Chief of War Review: 7 Things You Should Know Before Watching

Introduction

Jason Momoa returns—not with a trident, but with a purpose. In Chief of War, Apple TV+ delivers an ambitious eight-episode historical drama rooted in early 18th-century Hawaii. While many expect action, the series offers something more: cultural depth, political resistance, and indigenous pride.

But does Chief of War actually do justice to this powerful narrative?

Let’s break down 7 essential things to know before watching.

1. It’s Based on a Real Warrior — Ka‘iana

The main character, Ka‘iana, is not a fictional hero. He was a real Hawaiian chief who lived in the late 1700s and played a key role during the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.

What’s fascinating is that Ka‘iana rebelled against King Kamehameha, which makes this series unique—it’s told from the perspective of someone who resisted Hawaii’s most famous king.

2. Jason Momoa Isn’t Just Acting—He Co-Created It

Jason Momoa didn’t just star in this series; he co-created and co-wrote it. This personal involvement adds emotional weight. Momoa, who is of Native Hawaiian descent, has long spoken about the lack of indigenous stories on screen. This series feels like his love letter to ancestral roots.

3. The Story is More Political Than You Might Expect

Don’t expect constant sword fights or Game-of-Thrones-style betrayals. Chief of War focuses on Hawaii’s fractured political system, European colonization, and internal tribal politics. It’s a slow burn—more strategy than spectacle.

But this also means the series challenges viewers to think, not just watch.

4. Visually Stunning, Historically Rich

The cinematography in Chief of War is breathtaking. Think lush Hawaiian landscapes, native costumes, and hand-crafted villages. But more importantly, the series sticks closely to real historical events.

It even shows the arrival of Europeans and the introduction of Western weapons into tribal conflicts—something rarely explored in mainstream TV.

5. It May Not Be for Everyone

Some critics argue that the pacing is slow and the tone overly serious. If you're looking for a quick-action series, this may not be your pick.

But if you enjoy deep character studies and layered storytelling, Chief of War will reward your patience.

6. It’s a Cultural Statement

The show is not just a drama—it’s a message. From the use of native Hawaiian language to tribal customs and chants, the show pushes back against the erasure of indigenous identity in Hollywood.

This makes Chief of War more than entertainment. It’s cultural education.

7. A Different Kind of Hero’s Journey

Most shows give us a clean hero’s arc—good guy fights bad guy and wins. Not here. Ka‘iana’s journey is complex. He’s brave but flawed, powerful yet broken. He’s caught between two worlds: loyalty to his people and his own ambitions.

This kind of realism is rare in modern TV—and it’s what makes the show special.

Conclusion

Chief of War is not popcorn TV. It’s an intellectual, political, and emotional journey told through the lens of indigenous history. Jason Momoa has delivered something deeply personal and culturally significant.

While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, it’s undeniably bold—and necessary.

FAQs

Q1: Does Chief of War reflect real historical events?
The series draws from real Hawaiian history, particularly inspired by Ka‘iana—a historical chief who played a pivotal role during the era of Hawaii’s unification in the late 18th century.

Q2: Where can I watch Chief of War?
The show is available exclusively on Apple TV+.

Q3: How many episodes are there?
There are eight episodes in total.

Q4: Is the show historically accurate?
While dramatized, the series is grounded in well-documented events from Hawaii’s late 18th-century history.

Q5: Is Chief of War suitable for kids?
It contains mature themes like war and colonization, so it’s best for teens and adults.

Neutral Opinion (In-Depth)

Mathematically speaking, Chief of War operates on multiple narrative vectors: one of resistance, one of cultural reawakening, and one of existential conflict. The pacing—though criticized—serves as a calculated choice to mirror real-world transformation, where ideological shifts happen not with a bang, but a slow burn.

From an intellectual standpoint, the series raises philosophical questions: What defines loyalty? Is rebellion a betrayal or a form of love? Is identity preserved through defiance or compromise?

This is not a show you binge for thrills. It’s a study of power, ancestry, and self-definition in the face of imperialism. For audiences willing to engage with layered storytelling, Chief of War is less about what happens, and more about what it means.