Headland, a lifelong Star Wars fan, drew inspiration from her deep love of the franchise’s high-stakes storytelling and the question of what happens when someone close turns to the dark side. The series delves into the light and dark sides of the Force, exploring the concept of duality and the gray areas of morality. In addition to the Jedi, The Acolyte introduces a new group of Force-sensitive Witches, led by Mother Aniseya, played by Jodie Turner-Smith. Mother Aniseya is a powerful figure on the planet Brendok, revered for her extraordinary abilities.

Director Kogonada, known for his insightful video essays, weaves an emotionally charged narrative. The coven’s unique understanding of the Force as a “Thread” that connects all living beings is explored with depth and intrigue. Their beliefs, rituals, and practices offer a fresh perspective on the Force, contrasting sharply with the Jedi’s more rigid and structured approach.

The episode’s focus shifts to the twin sisters, Osha and Mae, whose paths diverge amidst the brewing conflict between the witches and the Jedi. The complex dynamic between the sisters, their contrasting personalities, and their conflicting loyalties form the emotional core of the episode. Their journey is filled with moments of heartwarming connection, fierce rivalry, and heartbreaking choices, making for a compelling character-driven narrative.

As the tension between the witches and the Jedi escalates, the episode takes a dark turn, leading to a tragic confrontation that leaves a lasting impact on the characters and the events that follow.

Jodie Turner-Smith’s standout performance

The episode’s highlight is Jodie Turner-Smith’s standout performance, which adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Turner-Smith expresses her excitement about being part of this groundbreaking project and contributing to the ever-expanding Star Wars universe.

“She has abilities that are beyond anything that any of them have ever seen,” says Turner-Smith. “And for that reason, they follow her.” “I really grasp the largeness of being involved in something like this,” adds Turner-Smith. “It sounded like something that was so interesting creatively—something that I know we had not yet seen in the Star Wars universe.”

“Destiny” showcases the series’ potential to deliver a thought-provoking Star Wars story.

“Destiny” is not just a flashback episode but a crucial piece of the larger puzzle that is The Acolyte. It delves deeper into the complex relationship between the Force wielders, blurring the lines between the light and dark sides. It reveals the flaws and prejudices within the Jedi Order, challenging the traditional perception of their righteousness. The episode’s exploration of gray areas and moral ambiguities adds depth and nuance to the Star Wars universe, making it all the more captivating.

While the episode delves into the backstory of the twins and reveals their upbringing in a coven of witches and the Jedi’s involvement in their lives, it raises questions about the Jedi’s motives and actions. Some viewers may find the episode’s execution and storytelling disjointed, with theatrical elements detracting from the overall experience. The portrayal of the Jedi and the incomplete picture of Mae’s perspective may also be divisive. Despite these criticisms, the episode sets the stage for further revelations and promises a deeper exploration of the characters and events in future episodes.

Overall, “Destiny” showcases the series’ potential to deliver a fresh and thought-provoking Star Wars story.