Star Wars: The Acolyte Episode 4 reaffirms that its creators, like director Alex Garcia Lopez, are committed to weaving a complex mystery filled with twists and surprises. This commitment was clear from the season’s opening moments, where the highly anticipated character Jedi Master Indara, portrayed by Carrie Anne Moss, meets a sudden and shocking demise before the episode’s title sequence even appears. If you haven’t figured it out by now, check your expectations before you hit play on this series.
In The Acolyte Episode 4, “Days,” cold open, viewers see Kelnacca (Joonas Suotamo), a Wookiee Jedi Master likely bound by the Barrash Vow, residing in his secluded sanctuary introduced at the season’s two-episode premiere. His home, reminiscent of Master Yoda’s in Dagobah, is adorned with symbols seen in the witches’ coven on Brendok. While the series has jumped back to the present day, viewers are still invited to contemplate the discussions from the lead-up to this week. There are clearly still threads to unravel in the mysteries of Mae and Osha’s troubled past.
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Meanwhile, on Coruscant, Jedi Master Sol (Lee Jung-Jae) persuades Osha (Amandla Stenberg) to join his mission to Khofar. This is where they suspect Mae—Osha’s formidable twin—will make her next move. The situation has expanded past just a murder of Jedi. The possibility of the Sith’s return has the Jedi on high alert. However, Jedi Master Rwoh’s unwillingness to involve the Jedi High Council further adds to the notion that these Jedi are much more in line with those in Skywalker than those in the height of the High Republic.
There has been considerable discussion about Ki-Adi-Mundi (Silas Carson)’s appearance in the latest episode of The Acolyte Episode 4. Many had hoped the series would avoid relying on familiar cameos, offering a fresh perspective. Yet, the concern over canon continuity persists. It’s worth noting that Star Wars has a history of retcons, even under George Lucas’s guidance, which can influence how characters are portrayed. So this is really nothing new.
Ki-Adi-Mundi’s brief appearances in the Prequel Trilogy already provide a clear depiction of his character as a Jedi: strict adherent to the Jedi Code, perhaps to a fault. Trained by Master Yoda and close to Master Windu, he embodies the hubris that eventually led to the Jedi Order’s downfall, much like his counterparts. In The Acolyte, set during the Jedi Order’s peak and subsequent decline, the portrayal of Jedi like Master Sol and others suggests a shift towards less rigid interpretations of the Jedi Code. However, figures like Ki-Adi-Mundi represent an earlier era of unwavering adherence to tradition, reflecting the Order’s eventual downfall due to their own arrogance.
Creator Leslye Headland has indicated that The Acolyte explores how the Jedi Order, once at its zenith, fell prey to manipulation. Ki-Adi-Mundi’s presence in the series likely serves a significant narrative purpose, symbolizing the blind spots and gradual decline within the Jedi ranks. Until the series concludes, it’s prudent to reserve judgment on Ki-Adi-Mundi’s role, as his inclusion is likely integral to unraveling truths about the Jedi’s fall from grace.
In secret, Master Sol leads the mission with the other familiar faces, including fan favorites Jedi Yord (Charlie Barnett) and Jecki (Dafne Keen). Making his much-anticipated introduction is Bazil, a charming Tynnan Tracker resembling a capybara. Coupled with Osha’s adorable droid Pip, The Acolyte Episode 4 adds yet another cute critter that will likely adorn your shelf soon. With so much intensity, Bazil’s presence brings a delightful touch of Star Wars whimsy as they embark on their perilous mission to protect Master Kelnacca.
Mae’s relentless pursuit of Jedi Master Kelnacca on Khofar, accompanied by Qimir (Manny Jacinto), leads to more questions than answers. Qimir’s motives remain elusive, raising questions about his allegiance, adding to The Acolyte Episode 4‘s air of suspense and uncertainty. Qimir is much more determined than we have ever seen him before, almost desperate for Mae to complete her mission. Further, his departure just as the mysterious Sith appears continues the community’s speculation that he may be Darth Teeth after all.
One of the show’s strengths lies in its freedom from the constraints of the main Skywalker saga. This allows Lesyle Headland and her team to take creative risks. Each episode has the potential to deliver unexpected character developments or narrative twists. With the anticipated showdown between Sith and Jedi finally looming, there’s undeniable excitement about where this Star Wars murder mystery will lead next.
If there’s one criticism to level at The Acolyte Episode 4, it’s a recurring issue seen in many Disney+ shows: inconsistent runtime. A notably shorter episode following a longer one sets a worrying precedent. With how fast the plot moves, this leaves viewers uncertain about how much story will unfold before the next cliffhanger, particularly concerning the mystery behind the master who sent Mae on her quest.
However, despite these occasional pacing issues, the cliffhanger at the end of The Acolyte Episode 4 maintains the suspense built over weeks. While many may have trouble reconciling yet another death in the murder mystery, the season has shown that this won’t be like the last time we see characters lost to the potential Sith resurgence and Mae’s revenge.
Many questions about that night on Brendok are still swirling, which will surely lead to even more discussions this week. Regardless of your opinion of the series, it is hard to argue that the fandom isn’t engaged and guessing. For better or worse, The Acolyte Episode 4 shows the series has true staying power to bring back so many fans of different opinions every week.
As the series surges past its midpoint, Star Wars: The Acolyte Episode 4 hints the narrative will continue to subvert expectations as it nears its climax. From the shocking demise of Jedi Masters to the mysterious maneuvers of characters like Qimir, the episode continues to blend Star Wars lore with compelling twists. While some may find the twists overwhelming, for me, the intrigue has never been higher, promising a thrilling culmination to this captivating Star Wars murder mystery.
Star Wars: The Acolyte Episode 4
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Rating - 8/108/10
TL;DR
As the series surges past its midpoint, Star Wars: The Acolyte Episode 4 hints the narrative will continue to subvert expectations as it nears its climax.
