A new blockbuster drama showing on Apple TV could be one of the biggest programmes of the year. Chief of War charts the origins of Hawaii told through the protagonist Ka’iana, a fearless warrior on a mission to unite his homeland as 18th-century colonial powers threaten to disrupt their way of life forever.
It is the latest in Apple’s attempts to challenge the dominance of streaming giant Netflix by producing original content, and the early signs are that the series has been well received. The series has been given a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has earned stellar reviews from viewers. One viewer, Naveen Singh Mahar said: “Having watched the first two episodes of Chief of War, the show immediately draws comparisons to Apocalypto—not just for its historical sweep but for the visceral intensity of its action.
“The running and fight scenes deliver pure adrenaline, putting you right in the heart of bloody, high stakes battles where every moment counts.
“This physicality is woven through impressive choreography, lavish production, and an unflinching look at the brutality underlying the unification of Hawaii.”
Another Rick Ramnarine described it as a “masterful epic.”
They added: “I recently had the privilege of watching the premiere episode of “Chief of War,” and it was truly an extraordinary experience!
“This series masterfully combines compelling storytelling with breathtaking visuals. Jason and the entire cast embody the essence of their characters in a way that profoundly resonates.
“From the very beginning, I was captivated by the intricate world crafted by the creators. The meticulous attention to detail is remarkable, whether through the authentic depiction of culture or the immersive cinematography.
“Each scene is thoughtfully designed, transforming the viewing experience into something both entertaining and enlightening.
“”Chief of War” is an absolute must-see for anyone who values exceptional storytelling and outstanding production quality.”
The colonisation of the island, as with much of the colonial world, is often mis-understood in popular culture whether through ignorance or in the pursuit of drama and artistic license.
Apple’s latest offering seeks to bring accuracy and reality to its depiction, dismissing popular Hawaiin stereotypes still present in the modern day.
Chief of War does away with women wearing coconut costumes or grass skirts, depictions curated in the post-colonial era to make the indigenous population seem inferior and savage.
Creator, executive producer, director and co-writer Jason Momoa said in the series’ production notes: “When people come from far and wide to spend time in Hawaii, they fall in love with it, because there’s something special.
“It’s an umbilical cord to the centre of the Earth. But many people have no idea of our history.”
The show is currently showing on Apple TV now, with new episodes added every Friday.