Jason Momoa’s powerful performance in Chief of War proves 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 War offers an immersive and authentic portrait of the battles that shaped the 50th state in the U.S.
Chief of War’s greatest achievement is how absorbed it is in its rich history. Similar to Shōgun and even Netflix’s American Primeval, the use of extreme and traditional forms of violence is a harrowing and visceral portrayal of Hawaiian tribal culture. There’s history written into every aspect of Chief of War, which is evidence of how much Momoa, who also co-created the show, poured his heart into its execution.
At nine episodes, Chief of War has 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 as sharp or full-bodied as Shōgun season 1, Chief of War is 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 in Chief 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 in Chief of War also elevates the series, particularly Temuera 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 War is textured and fascinating enough to become a celebrated recurring series.
Other cinematic elements, especially the stunning cinematography and a thrilling Dune-esque score by Hans Zimmer, combine to make Chief of War a pristine snapshot of history. The historical significance of these true stories is felt in every frame of Chief of War, which is the Apple TV+ show’s best argument for having a legitimate answer to FX’s Shōgun.
With Shōgun season 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 War is textured and fascinating enough to become a celebrated recurring series.
Chief Of War Brings A Tragic Tale Of Imperialism & Colonization To Life
Not only is Chief of War stunning and immersive, but it also highlights the tragedy 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 War is not a perfect show and certainly has a couple of notable flaws. Its biggest one may be its volatile 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.
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The Untold Story of Ka’iana: Hawaii’s Legendary Warrior Brought to Life on Apple TV+
From sacred land to the small screen, Jason Momoa’s passion project Chief of War brings Hawaiian history to life like never before.
These slower elements are typically meant to draw acute attention to the cultural aspects and traditions that are seeped into Chief of War from 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 to Shōgun will likely be the biggest challenge that Chief of War will face in terms of critical and audience reception. Shōgun arguably has a better blend of fact and fiction and holds a higher entertainment value, whereas Chief of War creates such an authentic portrayal that may work against it as a TV show.
Chief of War is 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 War is ultimately a rewarding watch and one of the standouts of Momoa’s entire career.
Chief of War
7/10
- Release Date
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August 1, 2025
- Network
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Apple TV+
- Jason Momoa delivers one of the best performances of his career as both actor and creator
- Chief of War is rich with authentic Polynesian history and tradition
- The cinematography and music score are clear standouts
- Chief of War’s pace is its biggest issue and can dwell in between its more thrilling scenes
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