Chief of War Season 1 Review

Platform: Apple TV+
Genre: Historical Drama / Action
Starring: Jason Momoa, Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan
Created by: Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa’a Sibbett

🌺 Introduction

Chief of War Season 1 is an ambitious historical epic that dives into the 18th-century Hawaiian islands, focusing on indigenous resistance, colonization, and cultural pride. Created by and starring Jason Momoa, the series is both a personal and cinematic passion project that offers a compelling, if uneven, look into a rarely depicted piece of Pacific history.

🛡️ Plot Overview

The story follows Ka’iana, a former island warrior who returns to Hawaii after years abroad, only to find his homeland caught in the grip of tribal wars and foreign influence. As the Western world begins to encroach upon Hawaii’s sovereignty, Ka’iana must choose between living in exile or becoming a central figure in the islands' fight for unification and freedom.

🎭 Performances

Jason Momoa shines in a deeply emotional and grounded role, shedding his usual larger-than-life persona for a more introspective character. Temuera Morrison, as Ka’iana’s estranged father, delivers gravitas and depth. Luciane Buchanan, playing Ka’iana’s love interest and political ally, gives the show its emotional heartbeat.

🎥 Visuals & Direction

The show’s greatest strength lies in its breathtaking cinematography. Shot on-location in Hawaii and New Zealand, the lush green landscapes, volcanic terrain, and oceanic beauty serve as a living, breathing backdrop. Directors skillfully weave in native rituals, war chants, and traditional attire that add authenticity and reverence to the culture.

🗣️ Cultural Significance

More than just a period drama, Chief of War is a cultural reclamation project. It honors indigenous storytelling, language, and traditions, highlighting the inner conflicts of identity, loyalty, and resistance. Momoa’s commitment to portraying Hawaiian heritage respectfully is evident, and for that alone, the series deserves attention.

⚖️ The Downsides

While emotionally powerful and visually rich, the pacing can be slow at times, particularly in the middle episodes. Some secondary characters feel underwritten, and the politics—though historically grounded—can occasionally overwhelm the narrative clarity.