"The Force is balance. For light to exist there must also be darkness."

Set on a forsaken world shrouded in shadow and ruin, the Star Wars fan film Dark Legacy is the story of a young woman named Kia (Erin Wu), who is the coerced apprentice of a powerful and mysterious Sith lord (Fabien Garcia, voiced by David Thomas).

In order to complete her "training," Kia must vanquish her sinister Sith master in a duel to the death.

Written and directed by Anthony Pietromonaco, Dark Legacy is a rare Star Wars story told from the perspective of the Sith - the enigmatic Dark Side worshipers who are the archenemies of the Jedi order.

In spirit, the short is the mirror image of another terrific fan film, HOSHINO, which chronicles the ascendance of a young woman from padawan to Jedi Knight.

Dark Legacy also continues the most welcome tradition began by The Force Awakens and Rogue One of centering Star Wars narratives around women protagonists.

The short is forbidding, gorgeous and alluring, boasting impressive production, including:

electrifying fight choreography by Phil Tan ( Pirates Of The Caribbean, Dragon Ball Z - Light Of Hope)

stunning special effects by Jaramy Aiello, and Mo Meinhart (Star Trek, The Walking Dead)

a deeply compelling narrative by Pietromonaco

mesmerizing use of light and shadow by director of photography Alex Chinnici

However, special mention must be made about Erin Wu's charismatic performance as Kia.

It takes an actor of rare ability to be able to convey intent and emotion without dialogue, but Wu succeeds in making Kia a very sympathetic character whose plight you quickly become invested in.

By the end of the short, you will want to find out more Kia, and where her fateful destiny will ultimately lead.

Watch Dark Legacy here ...