As the latest installment in the long-running Star Wars franchise, the Disney+ show The Acolyte centers on events that occurred a century before The Phantom Menace. While critics have given it a kind reception, the Star Wars fanbase has been heavily divided. Nevertheless, with this unexplored period in the popular sci-fi cinematic universe, The Acolyte introduces new characters to the growing lore. Along with these new characters, great talent is hired to portray them.
Given its popularity and ongoing legacy, Star Wars has had a knack for assembling well-established actors while also giving smaller names a chance to shine. Amandla Stenberg’s dual performance as Mae and Osha and Lee Jung-jae’s portrayal of Master Sol are just a few standout elements of The Acolyte. Viewers who want to learn more about the cast have a decent selection of movies and TV shows to choose from.
10 Joonas Suotamo Portrayed Another Wookie in Solo: A Star Wars Story
- IMDB Rating: 6.9
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 69%
- Watch on Disney+
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The Acolyte introduced Star Wars fans to Kelnacca, the franchise’s first Wookie Jedi. While his screen time was rather limited, Kelnacca was an intriguing addition to the history of the Jedi. Kelnacca was brought to life by actor Joonas Suotamo, but this wasn’t the first Wookie character he has played. The iconic Chewbacca was brought to life by Peter Mayhew in the original Star Wars trilogy and The Force Awakens. Originally a double for Mayhew, Suotamo soon took over as the new actor for Chewbacca.
While The Last Jedi was the start of Suotamo replacing Mayhew, he got a better chance to shine in Solo: A Star Wars Story. Chronicling the origins of Han Solo and how he met his sidekick Chewbacca, both Suotamo and Alden Ehrenreich brought great comradery as the younger versions of the heroes. Despite Solo‘s underperformance at the box office and some saying it was an unnecessary installment, other fans had fun with the film and believe it deserves a second look.
Solo: A Star Wars Story
Board the Millennium Falcon and journey to a galaxy far, far away in an epic action-adventure that will set the course of one of the Star Wars saga’s most unlikely heroes.
- Director
- Ron Howard
- Release Date
- May 25, 2018
- Studio
- Lucasfilm Ltd.
- Writers
- Jonathan Kasdan , Lawrence Kasdan , George Lucas
- Runtime
- 135 minutes
- Main Genre
- Sci-Fi
9 Ordinary Joe Was a Clever Show Featuring Charlie Barnett
- IMDB Rating: 6.7
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 50%
- Rent on Prime Video
Charlie Barnett plays Jedi Knight Yord Fandar in The Acolyte, a disciplined character who abides by the rules and responsibilities given to him. However, with what the series has showcased so far, being by the book can sometimes hinder Yord. Barnett is an actor who isn’t as well-known compared to other cast members. Nevertheless, those who want to learn more about him outside Star Wars should watch some of his other TV projects, like Ordinary Joe.
Ordinary Joe has a creative premise and revolves around making life choices at a significant moment and seeing how those decisions create parallel stories. For protagonist Joe Kimbreau, a decision at his college graduation leads to three different timelines. Whether as a nurse, a rock star, or a police officer, Joe deals with relationships and other life challenges. In addition to Joe, there are different versions of his friends, such as Charlie Barnett’s Eric Payne. With Eric, Barnett displays his impressive skills at playing the same character across multiple stories. As ingenious as the concept was, Ordinary Joe only lasted one season.
8 Rebecca Henderson Provided Supporting Work in Russian Doll
- IMDB Rating: 7.7
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%
- Watch on Netflix
The Star Wars franchise has transformed many actors with the use of make-up and prosthetics. Rebecca Henderson is another performer who has joined those ranks as she plays the green-skinned Jedi Master Vernestra Rwoh. Before making her mark in The Acolyte, Henderson appeared in the acclaimed Netflix series Russian Doll. Coincidentally, Leslye Headland was involved in the creation of both shows.
Russian Doll is an expertly crafted TV show that uses the time loop concept to hilarious effect. In Russian Doll, protagonist Nadia travels to a party in New York City, only to find herself repeating the same day over and over. Equal parts funny and dramatic, Russian Doll always keeps viewers excited with each new story twist. Henderson plays Lizzie, a quirky and uniquely dressed friend of Nadia’s. Henderson isn’t the only Russian Doll alum who appears in The Acolyte, as Charlie Barnett also starred in the show.
Russian Doll
A cynical young woman in New York City keeps dying and returning to the party that’s being thrown in her honor on that same evening. She tries to find a way out of this strange time loop.
- Release Date
- February 1, 2019
- Cast
- Natasha Lyonne , Charlie Barnett , Greta Lee , Elizabeth Ashley
- Main Genre
- Mystery
- Seasons
- 2
- Creator
- Leslye Headland, Natasha Lyonne, Amy Poehler
7 Dean-Charles Chapman Stunned Viewers With His Performance in 1917
- IMDB Rating: 8.2
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
- Watch on Netflix
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Dean-Charles Chapman first gained fame with his performance as Tommen Baratheon in Game of Thrones, a good-natured ruler who contrasted significantly to his cruel brother Joffrey. Like other Game of Thrones alumni such as Emilia Clarke, Chapman got a chance to appear in the Star Wars universe. In The Acolyte, he plays Torbin, a Jedi who took the Barash Vow, or a form of silent meditation.
While Chapman has been in more than one big franchise, his best performance was in the World War I movie 1917. In the film, Chapman and George McKay play two British soldiers named Blake and Schofield, who race against time to deliver a message that could save thousands of lives. Filmed as if it was shot in one take, 1917 immerses the audience with its beautifully shot war sequences. Along with the marvelous technical elements, Chapman and McKay give dedicated performances as two men sent on a dangerous mission that could get them killed.
6 Jodie Turner-Smith Got More Famous After Queen & Slim
- IMDB Rating: 7.1
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%
- Watch on Tubi
Although The Acolyte episode titled “Destiny” has been viewed as controversial by some Star Wars fans due to its lore additions, there is no denying how interesting the character Mother Aniseya is. The leader of a witch coven, Mother Aniseya uses the methods of the force to create her two daughters and keeps her people away from the Jedi Order. She is brought to life by actress Jodie Turner-Smith, whose other credits include projects like After Yang, The Last Ship, and, most notably, Queen & Slim.
In Queen & Slim, Jodie Turner-Smith and Daniel Kaluuya play the titular duo. The characters’ simple first date takes a dark turn when a police officer pulls them over, and Slim shoots him in self-defense. Left with no choice, the two strangers go on the run and become outlaws who become an inspiration to many. A diverse and modernized take on the Bonnie & Clyde story, Queen & Slim incorporates themes of grief, trauma, and racism into its gripping plot. The film is also aided by the brilliant chemistry between Kaluuya and Turner-Smith as the main characters.
Queen & Slim
A couple’s first date takes an unexpected turn when a police officer pulls them over.
5 Manny Jacinto Stole Many Scenes in The Good Place
- IMDB Rating: 8.2
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%
- Watch on Netflix
Considering how incredibly comedic Manny Jacinto is, he made for a fun addition to The Acolyte, considering it’s a more dramatic series with serious stakes. In the show, Jacinto plays Qimir, a smuggler who helps with Mae’s quest to get revenge on the Jedi. With his quips and laid-back attitude, Qimir is decent comedic relief when paired with the villainous Mae. Those who have seen Jacinto’s work in The Good Place know how hysterical the actor can be. Yet, The Acolyte is also giving him a chance to flex his sinister and serious muscle as he is revealed to be the Sith Master.
In The Good Place, Jacinto plays Jason Mendoza, who is initially introduced in the first few episodes as a monk who has taken a vow of silence. However, he eventually reveals himself to be a goofy slacker from Florida who is obsessed with dancing and the Jacksonville Jaguars football team. With his chaotically funny personality, Jason steals many scenes with his clueless behavior, hilarious dialogue, and well-timed line delivery. The Good Place was a breakout project for Jacinto and helped give him the chance to appear in the Star Wars franchise.
The Good Place
Four people and their otherworldly frienemy struggle in the afterlife to define what it means to be good.
- Release Date
- September 19, 2016
- Cast
- Kristen Bell , William Jackson Harper , Jameela Jamil , D’Arcy Carden , Manny Jacinto , Ted Danson
- Main Genre
- Comedy
- Seasons
- 4
- Creator
- Michael Schur
- Production Company
- Fremulon, 3 Arts Entertainment, Universal Television
- Number of Episodes
- 50
4 Amandla Stenberg Left an Emotional Impact on The Hunger Games
- IMDB Rating: 7.2
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 84%
- Watch on AMC+
Amandla Stenberg is the main star of The Acolyte, and she made an amazing first impression when the first episode revealed that she was playing twin sisters. Dual performances can be difficult, but Stenberg finds a balance between portraying the innocent Osha and her evil sibling, Mae. Some have preferred the latter character to be better since it expanded Stenberg’s acting range and allowed her to present her villainous side.
Stenberg was already a well-established actress long before joining Star Wars. Another huge franchise she has been in is The Hunger Games. Stenberg plays Rue, a female tribute from District 11 who bonds with protagonist Katniss Everdeen during the 74th tournament. Rue may have perished in the first film, but her mark on the franchise remains relevant since she influences Katniss to become a resistance fighter against the Capitol. Rue was Stenberg’s breakout role, acting as the start of many notable performances to come.
The Hunger Games
Katniss Everdeen voluntarily takes her younger sister’s place in the Hunger Games: a televised competition in which two teenagers from each of the twelve Districts of Panem are chosen at random to fight to the death.
- Director
- Gary Ross
- Release Date
- March 21, 2012
- Cast
- Jennifer Lawrence , Josh Hutcherson , Liam Hemsworth , Stanley Tucci , Wes Bentley , Willow Shields , Elizabeth Banks , Sandra Ellis Lafferty
- Writers
- Gary Ross , Suzanne Collins , Billy Ray
- Runtime
- 2 hours 22 minutes
- Main Genre
- Adventure
- Production Company
- Lions Gate Films, Color Force
3 Logan Was a Breakout Superhero Movie For Dafne Keen
- IMDB Rating: 8.1
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%
- Watch on Disney+
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Dafne Keen is a young and talented actress who has been on people’s radar since her breakout performance in the X-Men film Logan. Now, she has the privilege of saying she starred in a Marvel film and a Star Wars installment like many before her. In The Acolyte, Keen plays Jecki Lon, the Padawan apprentice of Master Sol. Keen transforms into Jecki thanks to the incredible make-up work and portrays her as a calm and skilled learner.
While Jecki is more of a supporting character waiting for her big moment in The Acolyte, Keen has proved she can steal the show when needed, like in Logan. Keen plays Laura/X-23, a mutant revealed to be Logan/Wolverine’s daughter. With the aging Logan no longer the invulnerable hero he once was, he decides to risk his life to ensure Laura makes it to a haven for mutants like her. Logan acted as Hugh Jackman’s initial swan song for his tenure as Wolverine, yet Keen holds her own alongside the famed actor and turns Laura into a standout character, which is not an easy feat.
Logan
In a future where mutants are nearly extinct, an elderly and weary Logan leads a quiet life. But when Laura, a mutant child pursued by scientists, comes to him for help, he must get her to safety.
- Release Date
- February 17, 2017
- Cast
- Hugh Jackman , Patrick Stewart , Boyd Holbrook , Richard E. Grant , Dafne Keen , Stephen Merchant
- Runtime
- 2 hours 17 minutes
- Production Company
- Twentieth Century Fox, Marvel Entertainment, TSG Entertainment, Kinberg Genre, Hutch Parker Entertainment, Donners’ Company
2 Carrie-Anne Moss Played One of The Most Iconic Movie Heroines in The Matrix
- IMDB Rating: 8.7
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%
- Watch on Netflix
When Carrie-Anne Moss was announced as a cast member in The Acolyte, fans of the actress were ecstatic to see what she would bring to Star Wars. However, everyone was left shocked when her character, Jedi Master Indara, didn’t last long in the first episode. It was a bait-and-switch moment that let fans know that any character could be expendable. Still, it was sad to see Moss have a too-brief appearance in the series because she starred in another famous science fiction franchise.
Debuting in 1999, The Matrix wowed audiences with its story of a post-apocalyptic future where humanity is imprisoned in a computer world and a chosen one is prophesied to free everyone. Carrie-Anne Moss plays one of the heroes, Trinity, who gets a satisfying and action-packed introduction. As both protagonist Neo’s love interest and a skillfully strong fighter, Trinity is a fan-favorite character in the original film and its following sequels, no matter the quality of each installment. Moss brought her A-game as Trinity, who has been cemented as one of the best movie heroines ever.
The Matrix
The Matrix franchise features a cyberpunk story of the technological fall of humanity, in which the creation of artificial intelligence led the way to a race of powerful and self-aware machines that imprisoned humans in a virtual reality system—the Matrix—to be farmed as a power source.
- Created by
- The Wachowskis
- Latest Film
- The Matrix Resurrections
1 Squid Game Earned Lee Jung-jae More Worldwide Recognition
- IMDB Rating: 8
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 95%
- Watch on Netflix
Before The Acolyte, Lee Jung-jae was better known for projects in South Korea, most specifically Squid Game. The Acolyte was Jung-jae’s first venture into American television, and he even learned English so that he could star in the show. Jung-jae plays Sol, a wise and highly respected Jedi Master who has easily become one of the best characters in the series. Sol is a complex and interesting member of the Jedi that fans can’t wait to learn more about.
Before taking on the role of Sol, Lee Jung-jae became recognizable among American audiences with Squid Game. The South Korean Netflix show took over the world in 2021, and people are still anticipating its long-awaited second season. The series is an anxiety-inducing thrill ride about 456 contestants who enter a dangerous competition of children’s games to win a huge jackpot. Jung-jae plays the protagonist Seong Gi-hun, a family man forced to make extremely tough decisions to stay alive like everyone else, and audiences can’t help but feel bad for him. With Squid Game and The Acolyte, Lee Jung-jae has become a better-known actor internationally.
Squid Game
Hundreds of cash-strapped players accept a strange invitation to compete in children’s games. Inside, a tempting prize awaits with deadly high stakes: a survival game that has a whopping 45.6 billion-won prize at stake.
- Release Date
- September 17, 2021
- Cast
- Jung-Jae Lee , Park Hae-soo , Oh Yeong-su , Wi Ha-joon
- Main Genre
- K-Drama
- Seasons
- 2
- Creator
- Hwang Dong-hyuk
