As an avid fan of history, I’m immediately sat the moment I see the words “historical epic.” The less I know about the period, the better. Especially given the dubious accuracy of many of these films and shows. While I can’t speak for the veracity of Apple TV+’s Chief of War, it certainly has the “epic” part down. There’s a massive scope at work along with a part of history that is thoroughly unexplored.
A passion project for co-creators Thomas Pa’a Sibbett and Jason Momoa, Chief of War uses the natural grace of the islands of Hawaii to tell the bloody tale of their unification. Momoa, who also co-wrote every episode, stars as Ka’iana, a former warrior chief who is called back to the fight. A prophecy states that there will be a great warrior who helps unite the islands, and King Kahekili (Temuera Morrison) believes Ka’iana is that man. Things only get more complicated from there with the arrival of English fur traders and a growing war between Kahekili and the other island kings.
This is a show with a lot of moving pieces, and it takes its time setting them up. These people have a past and a vibrant culture that we quickly become used to. The first two episodes are all in Hawaiian, and when English speakers arrive, it feels like a real intrusion. The commitment to world-building comes at the expense of character in these installments. Thankfully, the series puts in the time later on to further establish our main cast.
Momoa is putting in his career best for this show, anchoring a mostly unknown cast of actors. His presence is commanding before he throws a single fist. Make no mistake, Momoa is also adept at the action as well. Chief of War does not skimp on the brutality of the fight scenes, and Momoa’s physicality adds to it. Luciane Buchanan plays the other side of the coin as Ka’ahumanu, the consort to King Kamehameha. Her kindness and determination make her a great foil to Ka’iana. Add in a terrifying performance from Temura Morrison and you have a trifecta of great acting to build around.
While Chief of War has its slow moments, the show succeeds by crafting a historical epic that feels both grand and human. There’s a commitment to recreating the time and culture that is commendable. All of it in service of a story that has gone untold is equally admirable. That the focus remains on our main cast, even as the English speakers infiltrate more and more of their world, adds an extra layer of depth. More history deserves to be told with this level of care.
Chief of War is currently streaming on Apple TV+. New episodes release on Fridays.