Jason Momoa’s powerful performance inChief of Warproves that Apple TV+ may have found its version of the Emmy-winning historical drama series,Shōgun. Set in the late 18th century in the Hawaiian Islands,Chief of Waroffers an immersive and authentic portrait of the battles that shaped the 50th state in the U.S.
Chief of War’sgreatest achievement is how absorbed it is in its rich history. Similar toShōgunand even Netflix’sAmerican Primeval, the use ofextreme and traditional forms of violence is a harrowing and visceral portrayal of Hawaiian tribal culture. There’s history written into every aspect ofChief of War, which is evidence of how muchMomoa, who also co-created the show, poured his heart into its execution.
At nine episodes,Chief of Warhas achieved a thoughtful ebb and flow viewing experience in which the slower moments are greatly contrasted with the many unforgettable battle scenes. Although the storytelling may not be assharp or full-bodied asShōgunseason 1,Chief of Waris still highly entertaining while also being educational.
Jason Momoa Delivers A Career-Best Performance As Chief Of War’s Star Actor & Co-Creator
Momoa’s Passion For The Series Is Felt & Seen In Every Frame
Jason Momoa’s acting is at an all-time pinnacle inChief of War, which is spoken almost entirely in native Hawaiian. As Ka’iana, a noble warrior from one of the four Hawaiian kingdoms, Momoa achieves a depth of emotion and passion that even his most famous roles, like Aquaman and Dante, have never given.
The ensemble cast inChief of Waralso elevates the series, particularlyTemuera Morrison, who plays the ferocious King Kahekili. Most, if not all, of the actors rise to the acting standard set by Momoa, which creates a cohesive chemistry and a source of conflict in the various dynamics that unfold.
So long as Momoa remains front and center in the camera and on the page,Chief of Waris textured and fascinating enough to become a celebrated recurring series.
Other cinematic elements, especially thestunning cinematography and a thrillingDune-esque score by Hans Zimmer, combine to makeChief of Wara pristine snapshot of history. The historical significance of these true stories is felt in every frame ofChief of War, which is the Apple TV+ show’s best argument for having a legitimate answer to FX’sShōgun.
WithShōgunseason 2 already in development after debuting as a limited series, it’s evident that Apple TV+ is likely hoping for a similar growth strategy. So long as Momoa remains front and center in the camera and on the page,Chief of Waris textured and fascinating enough to become a celebrated recurring series.
Chief Of War Brings A Tragic Tale Of Imperialism & Colonization To Life
It Places The Overlooked History Of Hawaii In A Remarkable Perspective
Not only isChief of Warstunning and immersive, but it also highlights thetragedy and bloodshed buried in the soil and sands of what has become a popular tourist destination today. Given Momoa’s Polynesian descent, there is arguably no better Hollywood star to take the reins of this series, which cements it as not only a great show but an important artifact.
All things considered,Chief of Waris not a perfect show and certainly has a couple of notable flaws. Its biggest one may be itsvolatile and jagged pacing between slower moments and its action-packed scenes. While some of the war and adventure scenes are genuinely among the most enthralling on TV in 2025, they sometimes overshadow some of the quieter scenes, rendering them mundane.
These slower elements are typically meant to draw acute attention to the cultural aspects and traditions that are seeped intoChief of Warfrom start to finish.Sometimes the show can feel like a history museum exhibit, which can be fascinating or not, depending on the viewer.
The inevitable comparisons toShōgunwill likely be the biggest challenge thatChief of Warwill face in terms of critical and audience reception.Shōgunarguably has a better blend of fact and fiction and holds a higher entertainment value, whereasChief of Warcreates such an authentic portrayal that may work against it as a TV show.
Chief of Waris undoubtedly a success for what it set out to achieve. It feels unfair to judge a show like this purely based on entertainment value when so much of its worth comes from its authentic portrayal of tradition and culture, particularly the imperialism that shapes the Hawaiian Islands into what they are today.Chief of Waris ultimately a rewarding watch and one of the standouts of Momoa’s entire career.
Chief of War
Cast
Chief of War (2025) follows the journey of the fierce warrior Kaʻiana, who sets out on a mission to unite Hawaii’s four divided kingdoms amidst warfare. As internal conflicts rage, an impending external threat looms, challenging Kaʻiana’s efforts to bring peace to his people.
