The Acolyte lights up Disney Plus — Can it bring peace to the galaxy?

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Star Wars fans around the world are in for a treat. The much-anticipated and completely new saga, The Acolyte landed on Disney+ on 4 June, taking us back to the golden age of the Jedi Order during the High Republic era.

Played by Amandla Stenberg, we meet Osha, a former Padawan who reunites with her Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) to tackle a thrilling mystery.

Described as a “mystery-thriller,” the series delves into “a galaxy of shadowy secrets and emerging dark-side powers,” according to Lucasfilm and it looks to be a move in the right direction and away from the Skywalker saga some of us have become wary of.

Early reviews praise the show’s stunning visuals and fresh perspective on the Star Wars universe. The Guardian’s Graeme Virtue suggests: “The Acolyte benefits from being a fresh start for the creators and the audience alike, with no homework required.”

But some reviewers have noted a strange mix up in the initial episodes, but remain optimistic about the overall story arc. Kelly Lawler from USA Today thinks it “Full of logical fallacies, hokey dialogue and nonsensical plots”… harsh words but you’ll have to watch it for yourself.

Dive into the Galaxy far far away for less

If you’re not already a subscriber, Disney+ offers a variety of plans to suit your needs. In the UK, a standard monthly subscription currently costs £7.99 but you get a few channels included in that. Namely — Disney, Star Wars, Marvel, 20th Century Fox and more.

Many mobile networks offer deals that include Disney+ subscriptions with new phone contracts, and Samsung famously gave away 12-month subscriptions with smartphone purchases.

• It’s always best to check with your preferred provider for the latest offers, but O2 is currently offering three-months (or six) subscription with new sign ups to the network.
• If you subscribe to a £60 Uber One membership, you can get an £80 Disney+ 12-month standard plan for free.
• Or if you bank with Lloyds, then you may be able to get a 12-month Disney+ contract for free with a Club Lloyds account.

Grab your lightsaber, popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to a new era of the Force with “The Acolyte.” New episodes arrive every Tuesday, with the finale scheduled for 16 July.