‘Chief of War’ Review: Jason Momoa’s Gritty Hawaiian Epic Brings History to Life
‘Chief of War’ Review: Battleground Hawaii Apple TV+ has taken a bold swing with Chief of War, and it connects. Co-created by and starring Jason Momoa, the series plunges viewers into the brutal, breathtaking world of 18th-century Hawaii—long before it became a U.S. state, and long before much of its complex past was erased or rewritten.
If you came for sun-kissed beaches and aloha shirts, this is not that Hawaii. Instead, Chief of War gives us blood, honor, betrayal, and the soul of a culture fighting for its survival. This is not just a vanity project for Momoa—it’s a passion project, and it shows in every frame.
A Story Carved from Stone and Fire
The story centers on Ka’iana, a revered Hawaiian warrior (played by Momoa) who returns home after years abroad to find his people at war with each other—and on the verge of facing a greater threat from European colonizers. His internal battle is just as intense as the external one: torn between loyalty to his bloodline and his vision for a united, independent Hawaii.
What follows is an epic struggle of tribes, kings, and ideologies. The series does not shy away from the harsh realities of Hawaiian history—the violence, the politics, the rituals, and the profound sense of identity rooted in the land.
The writing is sharp, the pacing tight, and the dialogue authentic, often switching between Hawaiian and English, with subtitles that feel like a respectful nod to the culture rather than an inconvenience.
Jason Momoa in Peak Form
Momoa is magnetic here, but he doesn’t just rely on physicality. There’s emotional depth in his performance—rage, regret, resolve—that we haven’t seen this powerfully from him since See or early Game of Thrones. His commitment to showcasing Hawaiian heritage and the Polynesian warrior spirit elevates the show beyond just another historical drama.
Supporting cast members like Temuera Morrison (as a rival chief) and newcomer Kanoa Goo add layered performances that bring nuance to a story often left untold in mainstream media.
Cinematic in Every Frame
Visually, Chief of War is stunning. Cinematographer Flavio Martínez Labiano (of Jungle Cruise) captures Hawaii in its raw, pre-tourism glory—jagged cliffs, smoky volcanoes, roaring ocean, and dense jungles that feel like living, breathing characters. The action sequences are visceral without being excessive, and the traditional costumes and weaponry are crafted with clear attention to cultural accuracy.
The series boasts production value on par with Vikings and The Last Kingdom, but with a distinct voice and flavor all its own.
A Cultural Statement, Not Just a Show
More than a series, Chief of War feels like a reclamation. It gives Hawaiian people a space to see their ancestors not as passive victims of colonialism but as fierce leaders, lovers, and fighters. The narrative doesn’t cater to outsiders—it demands respect for the language, the traditions, and the land.
“We didn’t want to romanticize or sanitize,” said Momoa during the premiere. “This is our truth. Our history. Our mana.”
That authenticity hits hard, especially in moments of ceremonial preparation, ancestral worship, or when the characters face moral decisions steeped in ancient codes.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Epic
If you’re searching for a show that blends historical drama with cultural weight, look no further than Chief of War. It’s unapologetic, emotionally charged, and visually gripping. It respects its subject matter while keeping audiences hooked through tight storytelling and compelling characters.
This isn’t just Jason Momoa’s best TV work—it’s also a gift to a culture that deserves the spotlight. It’s rare to see indigenous stories told with this level of budget and care, and Chief of War sets a new standard.
