HISTORICAL: “Chief of War.” / “Jamestown.” Season 1.

“Chief of War” (Apple TV+) historical drama miniseries. Premise: Based on true events, the story begins at the end of the 18th century when the four major kingdoms of the Hawaiian Islands were in a state of war: Hawaiʻi, Maui, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi. The series follows Kaʻiana, a warrior chief (aliʻi) of Kauaʻi who travels outside the islands, returns home, and joins a bloody campaign until, at the last minute, he rebels against the unification of Hawaiʻi that took place from 1782 to 1810 under Kamehameha I. 

       Jason Momoa, series co-creator with Joseph Pa'a Sibbett, is Kaʻiana. The hunk gets to project his acting potentials here behind the obvious macho brawn. Jason can actually act.

        But the real attraction of this series is the material or how they recreated a significant chapter of Hawaiian history with commendable authenticity and brutal ferocity, backstopped by the enthralling panorama and idyllic allure of the Pacific islands. And yes the stunning final battle scene as a volcano unleashes its magnificent wrath!

       Zamboanga, the far south of the Philippine archipelago, was also depicted per historical accuracy. Meanwhile, Kaʻiana and Kamehameha were real people. As well as John Young who became a high-ranking military advisor to Kamehameha. He trained Kamehameha's warriors in the use of muskets and cannons. 🎥💻📽

“Jamestown” (Amazon Prime) Season 2. British historical drama. Set in 1619-1622, Jamestown follows the first English settlers as they establish a community in the New World. Among those landing onshore are a group of women destined to be married to the men of Jamestown. 

       Of course this is a series about women although some critics questioned the accuracy of the show's portrait of women. I do get the “woman power” advocacy but the characterization of the 15th century women here is a bit absurd, flimsy, and one-dimensional. No depth at all. 

       I don't know about the ensuing two seasons though. 🎥💻📽