Star Wars: The Acolyte – Kelnacca #1 is a case of unfortunate timing, as it comes out shortly after the television series it was based on was canceled. There’s a lot to be said about this, and a lot more about the online discussion around The Acolyte and what exactly some fans want out of Star Wars, but I will definitely say that Kelnacca #1 is for the fans who loved The Acolyte or who grew to love the High Republic era of Star Wars.
True to its title, Star Wars: The Acolyte – Kelnacca #1 is focused on the Wookiee Jedi Kelnacca prior to his appearance in The Acolyte. More specifically, it focuses on the bond between Kelnacca and his former apprentice Yarizon. On his deathbed, Yarizon recounts tales of how he came to be Kelnacca’s Padawan to his own apprentice Ordea.
Kelnacca being a Wookiee means that he has a life span that’s longer than most beings in the Star Wars universe; writer Cavan Scott uses this to his advantage, telling a tale that spans all the way from the beginning of the High Republic era to the current period of time said era is in. He also takes a unique approach with Kelnacca; where most Wookiees, like Chewbacca or Black Krrsantan, are often growling Kelnacca is fairly silent – speaking only when he needs to. Scott uses this character trait to showcase how observant Kelnacca truly is, and how it shapes his connection with Yarizon.
Marvel Comics
Credit also goes to the art team of Marika Cresta, Jim Campbell and Ariana Maher for fleshing out Kelnacca. Cresta draws Kelnacca as towering over everyone he meets, but the look in his eyes and his body posture are far from threatening (and considering this is a 7-foot-tall Wookiee with space magic and a laser sword, that’s saying something.) Cresta also captures Yarizon at various stages in his life, with the one constant being the tattoos etched on his head, which play a surprising role in the story. Campbell draws the reader’s eye whenever a Jedi ignites their lightsaber, particularly Kelnacca’s emerald green blade, and Maher’s lettering gives Kelnacca the distinct growl of a Wookiee whenever he speaks.
The book also features an essay detailing how Joonas Suotamo, who plays Kelnacca in The Acolyte, helped shape the character, both on screen and on the page. The fact that Suotamo has a clear passion for playing Kelnacca, and the fact that the creative team was able to translate it on screen, is what makes Star Wars: The Acolyte – Kelnacca #1 stand out from your usual Star Wars one-shots. If you love The Acolyte, or Star Wars in general, this is a comic not to be missed.
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