Jason Momoa’s New AppleTV+ Series Is a Certified Hit With a Stellar Rotten Tomatoes Score
Jason Momoa’s new Apple TV+ series, Chief of War, has quickly caught attention since its premiere on August 1, 2025. This Hawaiian historical drama, created by Momoa and Thomas Paʻa Sibbett, tells a gripping story set in the late 18th century.
The series focuses on Kaʻiana, a warrior chief from Kauaʻi, who after traveling abroad returns home to join a violent campaign. But his loyalty is tested as he rebels against the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under Kamehameha I.
The show brings a fresh look to history, portraying a time when the islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi were at war. Jason Momoa stars as Kaʻiana and also serves as an executive producer.
The cast includes Luciane Buchanan, who plays Kaʻahumanu, alongside other talented actors like Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Te Kohe Tuhaka, and Temuera Morrison in a guest role. The story is told partly in Hawaiian and English, adding to its authenticity.
Critics have generally responded very well to the show. The show currently holds an 89% approval rate based on 28 critic reviews and a 76% approval rate when it comes to fan reviews.
Many praised its stunning visuals and natural lighting that highlight Hawaiian culture and traditions, such as detailed ceremonial tattooing. Momoa’s strong screen presence is also seen as a key part of the show’s success.
The action scenes are intense and brutal, which viewers find exciting and engaging. Beyond the fight scenes, the series raises important questions about monarchy, cultural identity, and how outside influences affected native Hawaiians during this turbulent period.
Momoa and Thomas Pa’a Sibbett have got something special on their hands. The promising first season has given them a perfect launching pad to further showcase the rich culture and powerful stories of native Hawaiians that have been waiting to be told.
Adam Davidson
The series’ impressively brutal action sequences are the fun stuff, but questions about the validity of a monarchy and the intrusions of the outside world on an insular culture are what stick with you.
Roxana Hadadi
Chief of War rumbles along for eight episodes as the kind of handsomely produced epic that you might remember fondly if you saw it when you were young enough.
Mike Hale
From a horrifying beach invasion to an unforgettable volcanic showdown, Chief of War delivers enough adrenaline-fueled fight scenes to make you feel like you can run through a wall or two.
Belen Edwards
Filmed with a nearly all-Polynesian cast and often told in the Hawaiian language, the series is transportive, immersive and enlightening – the prettiest and bloodiest history lesson you’ll get all year.
Kelly Lawler
However, not all feedback has been positive. Some reviewers feel that although the conflicts in the story are interesting, the series doesn’t explore them deeply enough. While the actors are praised for their performances, some viewers say the characters and plot don’t fully capture their attention, making it harder to stay invested in the show.
There are concerns that honoring history is important here, and while the creators clearly worked hard to be accurate, it might not be enough to keep everyone hooked.
Most of these conflicts are interesting on paper, and played by charismatic actors like Momoa, Morrison, and Curtis. But Chief of War has little to say about them beyond their basic setup.
Alan Sepinwall
Honoring history is crucial here, and Momoa and company evidently went all out to get it right and as accurate as possible. However, I fear it may not be enough if viewers can’t get captivated by the story and its characters to stick with the show…
Akos Peterbencze
Still, Chief of War shows promise as a unique and powerful series. Jason Momoa and Thomas Paʻa Sibbett have created a platform to share rich stories about native Hawaiian culture that haven’t often been seen on screen. With its mix of action, history, and culture, the show offers something new for viewers interested in historical dramas and Pacific Islander stories.
#ChiefOfWar — Series Premiere Now Streaming
— Apple TV (@AppleTV) August 1, 2025
Chief of War — Ke Kahe Nei pic.twitter.com/5bvFrS1oXw
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