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The acolyte finale: A deep dive into the dark side’s triumph
The first season of Disney+’s “The Acolyte” has left fans on the edge of their seats, with a finale that marks a significant victory for the Sith. The series, starring Manny Jacinto as the enigmatic Sith Lord known as the Stranger (or Qimir), and Amandla Stenberg as Osha, has captivated audiences with its intricate plot and complex characters. As the season concludes, viewers are left pondering the future of these characters and the broader implications for the “Star Wars” universe.
A journey to the dark side
The finale of “The Acolyte” is a masterclass in storytelling, blending action, emotion, and unexpected twists. Osha, who began the series with strong ties to the Jedi, finds herself drawn to the dark side, culminating in a shocking moment where she uses the Force to choke her former Jedi master, Sol (played by Lee Jung-jae), to death. This act of rage is a pivotal moment for Osha, solidifying her descent into darkness.
Throughout the season, Osha’s internal struggle between light and dark has been a central theme. Her relationship with the Stranger, marked by a palpable will-they-won’t-they tension, has been a significant factor in her journey. Manny Jacinto’s portrayal of the Stranger is both seductive and menacing, adding layers to the character’s influence over Osha.
A kiss that wasn’t meant to be
In a recent interview with Vulture, Jacinto revealed that a version of the finale included a kiss between Osha and the Stranger. However, the creative team ultimately decided that the moment felt unearned. “The Stranger killed a bunch of her friends, and she just killed her father-like figure [Sol],” Jacinto explained. “For them to have this sensual moment just didn’t feel like it was appropriate.”
Instead, the final emotional beat of the season features the Stranger placing his hand on Osha’s while she holds a lightsaber. This subtle gesture conveys a deep connection between the two characters, hinting at a potential future alliance. As Jacinto suggested, “Maybe not the kiss, but how about a hand-hold? Some sort of wanting to console, some sort of physicality that expresses that he cares for her and feels for her and that they’re in this together now.”
The kiss that divided a fandom
The decision to omit the kiss in “The Acolyte” finale is reminiscent of the controversial kiss between Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) in “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” The kiss, which occurred just before Kylo’s death, sparked intense debate among fans. Some viewed it as a fulfillment of the “Reylo” romance, while others felt it was out of place.
Daisy Ridley addressed the kiss on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, describing it as a “goodbye” rather than a romantic gesture. “You can call a kiss a thousand things, but I felt it was a goodbye,” Ridley said. Director J.J. Abrams also downplayed the romantic aspect, suggesting that the bond between Rey and Kylo was more spiritual than sexual.
The future of “The Acolyte”
As the first season of “The Acolyte” concludes, fans are eagerly awaiting news of a second season. The finale leaves many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the future of Osha and the Stranger. Will their alliance strengthen, or will new challenges arise to test their bond?
The series has successfully expanded the “Star Wars” universe, offering a fresh perspective on the eternal struggle between light and dark. With its compelling characters and intricate plot, “The Acolyte” has the potential to become a cornerstone of the franchise.
For those who haven’t yet experienced the thrilling journey of “The Acolyte,” the entire first season is available to stream on Disney+. To get a taste of the series, check out the trailer and information sheet here.
Reflecting on the journey
“The Acolyte” has proven to be a thought-provoking addition to the “Star Wars” saga, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and the complexities of the human (and alien) spirit. As we reflect on the first season, it’s clear that the series has left a lasting impact on its audience. The characters’ journeys, particularly Osha’s descent into the dark side, offer rich material for discussion and analysis.
As we await news of a potential second season, one can’t help but wonder what lies ahead for Osha and the Stranger. Will their bond deepen, or will the dark side’s allure prove too powerful to resist? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: “The Acolyte” has set the stage for an epic continuation of the “Star Wars” story.
