Jason Momoa’s Chief of War combines spectacle and cultural pride, casting him as Kaʻiana, a Hawaiian noble navigating tribal conflict and colonial forces in the late 1700s. This isn’t just a TV show, it’s a deeply personal project for Momoa, who co-created, co-wrote, and stars in the series.
The series opens with a jaw-dropping scene: Kaʻiana grapples with a shark using only rope and kava. It’s visceral, mesmerizing, and unfortunately, unmatched in dramatic flair through much of the season.
Based on the real movement toward Hawaiian unification under prophecy and warfare, Chief of War stages major events with cinematic flourish. Think Game of Thrones-style politics, lava battles, and ritual violence.
True to history, it features largely Hawaiian-speaking dialogue, Polynesian warriors, and richly designed vessels and war gear guided by cultural advisors and language experts.
Jason Momoa’s Role: Charisma Over Complexity
Momoa shines physically, his presence is commanding, whether battling a beast or enduring volcanic blade fights. Yet critics note that his portrayal of Kaʻiana stays within familiar territory, offering limited emotional depth.
Temuera Morrison commands attention as Kahekili, Maui’s ambitious king driven by prophecy and conquest.
Luciane Buchanan as Kaʻahumanu brings measured strength, skillfully portraying a pivotal female leader emerging from tradition into power.
The ensemble is overwhelmingly native and Polynesian, lending authenticity and pride to the narrative.
Chief of War: From Myth to Modernity
The show grapples with prophecy, spiritual conflict, and the looming shadow of colonization. Kaʻiana’s arc, from reluctant warrior to exile and reformist, raises questions about identity, loyalty, and adaptation. Moments of cross-cultural tension with Europeans are layered with emotional weight.
The ninth episode, directed by Momoa, is a standout, blending lava fields, epic violence, and sweeping tragedy into a Ridley Scott-like vision. It suggests the storytelling ambition has real legs for future seasons.
Chief of War is both immersive and imperfect. Its strengths lie in cultural reverence, landscapes, and physical storytelling. Yet narrative depth and character arcs often take a backseat to action. If you’re drawn to historical epics with Indigenous voices and raw battlefield drama, this show delivers, but follow-through on layered storytelling may still be coming.
Chief of War at a Glance
- Platform: Apple TV+
- Premiere: August 1, 2025 (first two episodes, weekly after)
- Episodes: Nine
- Creators/Writers: Jason Momoa, Thomas Paʻa Sibbett, Doug Jung; Finale directed by Momoa
For viewers seeking cultural immersion in big‑screen drama, Chief of War offers an electrifying start. But those craving deeper character study may find Kaʻiana’s journey lacking. Still, as a landmark of Native Hawaiian storytelling and a showcase for Momoa’s personal legacy, it is undeniably memorable.
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