There is a distinct allure of historical dramas and when it incorporates political intrigue, war, and cultural disparities, the whole series adds even more excitement. Marco Polo Season 1 is one of those shows that became a worldwide sensation through its release on Netflix. The series depicts the life of a traveler, Marco Polo from Europe, amid the Mongol Empire. The scope of this show is so immense and cinematic, that while watching it you feel as though you are part of a historical epic film.

Travel back to the 13th century in ‘Marco Polo’ Season 1. Follow the legendary explorer’s journey to the court of Kublai Khan, where he navigates a world of greed, betrayal, and sexual intrigue.

Directed by – John Fusco.

Genre – Historical drama, adventure, action.

Seasons – 2

Starring –

• Lorenzo Richelmy
• Benedict Wong
• Joan Chen
• Olivia Cheng

Release Date – 12 December 2014

Episodes – 10

Plot and Storyline

Set during the 13th century, the first season of the show tells the story of the Mongols at the height of their Empire. Marco Polo is a young merchant on a journey to the East with his father. Eventually, Polo ends up in the court of Kublai Khan and begins to stay after the circumstances give him no other choice. It is at this time that Polo becomes an eye-witness to, and participant in, the Mongols’ internal politics and power struggles.

While the narrative is of a traveler’s journey, the story expands beyond this to also tell the story of the expansion of an empire, betrayal, and cultural differences. Each successive episode builds on the previous, layering in factors of intrigue and loyalty with the empire. If it were to be seen in a manner akin to a Korean review series, the story is equally as compelling as Korean historical dramas like Empress Ki or Arthdal Chronicles. Each episode ends with a cliffhanger that pushes the viewer to continue watching.

Characters and Performances

The series strongest suit is the cast of intricate and multi-dimensional characters. Lorenzo Richelmy has made Marco Polo a likable and innocent traveler slowly becoming a self-aware, politically engaged, courageous character. His curiosity and expressions gave the character authenticity.

Benedict Wong is excellent as Kublai Khan, demonstrating the ruthlessness of an emperor and his emotional conflicts. As an emperor, he will stop at nothing for his empire, but as a father and husband, he is just like us, a vulnerable person.

Characters played by Claudia Kim, Olivia Cheng and Tom Wu add depth and give depth to their characters making the drama even fuller. Each character had their own story arc that deepened the narrative. I hope the depth of the characters and supporting cast in these dramas will see more depth in comparison to, say, Korean review series, because the depth of characters in dramas like these elevates the experience, just as in K-dramas’ deep supporting cast.

Thematic Elements and Symbolism

Another standout quality of this series is its strong thematic elements. The narrative centers not only on empire building and political machination as well as more personal questions of loyalty, identity, trust, and survival. The narrative repeatedly demonstrates how a person can truly degrade based on authority. It is as complex and profound as any Korean story, such as the betrayals and emotions highlighted in Korean series that emphasize family ties.

Visuals and Cinematography

Marco Polo Season 1 is a visual masterpiece. The stunning landscapes of Mongolia, deserts and palaces are presented so brilliantly you will feel like you are on an epic film set. The costumes and set design were so authentically done that it takes you back to the 13th century period.

The battle scenes and war sequences are top-notch both in the cinematography range. The choreography was so realistic you felt the intensity in each sequence. This area will resonate with fans of the Korean review series since the historical dramas from Korea are also globally known as incredible visual representations of historical events while maintaining realistic authenticity in the film medium.

Comparison with K-Dramas

When we compare Marco Polo to Korean historical dramas, one similarity is that both do grand storytelling about human emotions. Where there was grand world-building in the Arthdal Chronicles or in Kingdom, Marco Polo captures the vastness of the Mongol Empire. The only thing that is different about Marco Polo is that it is from a Western perspective, but it still has a depth and tone still common to K-Dramas.

If you enjoy Korean television series and want to watch a drama from the perspective of a Korean review series, I would recommend this show in a heartbeat.

The emotional heart of Season 1 is its greatest strength, alongside its grandeur, and world-building found in the visuals that compel the audience. For K-drama fans, it would be a very unique viewing experience and would transport the viewer into a fantastic chapter of world history and culture.

FAQ

Where can you watch the Korean Drama Marco Polo season 1?

Marco Polo Season 1 is now streaming on Netflix.