Only came across you recently, but this is easily my favourite channel now. Not just because we blindly agree on things, but because of your deep and encompassing understanding of lore, which I feel like is a big part of why this show is more enjoyable. The pacing issues etc. don't magically disappear, of course, but I am deeply impressed with how deep they went to explore the phiolosphical debate of light and dark side force users, and the institution of the Jedi. I do hope we'll also get some healthy criticism of the Sith down the line. Do also very much appreciate their love for elements of the EU that they have reinserted, in my opinion, well.

Honestly, kinda depressing that there are so few channels are giving Acolyte a fair chance.

His patient approach to convincing Osha is very much the Sith way. If the Sith couldn't control their emotions, they would not have survived with the rule of two for a thousand years.

"Freedom. The freedom to wield my power the way I like." This line reminded me of Ahsoka and Ezra. They both explored the Force in their own ways, developing and using their powers for their own reasons -- because they had the freedom to do so. But Qimir can't do anything without some High Republic Jedi coming along and meddling, if not outright stopping him. The Force seeks harmony and balance -- but if one side is restricting the exploration of the other, that balance is broken. So for there to be true balance, a person needs the option to choose -- that "freedom to wield my power the way I like."

It's not just the Star Wars discussions that make your videos great. My wife and I often talk about your outlook on many things you bring up during your videos and how much we agree with you. But one of the things that we respect the most, is that even if we severely disagree with you on a subject, you're someone who can discuss it without turning it into a hatefest. Thank you so much for your work and perspective.

I don’t think it literally blocks the force. He’s just saying it hones your senses since it’s a sensory deprivation thing. Gives you clarity of mind.

Yes thank you for bringing up Kanan losing his sight but still a capable fighter Manny Jacinto is carrying this series on his scar ridden back...

Best Star Wars channel there is.

Luke himself said the Jedi Order was too full of hubris and, in a constantly repeating cycle, created their own enemies while simultaneously living in denial of doing so.

The Stranger was voted mostly likely to score with a set of twins by his Youngling graduating class.

I mean, maybe overlooking Qmir being all 'I want freedom,' *breaking kid's neck.* Err, that's not 'semantics.' That's another kind of danger.

Best thing The Acolyte did for me is I discover you because of this show. Lots of people just shitting on the show for easy clicks. It is sad that many people fall into the dark side through unreasonable hate and baited because of their emotions. Show's quality is arguable but story is interesting, what they are trying to do is interesting, characters like Sol and Qimir are very good additions to the SW universe. I am enjoying the show and I just want to discuss what going on with the story. Your videos are very informative and enjoyable.

I think your spot on with your comments about the Jedi tapping in to the dark side when they think no one can see them, I feel like its almost inevitable for younger less disciplined Jedi to prevent themselves from going there especially under life or death combat situations 👍 nice work Allan keep it up.

Best star wars page there is. Objective analysis instead of rage baiting. Thank you sir.

Your last couple videos have just been great! Love your fair reviews and unbiased opinions

A lot of people were hating on that helmet because "haha how can he see in that thing lmao" my brother in christ, you're watching star wars. Like Kreia said, "When one relies on sight to perceive the world, it is like trying to stare at the galaxy through a crack in the door"

The Stranger/Qimir is one of the most interesting characters in the franchise, reminds me a bit of Ventress. Baylen is an interesting contrast too.

The last episode was brutal this one seems more like its setting something big up

And this is why people like Thor Skywalker and others who keep harping on about "balance in the Force means there's only the light side" drive me bonkers. As you've said, one use of the dark side in any form does not a raging Sith make. People also go silly in thinking that the concept of "grey Jedi" (Je'Daii) means fans wanting to be able to throw Force lightning around without consequences (putting aside Plo-Kloon's light side version of the power). It isn't. It's a more relaxed emotional mentality that means you let yourself feel all the good and bad emotions, maybe lose one's self in them every so often, but regain control once that's done. Like someone who moderately partakes in alcohol or soft drugs doing a bender as an occasional thing. And yes, it can end up being a problem, a spiralling "gateway" to ruining one's life, but that can happen with many things.

Man, of all the Star Wars channels out there I really resonate with your viewpoint. I appreciate your objective look on the show rather than just bashing it.

7:40 I usually only listen to these, but I'm glad I was watching this video for this hilarious insert. Props to the editor.

I liked the specific naming of Cortosis and don't mind the expansion of its capability, but if I understood it correctly, it wasn't blocking the force but was acting as a sensory deprivation, in fact making it easier to connect with the force, as you stated. But I may have misunderstood that. My assumption is that Osha putting on the helmet will lead her to connect more deeply with the force and have a new recall of the Brendock incident. However, if the helmet is a sensory deprivation tool, then Qimir should not have been able to have a conversation during the fight. Possibly the force could explain being able to engage (not seeing with eyes nor hearing with ears, etc), but then not sure how it functions as a force suppression element. I could also go with he can hear somewhat, but then again, it's not an effective sensory suppression device and it didn't seem like he was having difficulty hearing. It feels a bit like they wanted to have their cake and eat it to. Not a bad idea, just wish they didn't have him talk until after the helmet was removed (perhaps even not adjusting his head position to noise and fighting more like Zatoichi if we want to stick with the Japanese inspiration). I do like the use of it as a cheat (dark side), very much going into Yoda saying it is (quicker easier, more seductive), and may help explain Qimir struggling more after losing the helmet.

Thanks for being the only channel to actually engage with the Acolyte. This show, and your videos for it, have switched which SW channel is my go-to thru out the week

This episode won me. I'm hooked. Killing Jedi by more closely connecting to the force than them with a Jedi training technique... chef's kiss.

Does he heal Osha there? I mean you clearly see her with a bloodied bandage on her side this episode, I was assuming that mean he just gave her SpaceFirstAid

Well, I don´t think that the "Cortosis" part of the sensory depriviation is the kicker here. It´s actually just having the helmet, any helmet, cut you off from the outside, that does the trick. As someone who has done a lot of medieval martial arts and was there at the advent of HEMA, we know the thing some call Helmet Fatigue, Helmet Panic or similar terms. It´s when being alone with yourself in the helmet, with limited view, and room to breathe, really gets to you. It´s brutal when you first encounter it, and when someone is pummeling your helmet, while you are about to lose it, there is NOTHING you want to do more than take that freaking thing off. You don´t need the force to feel that, not at all. But learning to be calm in there, to take whatever comes and just accept it, to keep breathing deep and controlled breaths, while using all your senses, because you cannot see jack shit, is when you become the better fighter. And that´s what happens, when you get comfortable fighting with a closed helmet. You make the most of your situation, you get comfortable there, and you are ready to stand it. In my opinion, that´s the lesson here, and whoever thought of that, definitely had Helmet Panic at one point or another in order to understand that.

You’ve gotta love the details on No-Name’s helmet with the scratches

It's clear Qimir was a jedi padawan, so he knows how to counter it.

Honestly I love Quimir (?). He makes some very good points, he is kinda funny imo and I'm a sucker for badass morally grey/ non moral characters. Really looking forward to how this plays out

Its refreshing to watch content and read comments sections that aren't flooded with "dIsNeY rUiNeD sTar wArS" rants... this channel, Screen Crush and Star Wars Meg are pretty much the only ones i bother with now.

The Rise and Fall (and Rise) of the Jedi is fascinating to me because it's the story of a noble institution with noble intentions slowly falling prey to corruption, with a few last fading embers (Qui-Gon, for instance) holding out against the darkness until eventually they're undone by the enemy hiding in plain sight. The Jedi Order of the prequels makes for fascinating discussion, as they're at once an order of peacekeepers pressed into service as generals who fight to preserve life but have no problem having Geonosians incinerated by flamethrowers (looking right at you Ki-Adi, keep on walkin'). When I was a kid, I loved the Jedi as the good guys. Now I see them as not simply heroic archetypes, but people too, flaws and all. It's what makes Star Wars so fascinating to me, in that both perceptions of the Jedi can be correct at the same time. Love it, and love your channel. Keep up the great work!

I like them showing this. A Sith has to be in control, if they weren't they'd have been wiped out from being blinded by their emotions. Blind rage doesn't help you, however focused rage does. Not only that, this also shows how insidious the Sith are. It's kinda hard to get followers if you just portray yourself right out of the gate as a nutjob. A true Sith would make a person think their actions and beliefs are justified, that they are reasonable and even admirable. "I'm not a tyrant, I'm a savior." Things like that. After all Palpatine spent decades making a reputation. He also approached Anakin as a friend or mentor. He lent him an ear, told him stories and things, let him vent. That's how the Sith work. They come out as down to earth, even friendly. They get others to drop their guard and make them compromise their beliefs. Sith are many things but they're also patient.

Funny. When I saw the fight, I wondered how he could see out of the helmet. Chalked it up to Rule of Cool. Didn't realize they would make a point of it.

After watching the sixth episode of The Acolyte, I feel this show would have been ten times more interesting if Smilo Ren were the main character and the show focused on his fall to the dark side and Master Sol was his former Jedi Master. They are the only characters I care about. But that's just me. Like the show or hate it, these two characters and their actors, Manny Jacinto and Lee Jung-jae, are carrying the show.

Qimir is a legit cool ass character, I hope they keep him alive with the same attitude. Really the only reason I am still watching the show.

Im gonna start using this handy trick to drive, I need to buy a helmet...

This has been a great channel for some time, but The Acolyte discourse has really separated it as the cream of the crop of StarWars KZfaq. Major props to you.

Imagine the memes if Qimir would have made cookies instead of soup. Jokes aside, always a pleasure to see your videos Alan, keep it up! :)

We love you Allan!!

I love seeing the REAL way sith manipulate people. I liked that about Palp too.

I mean... It's quite hard to argue that emotions aren't bad for the Jedi when every time a Jedi dips into their emotions, people end up dead.... I mean, the entire Republic and Jedi order fell because Anakin couldn't let go of the people he loved, because Obi-Wan loved Anakin as a brother and couldn't do what needed to be done at Mustafar, because Mace Windu was impatient and I'd even say jealous of Anakin, because Dooku lost Qui-Gon and wouldn't let injustice in the galaxy happen anymore, Bariss turned to the dark side detonated a bomb in the Jedi Temple that killed a lot of people and then framed her best friend because her empathy for the people lost in the war was taking over. The Jedi obviously dont help themselves, but I understand why they were so dogmatic... Jedi who give into their emotions end up making bad decisions and end up becoming the thing they swore to protect against. "Absolute power corrupts absolutely" The Jedi order understands that they have a lot of power (physically and politically) and that its easy to abuse that power... by cutting off emotions and committing themselves to the light side its less likely they will become the problem. I personally like the idea of the helmet, the Jedi have always been taught to give themselves into the force, depriving himself of outside stimulus means he has to rely on the force to guide his actions and warn him of dangers which is exactly what the Jedi teach.

This is the best Star Wars KZfaqr. I love many others but after watching regularly for years I have to say you are the best. Big best.

Kenobi dismembered Skywalker. That’s tapping into the Dark Side. My issue with the use of the Dark Side is when it becomes part of the routine. The High Republic era Jedi used counseling for Jedi who were tempted by the Dark Side instead of dismissal.

Obi-Wan absolutely tapped into the Dark Side in EP1 when he fought Maul after Qui-Gon died.

On your points around how many Jedi use both sides of the Force, I think what you are alluding to is spot on. It aligns with the story beats in Fallen Order and Jedi Survivor when you consider both Cere's and Cal's connection to the Force.

"Your rage is a gift, use it for good." someone on KZfaq

I’m really enjoying this series. I really like the way they showed a ‘new’ style of Jedi fighting, far more defensive and felt right for the era. I just wish each episode was longer and if that’s my only negative, then the show might be doing something right. Really hoping we get to see more flash backs to see Sol’s fallen Jedi colleagues that Mae was after.

If anything this show elevates Kenobi and Yoda,love this show and I love your take on cortosis,fantastic video.

Just thrilled beyond belief to finally find a youtuber not constantly BASHING this show and Disney Star Wars in general ( Yes,..the show has its problems and issues) but its NOT the unrelenting train wreck the rest of the internet seems to express. Infact that whole cottage industry thats developed online to just get clicks by bashing Disney Lucasfilms and specific execs via personal attacks is just morally bankrupt . There's a lot i certainly do not like about Disney Star Wars but honestly,.theres also a lot of good stuff in it as well. I guess,.like a Jedi ive found balance

Alan vs Thor debate on the jedi would be legendary

I always believed there was a ' third ' way to wield the force other than how the Jedi and Sith wield it.

Qimir and Sol are the best characters on the show for me. Lee Jung Jae's acting is fantastic. The fact that the dude learned English for the role just blows my mind. His English is pretty good too!

0:45 in your episode breaking down the fight, i left a comment asking if the helmet did something along the lines of Lukes training helmet with the blast sheild down, making you rely less on your senses, and more on the force itself. It could also be why "he doesnt follow the rules of combat" maybe he is just following the force?

Loved this episode, a nice calm interlude after the chaos of the previous. Also did you mean Star Wars Spice or Earth Spice, because they'll have to prize my smoked paprika from my cold dead hands

This great stuff, Alan. Appreciate your hard work, sir. Still it was jarring seeing Jecki and Yord left for dead there. I was hoping Jecki would had made it.

I would totally be up for Qimir getting his own series. Interesting character.

I am convinced that the stranger is the Acolyte.he says that he was rejected by his master. This does not mean Jedi master. He even says that his motivation is to find an acolyte to prove he is now a master after his rejection. I also think that he was on the planet when the fire started, probably there to take out the witches and learn of there force powers. This is where he was betrayed by the true sith Master. I must admit after the first three episodes I did not think I liked the show, but it is fun to theorize where the story might lead. I could be completely wrong though

Yeah, seriously man keep up the great work. It’s much appreciated. It’s much needed.

Please break down Bazil's fight scene

Man, I’d love to have a beer with you and talk Star Wars, even if I don’t know as much of the lore as you do.I’m honestly liking this show more as it coined on, even though I still think the writing is overall average. The thing I disagree with the Jedi about is they act like all emotions will always lead to the dark side. People have light and dark in them. Controlling yourself to not give in to the darkness is what’s important. In a lot of ways it’s like faith, or willpower. You never know how strong those things are unless they’re tested.

I hope your head is feeling better, my friend.

Forgot how good your channel is. Got sick of all the redundant info dumps with click bait the Star Wars channels are known for. I do feel like yours were always better. More organized. Less redundant. Really critical. Good stuff mate- gna resubscribe- your coverage is more entertaining than some of the content lol. Also- your coverage of Andor show was excellent.. I remember knowing, as the first episode ended.. that your channel was the one to run to and check out

Yay, Generation Tech!!!🧡💛

As always, a great video. Your outlook on things in the star wars shows and real life are great, and I agree that Andor is a true gem to watch.

This video is a great example of why I keep coming back. You get all the great info without the opinion pushing and high handed moral agenda bs. Thank ya. Thank ya very much

I rather enjoy episodes like this, especially when I rewatch a series back to back. It's a much needed break from the intense emotions of the mid-story conflict. Getting to know the big bad better is also important. I also love that he's fighting entirely through his connection with the Force and totally schooled those overconfident Jedi with it. Did he learn that when he was in Jacksonville and locked himself in that safe?

My stance on the whole Cortosis debacle. I've been asking for fights like this on screen for over a decade.

love your show I like how you explain the show and the lore and everything without bashing a bunch of people to death.

Looks like Cal has used more of the Dark side ability than Qimir has.

I enjoyed Manny Jacinto on the good place, but he's single-handedly carrying this series on his scarred back. Yours is the only Star Wars channel that I care to check out video after video. Appreciate your passion, objectivity and thoughtful insights.

What they did with Qymir is so cool. Like he said he's very down to earth and he's just pretty cool. Very underrated

A lot of Jedi definitely seem to... 'dip their toes' when things get sufficiently life or death. In many ways the ones who do best seem to be the ones who can do so then step back afterword's. Not overly hesitate to do so, which gets them killed, like we saw in Episode 5, or all to far into it, or be consumed about it after it's over. It's a very difficult balance to handle, and might be one that relies more on natural inclination than training. At least, with the training methods the Jedi use.

I think the concept of cortosis is awesome. It’s a rare enough material to not become a cheap gimmick, but has unique properties most Jedi aren’t prepared for. I think it benefits the lore.

Your videos are SUPERB!!! Thank you! You always have a unique outlook on things.

It's a great direction - glad they're further exploring the fabled "hypocrisy of the jedi." Lightsaber combat tactics like turning the saber on and off, hidden blade, special armor etc makes the fights more martial arts like and fun

Your reviews are on a completely different level! Thanks for this, for me it really enriches the Acolyte.

The thing is Sith and Jedi are the opposite Side of the same medal. In one are only positve Emotion and one the other are only negative Emotions allowed. Love your videos and your calm and reflecting kind. Your accept other opinions and especially in a kind of exhausting franchise is this a relief.❤

Hey now! Thank you again for being who you are...for doing what you do man. The analysis and the way your mind works... It's good stuff. Makes a good show even that much better.

Man he fought hella hard while barely being able to see

Yes. A MOON! Only a moon falling on him, could ever break Chewies plot armor! Great books.

I did like how all Osha could hear was her own breathing, gave a real Vader vibe to wearing the helmet.

"Not Dog*" is such a fitting name for that lil critter ☺️

7:45 love that Tupac force ghost meme😂

That soup of his probably keeps his body and mind sharp, making him even more powerful.

2 videos in a day, my dude making me OD on extra doses of Alan. I 100% agree on all points in this video.

Also with bringing up kanan this makes me wonder if qimir was a temple guard so he's already trained to fight blind like that

Alan totally Rocks!! Well spoken, intelligent, and hilarious at times. Thanks Alan keep up the great work 👍

Thank you for reviewing the show and not having your review consist of a complaint about the same 4 things none of which seems truly constructive nor nuanced 👍🏻 these other “fans” are driving me crazy

The "sith" had to have been the padawan of green lady. In legends, if a force user had a light whip, the counter to that was a shoto.

Qimir has an awesome helmet.

I love how it's bringing out how far the Jedi and Sith lost the plot. Only in balance can you be the most effective

It would be cool if we see Plageous pull up on Qimir like Palpatine did to Maul and Oppress and shows the true difference between a Sith Lord and whatever Qimir is

Qimir has proven to be very resourceful and doesn't just follow the rule of cool with his look. Most impressive that his helmet utilizes the basic training of a youngling to maximize his combat abilities.

I would argue that cortosis is not blocking jedi mind reading. Qimir does not say that. He says it is sensory depriving leaving you alone with the force. I think the ability to focus on the force so strongly thanks to the sensory deprivation allows him to block force mind reading with his own force power. Without the sensory deprivation there are too many distractions to accomplish this. I assume he has trained this ability as well, and we have seen minds blocking minds in star wars before. Leia blocking Reva, Rey blocking Kylo, and Watto's whole species being immune.

lowkey, the helmet is the best reveal so far.

Cortosis is really versatile blocking material. In the Darth Plagueis novel, it even blocked Sith Lighting when Plagueis tried to destroy a probe droid.

Think Qimir was the padawan of Rwoh? Either he turned or had a curiosity with the Dark Side. She either tried to off him or they fought, explaining his scars and his "loss". Also explains her insisting on keeping this hush-hush. She doesn't want anyone to know that Qimir escaped, and now having another Dark Jedi on the loose has her stressed enough that she ventured off planet. She also seemed to have an idea who had killed the Jedi away team. Just theorizing and speculating like everybody on the net. Thanks again for having a more positive outlook on the show.

2:05 YOU BECAME THE VERY THING YOU SWORE TO DESTROY

Fascinating video. Top stuff👌

Live debate with a jedi enthusiast would be awesome!