Episode five of The Acolyte has just landed, and it’s clear that Leslye Headland’s venture into the Star Wars universe is a bold departure from the norm, flaws and all.
While the series’ writing and dialogue may not be hitting top marks, “Night” showcased some of the most stunning lightsaber duels we’ve seen in recent memory. Moving forward, it seems The Acolyte will continue to lean into the kind of adventurous, almost playful spirit that defined George Lucas’ original vision for Star Wars. It’s a deliberate choice, and if executed with sincerity and skill, there’s a lot of potential in that direction.
One particular eyebrow-raising moment in the latest episode was Qimir’s unconventional combat tactics—specifically, his audacious decision to headbutt a Jedi’s lightsabers, exploiting the unique properties of cortosis in his helmet.
So, what exactly is cortosis? During the High Republic era and beyond, this rare metal was mined on planets like Dinzo and Mokivj. In its raw form, cortosis was brittle, but when properly refined, it became a game-changer capable of deflecting both blaster bolts and lightsaber strikes. Its significance extended even into the Clone Wars era, where it was utilized in the armor worn by Separatist forces against the Galactic Republic. Interestingly, Anakin Skywalker intervened by sabotaging cortosis production on Mokivj, an act that inadvertently led to severe consequences for the planet.
For Star Wars enthusiasts eager to dive into The Acolyte’s deep lore and dynamic storytelling, the series is currently streaming on Disney Plus. New episodes drop every Tuesday, building anticipation toward the season finale on July 16th. Whether it’s the exploration of ancient Force secrets or the thrill of lightsaber battles, The Acolyte promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats with its unique blend of mystery and nostalgia from a galaxy far, far away.
