Chief of War (2025) is one of the most anticipated historical drama series of the year, blending indigenous storytelling, epic warfare, and cultural resurgence. Co‑created by Jason Momoa and Thomas Paʻa Sibbett, and starring Jason Momoa himself, this Hawaiian‑language and English‑language series premiered on Apple TV+ on August 1, 2025.
Movie Overview
*Chief of War* is a nine‑episode historical drama that dramatizes the late‑18th‑century Wars of Hawaiian Unification through the eyes of Chief Kaʻiana, a high chief of Kauaʻi. The series diverges from standard cinematic narratives, opting instead to foreground Indigenous Hawaiian perspectives during a pivotal moment of internal conflict and looming Western influence. The first two episodes launched simultaneously on August 1, 2025, followed by weekly releases through September 19, 2025. Blending richly textured visuals, powerful performances, and meticulous cultural authenticity, *Chief of War* stands as a landmark in Native Hawaiian representation in mainstream streaming media.
Attribute Details
| Title | Chief of War |
|---|---|
| Genre | Historical Drama |
| Language | Hawaiian, English |
| Release Date | August 1, 2025 (first two episodes); weekly through September 19, 2025 |
| Creator(s) | Thomas Paʻa Sibbett & Jason Momoa |
| Director | Justin Chon (episodes 1–2), Anders Engström (select), Jason Momoa (season finale) |
| Writer(s) | Thomas Paʻa Sibbett & Jason Momoa |
Cast & Crew
Main cast:
- Jason Momoa as Kaʻiana
- Luciane Buchanan as Kaʻahumanu
- Te Ao o Hinepehinga as Kupuohi
- Te Kohe Tuhaka as Namakeʻ
- Brandon Finn as Prince Kūpule
- Siua Ikaleʻo as Nāhi
- Mainei Kinimaka as Heke
- Roimata Fox as Taula
- Keala Kahuanui‑Paleka as ʻŌpūnui
- Moses Goods as Moku
- James Udom as Tony
- Benjamin Hoetjes as John Young
Guest & recurring roles:
- Temuera Morrison as Chief Kahekili
- Cliff Curtis as Keōua
- Eroll Shand as Captain John Meares
Key crew & production team: Created by Thomas Paʻa Sibbett and Jason Momoa; executive produced by Momoa, Sibbett, Doug Jung (showrunner), Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Tracey Cook, Brian Andrew Mendoza, Francis Lawrence, Anders Engström, Jim Rowe and others. Directed by Justin Chon (episodes 1–2) and Anders Engström, with Jason Momoa directing the ninth and final episode. The music score was composed by Hans Zimmer and James Everingham. Produced by Fifth Season, Chernin Entertainment, On the Roam, Hard J Productions, with Apple TV+ as the platform. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Trivia
- A passion project years in the making: Co‑creator Thomas Paʻa Sibbett revealed that the concept began developing around 2015; the series emphasizes Indigenous agency in Hawaiian storytelling. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Cultural immersion & language revival: The series incorporates extensive Hawaiian language dialogue and features traditional chants, rituals, costume design, and weaponry, with guidance from cultural advisors to ensure authenticity. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Filming & location authenticity: Filmed in New Zealand to replicate pre‑contact Hawaiʻi, including recreations of war canoes and landscape elements using genuine materials and techniques. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Historical foundation: Based on the real events of the Hawaiian Unification Wars (1782–1810), but centers on Kaʻiana rather than Kamehameha for creative latitude and authenticity. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Critical acclaim & historic accuracy: Receives high ratings—92% on Rotten Tomatoes and generally favorable reviews on Metacritic. Celebrated as perhaps the most accurate Hawaiian television portrayal to date, reflecting meaningful cultural reawakening. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Premiere event rooted in culture: The red‑carpet premiere on July 18, 2025 in O‘ahu featured traditional Hawaiian ceremonies, music by Polynesian artists, hālau performances, and cuisine from renowned local chefs. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Momoa’s personal impact: Momoa described the project as deeply personal—a cultural homage comparable to *Braveheart* or *Dances with Wolves*, designed to inspire Indigenous youth and honor his heritage. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Luciane Buchanan’s transformational role: Buchanan immersed herself into the role of Kaʻahumanu through historical research, language learning, and visiting ancestral sites—calling it a breakthrough in Indigenous storytelling. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
IMDbPro
For in‑depth production insights, full episode credits, extended cast & crew listings, and industry contact information, see the *Chief of War* IMDbPro page. IMDb lists it as a 2025‑premiering historical drama limited series, currently airing, with expert-level details reserved for subscribers. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
About the Author
