Jodie Turner-Smith discusses the intrigue behind episode three, and Rebecca Henderson details her prep with ‘The High Republic books.
(Photo Credit: The Hollywood Reporter)
Star Wars: The Acolyte Behind the Scenes
Jodie Turner-Smith and Rebecca Henderson, stars of Star Wars: The Acolyte, were transported to a galaxy far, far away the moment they arrived on the set in south-east England. Turner-Smith’s eagerness was so strong, that she even visited the set on a day off, unable to resist the chance to witness a key lightsaber duel.
Jodie Turner-Smith couldn’t contain her excitement for Star Wars: The Acolyte. Even on a day off, she visited the set to witness a pivotal scene: Amandla Stenberg’s character facing off against Carrie-Anne Moss. “Oh my God, this is Star Wars,” she remembers thinking, struck by the scene’s authenticity even before being in costume herself. This experience solidified the magic of the project for her, highlighting the immersive world the production team had created.
Though a Star Wars newbie, Jodie Turner-Smith found a familiar face behind the camera on “The Acolyte.” Director Kogonada, a frequent collaborator, helmed her performance in the third and seventh episodes of this mystery-thriller series created by Leslye Headland. This reunion marked their third project together, following the thought-provoking sci-fi film “After Yang” (2021). Their latest work, however, takes a sharp turn – “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey,” starring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell. This upcoming film highlights Kogonada’s versatility, as he takes the reins on a project quite different from the introspective world of “After Yang.” The choice itself speaks volumes: with her pick of projects after “Barbie,” Robbie opted for Kogonada’s vision for Seth Reiss’ script. This collaboration hints at a unique and potentially captivating experience for audiences.
Witnessing Kogonada’s directing style on “The Acolyte” was a revelation for Turner-Smith. “It was incredible to see him manipulate a project like this with his immense talent and vision,” she gushes. This experience solidified their creative bond. “I feel incredibly lucky he keeps calling me to work on his projects,” she adds. Her enthusiasm extends to their latest film, “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey,” which just wrapped filming. She describes the experience as “powerful,” hinting at a deeply impactful project.
Despite being new to Star Wars, British actress Jodie Turner-Smith and the enigmatic director Kogonada thrived in their fresh collaboration. Episode three, titled “Destiny,” showcased Kogonada’s ambitious vision. He began by introducing eight-year-old Osha and Mae, played by the talented Lauren and Leah Brady. The story then shifted to Turner-Smith’s character, Mother Aniseya. Hints suggest she may have wielded a unique force power called “the thread” to facilitate the birth of identical twins through her partner, Mother Koril (Margarita Levieva). This revelation remains shrouded in mystery for now. The narrative unfolds as they lead their exiled coven of witches on the distant planet of Brendok.
Star Wars: Disclaimer
This excerpt dives into the world of “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” a new live-action series set during the High Republic era. We hear from actress Jodie Turner-Smith, who is experiencing the magic of Star Wars firsthand, and her connection with director Kogonada, a familiar collaborator. Their creative partnership extends beyond “The Acolyte,” with upcoming projects showcasing Kogonada’s diverse directing styles.
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