Apple TV Plus's new historical drama is the best show you're (probably) not watching — and it's 93% on Rotten Tomatoes

Jason Momoa looks over his shoulder in a scene from Apple TV Plus' "Chief of War" — (Image credit: Apple TV Plus)

I appreciate everyone's probably busy streaming the likes of "Wednesday" and "Alien: Earth" right now, but I have another show I want to shout about: Apple TV Plus' new epic historical drama, "Chief of War."

Pitched as a passion project for co-creators Thomas Pa'a Sibbett and Jason Momoa, the series is a dramatic look back at Hawaiian history, and has even invited comparisons to Hulu's own acclaimed epic, "Shogun."

What is 'Chief of War' about?

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"Chief of War" is based-on-true-events drama about the origins of Hawai'i and its people, one that recounts the unification and colonisation of the region at the turn of the 18th century.

The series follows warrior Ka'iana (Jason Momoa) as he sets out to unite his homeland in the midst of a fearsome power struggle that erupts between the four kingdoms.

The series is performed by a predominantly Polynesian cast, which, alongside Momoa, also features Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Cliff Curtis, Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale'o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka, Te Kohe Tuhaka, and Benjamin Hoetjes.

Why you should stream 'Chief of War' on Apple TV Plus

Jason Momoa and members of the "Chief of War" cast ready for battle in a scene from the Apple TV Plus Original — (Image credit: Apple TV Plus)

"Chief of War" is an impressively realized story that I have both been gripped by and that I've relished getting lost in. So far, it has proven to be a series with intrigue and serious forward momentum.

Easily the show's biggest boon is not its beautiful scenery or its drama, but Momoa himself. He is turning in what I think is his most impressive performance to date.

If you crave action, "Chief of War" is most definitely for you. It's brutal brawls and chases have been captivating showcases of both sheer brawn, but also of a steady hand behind the camera, thanks to both the physical prowess on display, and the cinematic staging the series boasts.

Easily the show's biggest boon is not its beautiful scenery or its drama, but Momoa himself. As the multi-hyphenate co-creator, exec producer, director, and star at the center of the show, he's more than successful. The show's assured, and he is turning in what I think is his most impressive performance to date.

I'm judging the series without seeing the entire season, but what I've seen of "Chief of War" so far has me impatiently waiting for Fridays to roll around just to see where we go next. It's immersive, gripping television.

Shirtless Jason Momoa stands in the open in a scene from Apple TV Plus' &quot;Chief of War&quot; — (Image credit: Apple TV Plus)

It's not just me who recommends "Chief of War," either: the series currently holds a 93% score on the review aggregator, Rotten Tomatoes, with a consensus that reads: "Starring Jason Momoa at his ferocious best, "Chief of War" is a brutal epic that recreates Native Hawaiian history with commendable authenticity."

In his 3-star review of the season, Empire critic David Opie conceded that the 'plotting somewhat meanders' and that the show 'feels admirable but with something still to prove,' but nevertheless praises the commitment to authenticity and the 'grandiose battles'.

Variety's Aramide Tinubu praises the show as "a majestic and immersive story about rebels, home and allegiance" and highlights the series' "highly textured" feel from the costumes and dialogue through to its visuals.

Bottom line: if you're looking to be swept up in a bold new drama, one that boasts compelling characters and truly thrilling combat, then you need to stream "Chief of War" on Apple TV Plus.

At the time of publication, four episodes are available, with the remaining five set to air on Fridays through to the series finale on September 19.

Already streaming "Chief of War," or looking to make the most of your Apple TV Plus subscription? Check out our guide to the best shows on Apple TV Plus for tons more streaming suggestions.

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Martin is a Streaming Writer at Tom’s Guide, covering all things movies and TV. If it’s in the theaters or available to stream somewhere, he’s probably watched it… especially if it has a dragon in it. Before joining the team, he was a Staff Writer at What To Watch where he wrote about a broad range of shows that stretched from "Doctor Who" and "The Witcher" to "Bridgerton" and "Love Island". When he’s not watching the next must-see movie or show, he’s probably still in front of a screen playing massive RPGs, reading, spending a fortune on TCGs, or watching the NFL.

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