These 9 scenes from Chief of War will make you wish you were born in that era

Apple TV’s newest series, Chief of War, starring Jason Momoa as warrior chief Kaʻiana, has all the elements to become the next big hit on the streaming platform. It tells the story of how Momoa’s Kaʻiana became the biggest threat to Kamehameha I when he rebelled against his plan to unify Hawaiʻi.

Set in the late 18th to early 19th century, Chief of War not only excels in the performances of the ensemble cast but also in the cinematography, offering a fresh and stunning look at Hawaiʻi. Depicting one of the most pivotal times for the Islands, the Apple TV historical drama will be remembered for the brilliantly showcased moments—whether it’s war, traditions, or the scenic beauty and adventures of the characters. It will definitely make you wish you were born into that era, and all of this is captured in just two episodes that have premiered.

Here are 9 moments from the Chief of War that will make you wish you were born in that era.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Reader's discretion is advised.

These nine scenes from the Chief of War will make you wish you were born in that era

9) Kaʻiana hunting sharks (Episode 1)

Jason Momoa in Chief of War | Image via YouTube/Apple TV

While not on the battleground, Kaʻiana, who no longer wishes to engage in any war-like situation—neither for himself nor the four kingdoms—lives a secluded and quiet life. However, he remains the most daring character introduced at the start of the series.

In episode 1 of Chief of War, we see Momoa’s character diving into the chaotic sea to hunt and successfully catch a large shark for his family. The scene is one of the most powerful, showcasing Kaʻiana’s strength, as well as a stunning shot that makes you want to be part of the exciting adventure alongside Momoa.

8) Kaʻiana acknowledges the sharks’ sacrifice (Episode 1)

Sharks are recognized as important creatures in Hawaiian culture, and the show successfully highlights their significance. After Kaʻiana returns with a large shark in the Chief of War Episode 1, the community prays and honors the shark’s sacrifice.

This moment also reveals Kaʻiana’s moral compass as he acknowledges the shark’s sacrifice, showing that he differs from other warriors because he is one of the few who do not want to take lives without reason. Considering the lives of all living beings, Kaʻiana sets the tone for the show, making it enticing to imagine being part of a rebellion sparked by his worldview.

7) Kaʻiana’s return to Maui (Episode 1)

In Chief of War, the series takes a crucial turn when Kaʻiana is indirectly threatened by King Kahekili’s men, who want to take him back to Maui to make him part of their arsenal again.

With the changes in Kaʻiana’s surroundings and people, we also get to see more of the kingdoms of Hawaii, in all their glory and beauty. While the decision isn’t one of Kaʻiana’s best, it remains one of the best in terms of cinematography, and it strives to bring you into that era.

6) Kaʻiana takes down Nui (Episode 1)

Scene from Chief of War | Image via YouTube/Apple TV

Having spent a significant amount of time living away from his kingdom, some might think that Kaʻiana has changed when it comes to strength, as he's no longer accustomed to being involved in wars and conflicts. Thai is tested in episode 1 of Chief of War, when a naive Maui warrior, Nui, tries to provoke Kaʻiana.

He is quickly subdued and cared for by Kaʻiana, who breaks Nui's arm with his sheer strength, making it look effortless. This demonstrates Kaʻiana's power and explains why he is crucial for the upcoming war planned by King Kahekili, making it another scene where viewers might wish to join Kaʻiana’s tribe.

5) The war-ritual (Episode 1)

The first episode of Chief of War might not have introduced all the key characters, but it definitely offered us captivating views of Hawaii's kingdoms and culture. One of the most fascinating scenes was the war-ritual where Kaʻiana and his family performed a ritual for the dead to rest in peace after returning to Maui.

This scene depicted the cultures of the tribes, giving us a glimpse into the traditions and way of life in the 18th century.

4) The invasion of O'ahu (Episode 1)

The ending of episode 1 of Chief of War can be seen as one of the best finales of first episodes. With all his faith in King Kahekili, Kaʻiana plans the invasion to minimize casualties. Still, not everything goes as planned when a brutal, war-like situation arises due to the King, resulting in many deaths.

The scenes captured in this moment are both terrifying and breathtaking, showing how brutal battles were during that era.

3) Introduction of Ka'ahumanu (Episode 2)

After the grand introduction of Kaʻiana in episode 1 of Chief of War, we meet another key character, Ka'ahumanu, played by Luciane Buchanan — a royal woman who has been kept hidden. With her introduction, we also follow Ka'ahumanu as she has lived a life in hiding from Kahekili and now wonders what her future holds.

After wandering for a while, she encounters Taula, who tells her about her importance in the future of Hawaii's kingdoms. The adventurous journey of Ka'ahumanu discovering her place in history is about to start, and we can’t help but want to be part of it.

2) Kaʻiana’s family is chased (Episode 2)

After the betrayal Kaʻiana experienced from Kahekili in Episode 1 of Chief of War, the outcast warrior wants to return to his homeland because he no longer wants to be part of further slaughter. He takes his family from O'ahu to Maui, and with his entire group united, he aims to escape from the land altogether.

However, Kahekili discovers his plans when he confronts him and later sends a large part of his army to hunt him down. The chase is so intense that it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as we root for Momoa’s character and his family to outsmart their pursuers, offering another thrilling moment filled with danger and excitement.

1) Kaʻiana meets Ka'ahumanu (Episode 2)

While escaping his pursuers, Ka‘iana gets injured and stumbles into a cave where Ka'ahumanu lives. They both start their journey to reunite with Ka‘iana’s family and escape Maui, but are spotted by a group of British explorers and Maui warriors.

Although episode 2 of Chief of War was packed with action, we still caught glimpses of the stunning scenery of the Islands, which might explain why explorers came there and also made us wish to live in that era.

The end of the episode also hints at Kaʻiana’s upcoming adventurous journey to distant lands and introduces the Britishers, who will definitely be involved in the upcoming war-like situations on the Islands.

What other scenes from the first two episodes of Chief of War made you wish to be born in that era? Do let us know in the comments below!