“It was an opportunity for us to help others make those connections with our people, our culture and our way of life”: Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Luciane Buchanan, Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Temuera Morrison and Cliff Curtis on Chief of War

Chief of War dramatises the true historical events of Hawaii in the late 18^th century, pre-Western colonisation. This epic nine-part series is helmed by Jason Momoa, who both stars in and executive produces the episodes, which are almost entirely delivered in Ōlelo Hawaiʻi; their indigenous language.

With a cast that represents the Polynesian culture, authenticity is critical to the story as viewers are immersed in storytelling that shows the evolving shifts in power as the unification of the different islands begins, the traditions that become challenged as female voices gain agency and the violent battles that then shape the future of Hawaii.

The Upcoming had the pleasure of speaking to Te Ao o Hinepehinga and Luciane Buchanan about their perspectives on their roles and what it was like to work closely with Momoa, especially with intimate scenes that were carved out to tell the story.

Kaina Makua and Moses Goods spoke to us about coming on board to tell this important story and how they were chosen for their roles to ensure the authenticity of the show.

Finally, we chatted with Temuera Morrison and Cliff Curtis about the spectacular artwork, the stunning scenery and the importance of telling audiences about the historical background of the islands.

Ezelle Alblas

Chief of War is released on Apple TV+ on 1^st August 2025.

Watch the trailer for Chief of War here: