In case you needed further proof that “The Acolyte” is being review-bombed, some so-called Star Wars fans have inadvertently targeted the 2008 film “Acolytes” on Rotten Tomatoes. Check it out…
The Misfire on Rotten Tomatoes
Currently, “The Acolyte” is “Certified Fresh” at 84% on Rotten Tomatoes. However, this percentage reflects critics’ verdicts, not fans’. It’s not unusual for the two scores to differ, but 16% is an exceptionally low score for a series generally well-received by viewers.
The Root of the Problem
There’s been a fair amount of review-bombing on Rotten Tomatoes, Google, and IMDb, with the prevailing belief that it’s in response to “The Acolyte’s” diverse, primarily female-led cast. While some genuinely dislike the series, the most apparent indication that most reviews aren’t genuine is the activity of some misguided Star Wars “fans.”
The Wrong Target
As reported on SFFGazette.com, many of these fans have mistakenly review-bombed the 2008 film “Acolytes,” seemingly unable to differentiate it from “The Acolyte.” The release of the third episode, featuring lesbian characters and a fresh take on Star Wars lore, has only amplified the fake reviews.
The Review Bombing Culture
We noticed the same behavior while reporting news about “The Acolyte”: disingenuous, malicious, and petty comments. Some call it the culture wars, but let’s call it what it really is—fraudulent and delusional hysteria. These people, or bots (who knows), are hellbent on converting others to their hate-filled circlejerk. The review bombing serves as “proof” that “nobody is watching” whatever it is they don’t like.
I’m not saying you have to watch it, like it, or bother with it. But here’s the thing: normal people avoid things they don’t like and move on. This constant campaigning to dethrone the phantom menace controlling Star Wars projects that rabid conspiracy theorists love to lie about is just that—a lie. Media evolves. Do these dolts really believe movies and TV shows are made exactly as they were 50, 70 years ago? Dialogue has changed, subjects have changed, and more people are getting a seat at the table.
I don’t even want to get into the “we just want better writing, we don’t care if the character is LGBTQ+ or a woman,” only for the conversation to shift to, “why is Lucasfilm alienating their target audience with all this wokeness?” You see what I’m saying? It’s a wolf in Jedi sheep’s clothing.
Authentic Reception
For what it’s worth, “The Acolyte” isn’t the most riveting show so far. It follows many of the familiar beats of a detective procedural, just with Star Wars props. It’s not the worst TV show ever, nor does it have the worst acting or dialogue. It’s a serviceable series, sitting above “The Book of Boba Fett” but below the first season of “The Mandalorian.” Its most interesting aspect is its disconnect from the Skywalker Saga, which is a refreshing change. Personally, I’ve had enough of the Skywalker drama and would welcome stories set in that same period but in a future far, far away. There are so many interesting tales, side quests, heists, and parallel universes that could be explored. If “The Acolyte” isn’t your cup of tea, don’t watch it. Stop acting like hysterical lunatics being force-fed make-believe stories about space wizards, you dorks.
Rotten Tomatoes’ Challenge
In the past, Rotten Tomatoes has attempted to curb review-bombing by requiring users to verify ticket purchases before posting reviews. Enforcing this policy for a TV show is, however, more challenging.
What’s Your Verdict?
How would you rate “The Acolyte” after watching the first three episodes?
About “The Acolyte”
“The Acolyte” follows an investigation into a shocking crime spree that pits a respected Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) against a dangerous warrior from his past (Amandla Stenberg). As more clues surface, they venture down a dark path where sinister forces reveal that all is not as it seems.
The series stars Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Charlie Barnett, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo, and Carrie-Anne Moss.
Behind the Scenes
The next Star Wars TV series comes from creator and showrunner Leslye Headland (“Russian Doll”), who also serves as executive producer alongside Kathleen Kennedy, Simon Emanuel, Jeff F. King, and Jason Micallef. Charmaine DeGraté and Kor Adana are co-executive producers, with Rayne Roberts and Damian Anderson producing.
Where to Watch
The first three episodes of “The Acolyte” are now streaming on Disney+.
Wrapping Up
It’s clear that “The Acolyte” is facing an unusual backlash, but the show’s genuine merits are apparent to those who watch it with an open mind. For more details and updates on “The Acolyte” and other series, visit Hitplay.
