‘The Acolyte’ Links Osha to Darth Vader, Kylo Ren, and Other Notable Force Users in a Unique Manner

Disney’s latest Star Wars venture, ‘The Acolyte,’ debuted on Disney+ on June 4, 2024. Despite facing controversies and review bombing, the series remains one of the most discussed shows currently airing. This isn’t entirely surprising given the immense hype and controversy it generated.

Showrunner Leslye Headland has been a focal point of controversy due to her remarks and responses online. Despite the criticism directed towards Headland and her decisions, ‘The Acolyte’ continues to generate significant buzz. It appears to be expanding its own narrative universe by skillfully leveraging existing lore.

Recent episodes have shifted their focus to Osha, now isolated with Qimir. The series appears to draw from previous examples, which can be viewed positively or negatively depending on perspective. Nevertheless, Osha has now joined the ranks of iconic characters such as Darth Vader and Kylo Ren.

In Episode 5, Mae orchestrates a classic switcheroo involving Osha, who finds herself alone with Qimir. Here, Qimir attempts to exert his influence, possibly seeing Osha as the acolyte who could grant him the freedom he desires.

During a pivotal moment, Osha notices Qimir’s mask, prompting him to explain its dual purpose: “Cortosis, effective against lightsabers, and a sensory deprivation headpiece, as we used as younglings.” This revelation corroborates our earlier insights into the mask’s functionalities and ties into familiar themes seen throughout the franchise.

Despite its stark contrast to Jedi training helmets, Qimir’s statement resonates deeply: “It’s just you and the Force. And what you bring with you.” Sound familiar?

These words and the visions Osha is likely to experience when she wears the mask resonate with similar scenes in the franchise, where Jedi faced the temptations of the Dark Side, with varying outcomes.

Anakin Skywalker was the first to confront visions of a dark future, succumbing to them and transforming into Darth Vader. Luke Skywalker also faced such trials during his training with Yoda, but he resisted and remained true to the Jedi path. Kylo Ren encountered a comparable challenge on Dagobah, like Luke, but he succumbed to the lure of the Dark Side under Snoke’s influence. Rey’s encounter with her inner darkness was both surreal and enlightening.

Given this pattern, Osha seems poised for a transformative experience beneath Qimir’s mask. It’s a pivotal moment for her character development, though it echoes a familiar theme. While some originality would have been welcomed, if executed well, this storyline could enrich Osha’s journey as the fifth major character to undergo such trials.

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