha’s switch, feel telegraphed rather than earned.

These moments weaken the suspense that should drive the series. Looking back, I wish the writing had trusted the audience more, letting the mystery unfold with subtler clues.

1. Inconsistent Character Motivations

Mae and Osha, played by Amandla Stenberg, are the heart of the show, but their motivations wobble. Mae’s shift from vengeful warrior to conflicted sister feels abrupt, while Osha’s journey to the dark side lacks clear buildup. Their yin-yang dynamic is compelling in theory but muddled in execution, with choices that don’t always track.

This inconsistency makes it hard to stay invested in their arcs. I found myself questioning why they made certain decisions, which dulled the emotional payoff.

Ways ‘The Acolyte’ Aged Masterfully

5. Stunning Action Sequences

The lightsaber duels and ‘Force-fu’ fights remain a high point. Carrie-Anne Moss as Indara sets the tone with her Matrix-inspired combat in the opening scene, and the choreography only gets better. The Stranger’s battles, especially in episode five, are brutal and beautifully staged, showcasing Jedi and Sith at their peak.

These sequences still feel fresh and thrilling, proving ‘The Acolyte’ can deliver Star Wars action that rivals the best of the franchise. I’m still in awe of their intensity.

4. Amandla Stenberg’s Dual Performance

Amandla Stenberg shines as both Mae and Osha, bringing distinct energy to each twin. She captures Mae’s raw emotion and Osha’s guarded fragility, making their complex bond believable. Her ability to switch between the two roles, especially in scenes where they impersonate each other, is a standout.

Stenberg’s work holds up as a highlight, carrying the emotional core of the series. I find myself drawn to her scenes most on rewatch.

3. Bold Exploration of Jedi Flaws

‘The Acolyte’ dares to show the Jedi as flawed, even fallible, through Master Sol’s questionable decisions and the Order’s rigid dogma. Lee Jung-jae’s nuanced performance as Sol, inspired by Qui-Gon Jinn, grounds this critique, showing a Jedi torn between duty and personal ties. This fresh angle challenges the saga’s usual good-versus-evil narrative.

This perspective feels more relevant than ever, adding depth to the Star Wars mythos. It’s a bold choice that still resonates strongly.

2. High Republic Era World-Building

Set 100 years before ‘The Phantom Menace’ (1999), the show brings the High Republic era to life with vibrant planets, unique Force users, and a distinct aesthetic. From the witches’ fortress on Brendok to the bustling streets of Ueda, the world feels alive and untouched by the Skywalker saga, offering a fresh canvas.

This rich setting still captivates, making me want to explore more of this era. The visuals and atmosphere remain a triumph.

1. Cultural Impact and Fan Passion

Despite its flaws, ‘The Acolyte’ sparked a massive online movement with the #RenewTheAcolyte campaign after its cancellation in August 2024. Fans rallied around its fresh take on Star Wars, praising its diversity and bold storytelling. The show’s influence, from cosplay to heated debates, shows its lasting mark on the franchise.

This passion keeps the series alive in conversations, proving its ability to connect with audiences. I still see its impact in fan art and discussions today.

What’s your take on ‘The Acolyte’—which moments still dazzle you, or what fell flat? Drop your thoughts in the comments!