Marco Polo (2014)

:

Season 1
  • Network: Netflix
  • Series Premiere Date: Dec 12, 2014
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 499 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 411 out of 499
  2. Mixed: 31 out of 499
  3. Negative: 57 out of 499
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  1. jwai
    Dec 15, 2014
    9
    I'll say this: I'm very picky about the shows I invest my time in. This is one of those rare shows. There's just something about it. Maybe it's the lavish set pieces and costumes or its Eastern flavor or the sweeping landscape backdrops. Whatever it is, it got me watching and talking and telling my friends to give it try. Sure, it borrows liberally from Game of Thrones but I found theI'll say this: I'm very picky about the shows I invest my time in. This is one of those rare shows. There's just something about it. Maybe it's the lavish set pieces and costumes or its Eastern flavor or the sweeping landscape backdrops. Whatever it is, it got me watching and talking and telling my friends to give it try. Sure, it borrows liberally from Game of Thrones but I found the captivating beauty and sheer scale of this production far outweighs the occasional imitative annoyances. Seeing the workmanship in crafting this epic alone is worth the price of admission. So give it try. You won't be disappointed.… Expand
  2. FuriousNachos
    Dec 29, 2014
    9
    The first episode was rather crummy and the first few episodes had quite a few gratuitous sex scenes that had my eyes practically rolling out of my head, but boy did it get better. Excellent acting all around, beautiful music, expertly crafted combat scenes. I truly hope additional seasons are procured and the executives ignore the pompous "professional critics"
  3. hydrologi
    Dec 18, 2014
    9
    I disagree with the critics, and I hope other viewers ignore them. The show is thoroughly enjoyable. Just don't expect a show focusing on Marco Polo's adventures. This is about Kublai Khan, his court, and his rivalry with Jia Sidao.

    Landscapes are breathtaking, fight scenes are spectacular (particularly season finale). Marco isn't a main character that you would expect from this genre    I disagree with the critics, and I hope other viewers ignore them. The show is thoroughly enjoyable. Just don't expect a show focusing on Marco Polo's adventures. This is about Kublai Khan, his court, and his rivalry with Jia Sidao.

    Landscapes are breathtaking, fight scenes are spectacular (particularly season finale). Marco isn't a main character that you would expect from this genre (e.g. Tyrion, Spartacus, etc). He is just along for the ride and do what he's told. But the other characters, Kublai, Hundred Eyes, Lady Chabi etc. are interesting and played wonderfully. Can't wait for season 2. Hopefully the producers aren't discouraged by the wisearse critics and will keep making this wonderful show.    … Expand
  4. ralphrepo
    Dec 18, 2014
    9
    Compared to GOT in its entirety? No. But when stacked against just GOT season 1? Yes, it holds its own. Polo has a lot pulling for it too, given the semi-historical and non-fantasy setting. Also, it showcases the able language and acting ability of Asian talent in what is arguably a fully English speaking production, without subtitles nor stilted "Fu Manchu" accents. In essence, probablyCompared to GOT in its entirety? No. But when stacked against just GOT season 1? Yes, it holds its own. Polo has a lot pulling for it too, given the semi-historical and non-fantasy setting. Also, it showcases the able language and acting ability of Asian talent in what is arguably a fully English speaking production, without subtitles nor stilted "Fu Manchu" accents. In essence, probably the first western made epic in which the central Chinese figure isn't portrayed by a white actor dressed in Asian wardrobe. Nicely done!… Expand
  5. Bearslayer
    Dec 19, 2014
    9
    The only thing the critics are right about it that the main character is NOT Marco Polo. This is a beautiful series. Supreme quality and I have told all my friends that it is a series they should watch.
  6. Archit3ct
    Dec 19, 2014
    9
    Love this show... forget the so called professional critic reviews.
    This show has fantastic visuals and a great cast in Wong, Yune and Joan Chen!
    Netflix has given us something different and refreshing! Season 2 please!
  7. jacobtibbs
    Dec 21, 2014
    9
    I, too, had to create a profile just to defend this show. The critics seem to have written it off without giving it fair chance. Certainly, Marco is not the charismatic hero we might expect from a titular character, but I believe that is the point. His journey is becoming a better man by observing the actions of more dynamic, more interesting characters than himself.I think it's wise ofI, too, had to create a profile just to defend this show. The critics seem to have written it off without giving it fair chance. Certainly, Marco is not the charismatic hero we might expect from a titular character, but I believe that is the point. His journey is becoming a better man by observing the actions of more dynamic, more interesting characters than himself.I think it's wise of the showrunners to play him as intelligent but tragically naive. One might even consider that the attitude towards enlightenment Western thinking that show is taking. Kublai is one of the most interesting characters on TV. And I for one am really excited to see a show with this kind of budget with only one white dude in its troupe. As for the GoTcomparisons..both shows are palace dramas. Their similarities are the ones they share with every other show, movie, novel, etc.in their genre.… Expand
  8. Ogerbert
    Dec 22, 2014
    9
    Fewer orgies and I would have given the show a 10. I like the story, actors, cinematography, music...everything! A welcome surprise. Nice to see some interesting female characters as well on TV. Highly recommend to those that like a plot but can also suspend their disbelief at Marco Polo being a Kung Fu master.
  9. dianasaurus
    Dec 22, 2014
    9
    I am appalled by all the horrible reviews from the critics. As an Asian American woman who also loved Game of Thrones, I have to disagree with them. I am comforted that the user ratings serve the series justice.

    I started the show knowing nothing about it – I was unaware of what the critics have said thus far and watched it with an open mind. I loved it. The show was extremely    I am appalled by all the horrible reviews from the critics. As an Asian American woman who also loved Game of Thrones, I have to disagree with them. I am comforted that the user ratings serve the series justice.

    I started the show knowing nothing about it – I was unaware of what the critics have said thus far and watched it with an open mind. I loved it. The show was extremely captivating. I binge watched 4 episodes and wanted more but it was already 1am.

    I can’t help but think that the low reviews from critics are paid-off or just extremely biased. Either way, I urge everyone to just watch it for yourselves regardless of the reviews (both user and critics).

    I do not watch this show for historical accuracy. If I wanted that, I would watch a documentary… and critique it. I expect the shows I watch to entertain me, and this Marco Polo did. I can see how some people would find this series boring at first – like GoT, you are introduced to a lot of characters at first and some very complicated geopolitical warfare that guides the plot. What I look for most in a show is character development through conflict, I think this show does this well. I do have to agree, Marco Polo is not my favorite character and at times he is even forgotten. Kublai Khan’s character is extraordinary and shows a lot of depth. All characters in this show are driven by an underlying motive – some are not fully developed yet (I am only on episode 4), but I am eager to find out how they will continue to choose their own paths.

    As an Asian American, I would like to address the “oriental stereotypes” that critics keep calling to. I am typically very sensitive to these subjects and are wary of them when I watch Asian actors in western films. I did not have any issues with this during my viewing of Marco Polo (other than that they all speak with an accent, but then again so does Marco Polo because he is from Italy). I don’t doubt that kung fu and objectifying women were realities back in 12th century. For those to exist in this film makes sense to me. I feel that the creator is using these mediums to paint a true picture of what society was like in that time period. I say this because I have watched many Chinese movies in my lifetime (in Chinese), and the same themes exist there as well. Crouching Tigger Hidden Dragon was solely based on these concepts, yet it won many Academy Awards. Game of Thrones was fully explicit with their nudity, I didn’t see anyone complaining about objectifying women there (although, that is valid). Also, I do not think Marco Polo did any of this in a distasteful manner, I did not feel offended.

    In fact, I applaud the creators for casting such a diverse cast. This movie creates a new level of exposure to amazing acting done by Asian actors and other actors of color as well. These are actors from all over the world with different backgrounds and experiences, much like Khan’s empire. Finally, in 2014 do we have a diverse cast, if only this can be carried into films that are set in the modern day as well.

    If there were Chinese subtitles, I would recommend this to my parents as well.

    I hope for the best for this series. It would be discouraging and unjust for it to fail based on these critics reviews, I encourage everyone to watch for yourselves.    … Expand
  10. TrumanJames
    Dec 23, 2014
    9
    This show is much better than the critics state. Full of action, political intrigue and historical facts, it is fun to watch. Binge worthy. Comparing it to Game of Thrones is ridiculous. That is Fantasy while this is historical fiction.
  11. Ebag01
    Dec 24, 2014
    9
    The pilot seemed a little rushed, and I was lost at first... It kind of through me off then I watched the second episode and couldn't stop watching it. I think the show is great and dose a good job filling in my GoT void....cant wait for Season 2
  12. maenad
    Dec 27, 2014
    9
    Let me tell you something about Marco Polo; it is a great show, it might have some historical inaccuracies, but you're meant to watch an entertaining show, not a history lesson.. I rather enjoy a wonderful show with some inaccuracies than make it extremely boring. Okay, might not be the most wonderful thing in earth to have fake stuff in it, but if you're watching it to pass your easternLet me tell you something about Marco Polo; it is a great show, it might have some historical inaccuracies, but you're meant to watch an entertaining show, not a history lesson.. I rather enjoy a wonderful show with some inaccuracies than make it extremely boring. Okay, might not be the most wonderful thing in earth to have fake stuff in it, but if you're watching it to pass your eastern history final, the joke is on you.
    I've grown to love diverse casts, and this one is so unique, rare and different from what I'm used to it that I find it appealing and lovely.
    The visuals are gorgeous, that trapped me instantly. Feminine characters are amazing, colors are gorgeous as well as the music.
    I just truly hope we get more seasons, because I'm recommending this to everyone I know.    … Expand
  13. Synarus
    Dec 29, 2014
    9
    I tend to agree with reviewers and critics, but almost all of these reviews are off by a wide margin. This is not a show to be compared with Game of Thrones. This is a show to be compared with The Tudors or Reign. This is an excellent show, that highlights and fantasizes the mystic east, without the idealization and romance found in other lesser historical dramas.

    This is not an epic    I tend to agree with reviewers and critics, but almost all of these reviews are off by a wide margin. This is not a show to be compared with Game of Thrones. This is a show to be compared with The Tudors or Reign. This is an excellent show, that highlights and fantasizes the mystic east, without the idealization and romance found in other lesser historical dramas.

    This is not an epic fantasy and thus can not hope to provide the type of sweeping epic drama of that genre. This is a romp through time and history into a familiar landscape of our earth in a legendary age. No show before it has tried to conquer such breadth of vision, nor has come close to such an expansive empire. Each episode is a whirlwind of action and drama and character that few shows of the historical fiction genre can compete.

    I am both disturbed and bewildered by the negative reviews. This show is so great, and so unparalleled that not only did I make an account to write this review, but I felt a wave of deep sadness that these so called critics could be so wrong!    … Expand
  14. FilmBuff1
    Dec 29, 2014
    9
    Many so-called professional critics are nothing but self-absorbed, egocentric, narcissistic snobs who take perverse pleasure in reading their own reviews as if they were some intellectual achievement worth noting. The bottom line is that this series has an interesting plot loosely structured around a people and culture that Americans no little about; excellent acting; great costumes;Many so-called professional critics are nothing but self-absorbed, egocentric, narcissistic snobs who take perverse pleasure in reading their own reviews as if they were some intellectual achievement worth noting. The bottom line is that this series has an interesting plot loosely structured around a people and culture that Americans no little about; excellent acting; great costumes; beautiful cinematography and sets; interesting armor and weaponry; with political intrigue, sex, and all the other components that make for a very watchable series. The vast majority of "user" reviews are positive and, in the end, the views of the watching public are far more meaningful and important that the views of a few so-called "critics." I encourage you to watch and judge for yourself.… Expand
  15. sm0kie
    Jan 2, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great show! The critics are wrong about this one. Just look at the user reviews on Rotten Tomatoes and this site. The people love this show.

    The set design and costumes are impeccable. Just watch this show and look at the costumes, the city, the beautiful wood carvings, etc. Then go back and compare it to Game of Thrones season 1. It makes Game of Thrones look fake!

    You can tell that the writers did their history research. I know a good amount about the history of the Mongols and I appreciate how they include little extra history tidbits through dialogue. This show does embellish a lot though, to keep things interesting and appeal to the audience. I really wish they didn't have every asian know magically know kung fu.

    I also wish they had more full fledged battles instead of just skipping them through cuts. Come on, 90 million bucks and you can't show a full-on, messy battle? What a great opportunity to highlight the world conquering Mongol war tactics. No problem. It's only season 1, hopefully they'll include more next season.

    Spoilers:
    They really embellished a lot in the last few episodes and did a disservice to the Persian engineers. By this time, Trebuchets were already used Middle East for a long time, but they let Marco be the magical inventor?    … Expand
  16. twillsie
    Jan 2, 2015
    9
    I don't know why critics have panned this show. My wife and I enjoyed watching all 10 episodes of the first season. Contrary to what the critics said, we did not fall asleep to any of the episodes, in fact we had a hard time not binge watching the entire series in one night. The production value was phenomenal, the story telling was great, and the acting superb. Listen to the users,I don't know why critics have panned this show. My wife and I enjoyed watching all 10 episodes of the first season. Contrary to what the critics said, we did not fall asleep to any of the episodes, in fact we had a hard time not binge watching the entire series in one night. The production value was phenomenal, the story telling was great, and the acting superb. Listen to the users, because clearly the critics are drunk.… Expand
  17. unclebilly123
    Jan 3, 2015
    9
    The show is great, the first episode is so-so but it gets better later on. Personally I dont agree with the critics like most user reviews. The show offers some great combat and romance scenes. However some times the plot gets a bit dull. In general this show is pretty decent.
  18. Derder517
    Jan 20, 2015
    9
    This is a great show! I've been hooked since the first episode. I have watched the whole first season and can't wait for season two! I like all the characters and have many favorites.
  19. aarvizu
    Jan 22, 2015
    9
    I am hooked! I did have to watch the 1st episode twice to get straight who everyone was. But, now have watched 8 episodes and can't wait to watch the next episode tonite. I really don't understand why the critics did not give it higher reviews? I have recommended to many family members and friends.
  20. PainSt
    Jan 23, 2015
    9
    Highly recommended
    I finally watched this series over the past couple days after being initially discouraged by the critic reviews. It was well worth it. It turned out to be very engaging if at times somewhat predictable. The unfavorable comparisons with Games of Thrones are off the mark. Surely the similarities do exist with excellent settings, beautiful costumes and developed characters    Highly recommended
    I finally watched this series over the past couple days after being initially discouraged by the critic reviews. It was well worth it. It turned out to be very engaging if at times somewhat predictable. The unfavorable comparisons with Games of Thrones are off the mark. Surely the similarities do exist with excellent settings, beautiful costumes and developed characters but with none of the droning dialogue, mediocre acting and cluttered storylines that made GoT a cure for insomnia. Marco Polo does lack the shock value that makes GoT interesting but by sticking to the core story we get a focused effort that marches relentlessly towards its climax. Every scene is integral to the story. Every grunt is meaningful. Marco Polo is only one of many highly developed characters and my only complaint is that the series should have been named "Kublai Khan." He is the real star and central character, brilliantly rendered by first class acting. The first season does not end on a cliff hanger so give it a go. Its worth it.    … Expand
  21. kyberus
    Jan 26, 2015
    9
    An excellent show, with beautifully designed visual materials. The portrayal of the Mongol and Chinese empires, both at peace and at war is a rare enough delight to merit watching the program on its own. Though some licence is taken with the historical materials, the complex culture and politics of the Khanate of Kublai is well realized. Finally, the cast starts quietly, but overall thereAn excellent show, with beautifully designed visual materials. The portrayal of the Mongol and Chinese empires, both at peace and at war is a rare enough delight to merit watching the program on its own. Though some licence is taken with the historical materials, the complex culture and politics of the Khanate of Kublai is well realized. Finally, the cast starts quietly, but overall there are a host of interesting and well developed characters. Marco himself is a relatively quiet character, but he provides a good framing device to highlight a variety of multifaceted characters and talented actors.

    I find the initial episode started somewhat slowly, but not unpleasantly so, and the pacing picks up over the following episodes. Given that most viewers are probably not familiar with the Mongol empire, I think this is a wise decision.

    Overall, Marco Polo is well worth watching, and at least on par with the history channel's "Vikings" series. I find it difficult to reconcile my own assessment with the critical reviews of Marco Polo. I have never been struck by this strong a contrast, I wonder if they might have been watching another program.    … Expand
  22. Kinghenry8
    Feb 26, 2016
    9
    Very good show, it reminds me a lot of Game Of Thrones except without the magic and dragons. Nonetheless, I recommend watching it for the martial arts and the cinematography.
  23. Jackelfo
    Feb 8, 2016
    9
    I absolutely loved the show and sometimes wonder if the critics have been watching the same show that I have binge watched for the last 3 days. The scenes and the colours are so vivid, it kind of transported me back to Kublai Khan's era and ancient Mongolia. The pace is just right if you want to learn about a culture most are not familiar with in order to accompany the story that picks upI absolutely loved the show and sometimes wonder if the critics have been watching the same show that I have binge watched for the last 3 days. The scenes and the colours are so vivid, it kind of transported me back to Kublai Khan's era and ancient Mongolia. The pace is just right if you want to learn about a culture most are not familiar with in order to accompany the story that picks up quite soon. All characters are likeable in their own way. I thought Lorenzo Richelmy's Marco Polo was a bit dull to start with, but I am getting used to him, and now that I learned he was thought English for the show only, it kind of makes more sense that he became more believable towards the middle of the season, but whatever Marco Polo lacks in English skills, all the other actors compensate in amazing performances, the cinematography is perfect, the characters are deep and their story gets you completely involved.
    Needless to say, I am hooked.    … Expand
  24. Seffer
    Jul 25, 2016
    9
    This show has its ups and downs, and I'll admit it's not for everybody. But if you like martial arts movies and historical drama, you should watch this. I've watched kung fu movies my whole life, and I think that some of the fights in this series compare very well with the best fights in the movies. The character Hundred Eyes is the best, and fights beautifully. There's another martialThis show has its ups and downs, and I'll admit it's not for everybody. But if you like martial arts movies and historical drama, you should watch this. I've watched kung fu movies my whole life, and I think that some of the fights in this series compare very well with the best fights in the movies. The character Hundred Eyes is the best, and fights beautifully. There's another martial arts TV show, Into the Badlands, that's even more directly martial-arts themed, yet has much worse fights.

    Other points: The sets are incredible, and obviously expensive. I'm no Mongol expert, but I have a better than average knowledge of world history and military history, and I think the series as a whole has a good, historical feel. Sometimes the show can drag, and you're more or less waiting for something to happen. Other times a scene is so cool that I watch it again immediately.    … Expand
  25. MetaBoBB
    Apr 16, 2019
    9
    Good fights, good acting and it looks great. This show is so underrated and deserved better. Desperately needs a season 3.
  26. R7critical
    Dec 23, 2014
    8
    I binge watched the whole first season tonight, so I'm about 10x more suited to give a review on this show compared to the "professional" critics who only watched the pilot, which yeah, was kind of a boring stage-setting episode.

    Once it gets going though the courtly intrigue, scheming, and martial arts are pretty great. In my opinion the only real downsides are some really obvious last    I binge watched the whole first season tonight, so I'm about 10x more suited to give a review on this show compared to the "professional" critics who only watched the pilot, which yeah, was kind of a boring stage-setting episode.

    Once it gets going though the courtly intrigue, scheming, and martial arts are pretty great. In my opinion the only real downsides are some really obvious last gen CG effects, and Marco being written a little too "I'm the hero"-ey.

    It's worth giving it a few episodes to see if you like it.    … Expand
  27. jgzeger
    Dec 25, 2014
    8
    Numerous critics have panned this show calling it inferior to Game of Thrones. No, it isn't Game of Thrones, but that is an unfair standard to which to hold it. It is, however, very watchable and better than 90% of the crud on TV. The cinematography is spectacular and some of the best I have ever seen for a made for TV production and the story line is interesting. If I were to criticizeNumerous critics have panned this show calling it inferior to Game of Thrones. No, it isn't Game of Thrones, but that is an unfair standard to which to hold it. It is, however, very watchable and better than 90% of the crud on TV. The cinematography is spectacular and some of the best I have ever seen for a made for TV production and the story line is interesting. If I were to criticize any aspect, it would be the hokey martial arts scenes. At times I feel like I'm watching a Bruce Lee movie.… Expand
  28. ImSedated
    Dec 15, 2014
    8
    At first, I thought the show to be cheesy with the accents and lack there of. Maybe if it were in English subtitles, I would give it a 9 or 10. However, by the third episode I was hooked and watched the show from beginning to end. What annoyed me in the beginning quickly faded.

    The show had many plots, intriguing side stories and from a chick's perspective, good fighting scenes.    At first, I thought the show to be cheesy with the accents and lack there of. Maybe if it were in English subtitles, I would give it a 9 or 10. However, by the third episode I was hooked and watched the show from beginning to end. What annoyed me in the beginning quickly faded.

    The show had many plots, intriguing side stories and from a chick's perspective, good fighting scenes.
    I'm not sure what the "critics" are watching but it's not the new Netflix Original Marco Polo.    … Expand
  29. TheWaffle
    Mar 20, 2015
    8
    It's clear that the professional critics simply can't handle something that doesn't fit the usual mold. The show is very well cast and filmed with an eye for history, and for once we have a production that casts actors in keeping with their actual heritage instead of a white washed history in British accents (::cough:: Da Vinci's Demons and Prince of Persia ::cough::). This is Game ofIt's clear that the professional critics simply can't handle something that doesn't fit the usual mold. The show is very well cast and filmed with an eye for history, and for once we have a production that casts actors in keeping with their actual heritage instead of a white washed history in British accents (::cough:: Da Vinci's Demons and Prince of Persia ::cough::). This is Game of Thrones in the far east, except that many of the show's events are real. There are certainly a lot of borrowed tropes and a bit of fantastical kung fu, but it also often refuses to take the easy road. The protagonists are both brutal and empathetic, and the conflicts between characters are very believable. The primary villain is a bit too dastardly in my mind, especially since he's fighting against a Mongol invasion. But the show is very good and is easy to watch.… Expand
  30. PoeticDumpling
    Dec 16, 2014
    8
    I am voting based on only two episodes thus far, but I am flabberghasted to see such low reviews from critics. This show is fantastic and thrilling! The acting isn't out of this world, but it isn't by any means bad either. The culture is fresh, the scale is sweeping, the action adventure is cranked up. I have no complaints thus far. Perhaps I will add an upadated review after furtherI am voting based on only two episodes thus far, but I am flabberghasted to see such low reviews from critics. This show is fantastic and thrilling! The acting isn't out of this world, but it isn't by any means bad either. The culture is fresh, the scale is sweeping, the action adventure is cranked up. I have no complaints thus far. Perhaps I will add an upadated review after further episodes or season 1 completion.… Expand
  31. Burnside88
    Dec 19, 2014
    8
    I cannot believe the negative reviews this is receiving from "critics". Some complain about the acting and others all of a sudden think themselves historians but most both. I do not claim to be a historian, and maybe that is why I take no issue with the creative liberty. The critics complain about how boring the show is in one sentence, and then bash it for having "too much kung fu andI cannot believe the negative reviews this is receiving from "critics". Some complain about the acting and others all of a sudden think themselves historians but most both. I do not claim to be a historian, and maybe that is why I take no issue with the creative liberty. The critics complain about how boring the show is in one sentence, and then bash it for having "too much kung fu and sex" in another. Meanwhile if it followed the true story of Marco Polo it would not be much of a show in any case.

    Is this show perfect? No. Is it worth watching? Hell yes. I am utterly disappointed in the "official" reception this show has gotten. Do yourselves a favour critics and let the people be the judge of Netflix's series. A user score of 8.3 is much more accurate than the 48 of so called professionals. You should stick to sitcom reviews and eat it while you're at it.    … Expand
  32. jaykota123
    Dec 12, 2014
    8
    The first episode is surprisingly good and far better than the reviews let out. It may not match Game of Thrones but then they don't explicitly say they are aiming for that level- only the media seems to make that comparison.

    Frankly I found it interesting and something I am willing to watch through the 10 episodes- unless the quality tanks. That said- it may also be due to a lack    The first episode is surprisingly good and far better than the reviews let out. It may not match Game of Thrones but then they don't explicitly say they are aiming for that level- only the media seems to make that comparison.

    Frankly I found it interesting and something I am willing to watch through the 10 episodes- unless the quality tanks.

    That said- it may also be due to a lack of anything good out there right now besides homeland and walking dead.    … Expand
  33. baford
    Dec 15, 2014
    8
    Marco Polo accomplished what it set out to do: entertain me as a viewer. The show is historically inaccurate, but then again I don't expect most modern day shows to serve as a history lesson. I enjoyed the show from the first episode, and I was pleased that the show continually improved throughout the season. I notice that a lot of critics are giving this show low ratings and there seemsMarco Polo accomplished what it set out to do: entertain me as a viewer. The show is historically inaccurate, but then again I don't expect most modern day shows to serve as a history lesson. I enjoyed the show from the first episode, and I was pleased that the show continually improved throughout the season. I notice that a lot of critics are giving this show low ratings and there seems to be a cliche of Game of Thrones comparisons. I can kinda see the point they are making: Both shows are on a high budget, 10 episodes long, extremely violent, contain shady politics and sex, and filmed at exotic locations. Is that really "new" though? Take the show for what it is; an entertaining series that is historically inaccurate yet still catches the essence of the time period with mild cultural insight (albeit a bit cliche). I found the series to be interesting from the first episode and enjoyed the season as it gradually improved with each episode. I hope the show gets a second season, and look forward to continuing Netflix's fictional account of Marco Polo.… Expand
  34. rwieland
    Dec 15, 2014
    8
    The comparison to GOT is misleading. It's an epic historical drama like HBO's Rome. And I think what the critics mean when they say there's no characters to care about is that there aren't enough white people in it. It's beautiful and entertaining and the only way you could be bored by it is if you are too small minded to appreciate what it offers. I think non-American critics will reviewThe comparison to GOT is misleading. It's an epic historical drama like HBO's Rome. And I think what the critics mean when they say there's no characters to care about is that there aren't enough white people in it. It's beautiful and entertaining and the only way you could be bored by it is if you are too small minded to appreciate what it offers. I think non-American critics will review this much more favourably. It's the best thing on Netflix right now in my opinion.… Expand
  35. jameshca
    Dec 20, 2014
    8
    Great cinematic, but too much of sex.

    Very different from what I expected. I was expecting a depiction of Mongol/Orient society during the reign of khanate (customs, politics, military cultures and etc. ), which the show delivered - the trebuchet is awesome, but the kung fu part is too hard to stomach. A Kung Fu Master Marco Polo? come on... Why critics gave the show such a low    Great cinematic, but too much of sex.

    Very different from what I expected.
    I was expecting a depiction of Mongol/Orient society during the reign of khanate (customs, politics, military cultures and etc. ), which the show delivered - the trebuchet is awesome, but the kung fu part is too hard to stomach. A Kung Fu Master Marco Polo? come on...

    Why critics gave the show such a low score? Are we going to have season 2?    … Expand
  36. Pier
    Jan 1, 2015
    7
    Why did critics pan this show? The writing and acting may not be as good as Games of Thrones but are way above average. Cinematography and production design are exceptional. A great historical show with a slow plot targeted at mature audiences. Let's hope Netflix renews for a second season.
  37. KMV
    Dec 14, 2014
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think some critics are taking this show a bit too seriously. I too would have liked it to be a bit more feasible, and less exploitive of women (not sure the nude harem scene was entirely necessary to the plot). But its got a lot going for it. Basically, you have to accept that this is like a less sophisticated "Game of Thrones" - great cinematography, less characters (and truthfully, less character development), but a lot of the same sword and schemes excitement. There are characters and plot lines I did care about, some great bad guys, and a moment of sacrifice I really did find believable and touching.

    And its good points are good enough, that its plot holes and melodrama become kind of a fun game, questions you can save up (Minor SPOILER ALERT): like, why is a 100 pound courtesan able to fight like a character from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon"? Are we really supposed to believe that the best swordsman in the Mongol lands is completely blind? If you're going to send a spy into an enemy Chinese city, wouldn't you pick someone who wouldn't draw attention, rather than the only European they're likely to have ever seen?

    Marco Polo isn't 'must-see' TV. But if you're looking for something fun and exciting in this genre, it should make for a fun evening.    … Expand
  38. DrHutch
    Dec 14, 2014
    7
    Setting aside the terrible historical inaccuracies (of which there are many) and the troubling stereotypes that crop up about Chinese and Mongolian culture, the show as a work of fiction is on par with the quality of Game of Thrones. While it does not have the same epic sweep, its a ability to move between locations on the social hierarchy and its avoidance of sexposition in favour ofSetting aside the terrible historical inaccuracies (of which there are many) and the troubling stereotypes that crop up about Chinese and Mongolian culture, the show as a work of fiction is on par with the quality of Game of Thrones. While it does not have the same epic sweep, its a ability to move between locations on the social hierarchy and its avoidance of sexposition in favour of exploring sensuality as a system of power and authority make it in some ways superior to its HBO cousin. Yet, the dialogue is, as many critics have pointed out, weak. At times, too, the motivations of characters, especially villainous ones, are too one-dimensional to be believable. Is this the greatest show on television? No. Nor is it the weakest among the growing number of epics.… Expand
  39. LucaCritics
    Mar 28, 2020
    7
    Marco Polo (2014) Season 1 Review: 7/10
    Very nice and enjoyable show. Great plot and stunning visuals.
  40. Mazmorrero47
    Dec 15, 2014
    5
    Netflix's 90 million dollar collaboration with The Weinstein Company is a mixed bag. Its technical aspects are beautifully crafted. The cinematography in particular has some creative uses of high contrast illumination. The armors, weapons, sets, etc. have a lot of attention to detail.
    Unfortunately, Marco Polo lacks compelling characters and story that encourage binge-watching (the    Netflix's 90 million dollar collaboration with The Weinstein Company is a mixed bag. Its technical aspects are beautifully crafted. The cinematography in particular has some creative uses of high contrast illumination. The armors, weapons, sets, etc. have a lot of attention to detail.
    Unfortunately, Marco Polo lacks compelling characters and story that encourage binge-watching (the sluggish pacing and stilted dialog don't help much to the cause either). For starters, its title is misleading, since Marco Polo is NOT the protagonist. In fact, the scenes where he appears are the most boring. The actor who plays him doesn't have any charisma or range, so it's hard to understand why the Khan is so mesmerized with his descriptions and several women feel sexually attracted to him. In all fairness though, the rest of the characters aren't any better because they all have one single trait: Hundred Eyes-disciplined, Jingim-jealous, Sidao-evil, etc. which makes them more caricatures than fleshed-out human beings. Their motivations are simplistic at best and nonsensical at worst.
    And of course, what would a period show be without the gratuitous nudity? Marco Polo gives Game of Thrones a run for its money in that regard. Even the female characters that are supposed to be "strong" and "independent" end up being objectified. Netflix is trying too hard.
    Marco Polo came out with great timing, since it fills the hole left by the TV holiday hiatus. In any other time of the year, there are much better options to check.    … Expand
  41. thehawk
    Dec 14, 2014
    5
    I should have known what to expect when I noticed that Marco on the promo poster looked too much like Tyrion Lannister. So when the regulation sex scenes duly appeared I thought this will be Game Of Chinese Thrones. No such luck.

    As one critic wrote the first episode was poor, imo due to some very bland dialogue and acting. Sound was poor and there were a few meaningless scenes.    I should have known what to expect when I noticed that Marco on the promo poster looked too much like Tyrion Lannister. So when the regulation sex scenes duly appeared I thought this will be Game Of Chinese Thrones. No such luck.

    As one critic wrote the first episode was poor, imo due to some very bland dialogue and acting. Sound was poor and there were a few meaningless scenes. Episode 2 improved a bit. Modern accents and some modern idioms crept in every so often which was jarring.
    The historical representation was bad. Cities hundreds of miles apart were just down the road. The Golden Horde lived in a few tents. Their horses, in reality able to run for a day without stopping, could not cross a small desert without grain. Water off a duck's back for Mongol horsemen. And would they have cared if half died in the journey? - not a chance.

    As with a lot of these films and series, a good chance lost to use historical re-enactors to increase immersion.

    OK, enough complaining about poor production quality. The real problem is lack of an exciting plot. There is no character build-up. All the characters are shallow, even Marco. And even the gimmicks were weak - with one exception - Tom Wu who was VG as Hundred Eyes.    … Expand
  42. robreefer
    Dec 13, 2014
    5
    A fairly mediocre show.

    The acting isn't that great but production value is obviously through the roof. The thick accents are very annoying. You may need to turn on the subtitles or really blast the audio. Also, I hate to sound racist but it is VERY hard to tell the characters apart as most of them are Asian and look alike. The story line is a bit hard to follow. It sort of just    A fairly mediocre show.

    The acting isn't that great but production value is obviously through the roof. The thick accents are very annoying. You may need to turn on the subtitles or really blast the audio. Also, I hate to sound racist but it is VERY hard to tell the characters apart as most of them are Asian and look alike.

    The story line is a bit hard to follow. It sort of just bounces around and in no discernible direction. Some of the nude scenes are a little lowbrow and seem a bit forced merely for shock value or added male interest.

    Overall I would suggest it to others considering there is literally NOTHING else to watch at the moment while all the good television is on hiatus.    … Expand
  43. DWGriffith
    Dec 27, 2014
    5
    Cinematography: Gorgeous. Acting: Meh for the Anglos, Not bad for the orientals. Chin Han and Benedict Wong are great, Joan Chen is very very good. Visually stunning in parts, the dialog sounds as if it were written by someone who's only exposure to Chinese is dubbed English from 1970s Kung-Fu movies. It's really horrible. Turn on subtitles to really SEE how bad it is. The series bogsCinematography: Gorgeous. Acting: Meh for the Anglos, Not bad for the orientals. Chin Han and Benedict Wong are great, Joan Chen is very very good. Visually stunning in parts, the dialog sounds as if it were written by someone who's only exposure to Chinese is dubbed English from 1970s Kung-Fu movies. It's really horrible. Turn on subtitles to really SEE how bad it is. The series bogs down when Polo is on screen, but the other characters carry it as best they can. Too many incorrect geographic and cultural references, I can not believe the show creator spent years researching Mongolian history. From what, a Catholic Church guide to the Devils Army?… Expand
  44. ponderflix
    Jan 29, 2015
    5
    I report to you two episodes in to this Weinstein Company, Netflix Original. I had been pulled in by my slightly morbid fascination with the Mongol Empire and the chance to see Benedict Wong, the ultra-gentle ping-pong wizard ‘Errol’ in Sean Lock’s brilliant Fifteen Stories High, as megalomaniac warlord Kublai Kahn, grandson of Genghis. How on earth could Errol be Kublai? How could thoseI report to you two episodes in to this Weinstein Company, Netflix Original. I had been pulled in by my slightly morbid fascination with the Mongol Empire and the chance to see Benedict Wong, the ultra-gentle ping-pong wizard ‘Errol’ in Sean Lock’s brilliant Fifteen Stories High, as megalomaniac warlord Kublai Kahn, grandson of Genghis. How on earth could Errol be Kublai? How could those two things be possible?

    It begins with the Polo entourage adventuring through a village in the aftermath of an invasion. Everyone is either charred or impaled and there’s a general air of misery and terror...As the Polos inspect the ruins they are ambushed, taken prisoner and delivered to the court of The Great Khan. Here we see Benedict Wong as Kublai for the first time. In vast contrast to his grandfather Genghis, Kublai was born into wealth and power and, just like all people who are born into privilege, he dresses like a magnificent buffoon (see Gaddafi’s sons or Gogglebox’s Dom Parker). The Polos are stood before him, waiting for him to speak. But Benedict Wong does not speak. Instead, when he finally opens his mouth, we realise he has been dubbed by Al Pacino, asked to give an Eastern twang to his Tony Montana. It sounds as brilliant as it is ridiculous and with that accent, a few minutes in, the viewer learns: this show is gonna be stupid. No lessons shall be learned, there shall be no great satire here. But it might be fun.

    And so the vapid Marco joins Kublai and onward we go into this confused mesh of show as it intertwines the cinematic traditions of the East and West into a bastardisation of culture and history that would make George R. Martin say, ‘Woah there’. Along with Tony Montana as Kublai and the lazy intercultural love story...It feels like it’s all been done before, just in a different accent. The production values are as strong as you would expect from the Weinsteins, Wong is highly enjoyable as Kublai and there’s a pace to the narrative that gives you little time to be concerned with how naff the content is, but it’s a big disappointment.

    Full review at ponderflix on wordpress.    … Expand
  45. Kryndude
    Mar 20, 2015
    5
    Anyone who expected a historic drama know this; Marco Polo is a fantasy show taking place in an imaginary world based on the stereotypical (and mostly inaccruate) view of Asia. BS everywhere. Those who have the slightest clue of Asian culture and history would find this seires unbearably clumsy. Aside from that, the show itself is okay.
  46. Bo33y
    Jan 2, 2015
    4
    King Henry the eighth I am I am.......

    Problem is the model is entirely wrong, Western, inaccurate to certain extent. After hearing of this New Series, I was too happy to be revisiting childhood memories of that amazing previous TV series Marco Polo. Upon suffering this opening prologue to then be transported back to Venice, I turned off. Although I was told it gets better. Not at all.    King Henry the eighth I am I am.......

    Problem is the model is entirely wrong, Western, inaccurate to certain extent. After hearing of this New Series, I was too happy to be revisiting childhood memories of that amazing previous TV series Marco Polo. Upon suffering this opening prologue to then be transported back to Venice, I turned off. Although I was told it gets better. Not at all. Surely, there are many plots within plots. To be taken with a pinch of salt when flinching mostly at what has been displayed

    Castings, and structure, have been made for mass appeal. Rather then totally fitting into the realms of historic, or indeed accurately correct. This series seemingly gleaning from the GOT genre the ogling of excessive mass nudity, happening almost every 5 minutes. Rather then the finer art of sets and location.

    Disappointed with this attempted. Surely it has a market for rewriting history into some kind of new world order, or whatever wants to be achieved from this. I have absolutely no idea at all?    … Expand
  47. snackbob
    Dec 20, 2014
    4
    Starting with the positive, the landscapes and costumes are fantastic, however i feel this has been desecrated with (from the majority) bad acting, and lack of action. There for the most part are monotonous politics scenes, perfect for anyone wishing to commit suicide through boredom. In series such as GOT, this is only good because the high acting quality. I must say on another note theStarting with the positive, the landscapes and costumes are fantastic, however i feel this has been desecrated with (from the majority) bad acting, and lack of action. There for the most part are monotonous politics scenes, perfect for anyone wishing to commit suicide through boredom. In series such as GOT, this is only good because the high acting quality. I must say on another note the acting from "creepy praying mantas loving uncle" is fantastic in both action and political scenes. He i feel made it, not marco polo, not the khan, and especially not the khans son. There is also a well choreographed fight scene at the end, (blind man also a good actor). There is just a lack of sincerity with most scenes; a false quality which can be felt with bad acting. Conclusion, better actors, more action.This series could have taken a page from the 'house of flying daggers': a fantastic Asian inspired film.… Expand
  48. Aillas
    Dec 20, 2014
    4
    Looks very pretty but getting through it was a slog. Didn't care about any of the characters. The plot was plodding at best. A big disappointment, I've come to expect so much better of Netflix.
  49. everythingafter
    Jan 31, 2015
    4
    By Episode Three, I found myself far more interested in following Benedict Wong as Kublai than Lorenzo Richelmy as Marco Polo, which probably isn't a good sign if the latter is supposed to be the central figure of the show. Richelmy's performance as Marco was flat, forgettable and uninspired. Even Chin Han was more compelling. By the time Marco started developing the obligatory loveBy Episode Three, I found myself far more interested in following Benedict Wong as Kublai than Lorenzo Richelmy as Marco Polo, which probably isn't a good sign if the latter is supposed to be the central figure of the show. Richelmy's performance as Marco was flat, forgettable and uninspired. Even Chin Han was more compelling. By the time Marco started developing the obligatory love interest that must carry otherwise mediocre scripts along, the boredom outweighed any interest in seeing more breathtaking views and fighting. Four out of 10 simply for Wong's work, the fight scenes and choreography.… Expand
  50. YorkMan
    Jul 13, 2016
    4
    Whenever you watch anything 'fantastical' on television, or in the cinema, you have to switch off the more rational part of your brain and just go with the notion that what you're witnessing falls into the scope of the show/film as it's set up and progresses.
    But therein lies the problem with Marco Polo, it's a television show about a recognised historical figure, one of actual    Whenever you watch anything 'fantastical' on television, or in the cinema, you have to switch off the more rational part of your brain and just go with the notion that what you're witnessing falls into the scope of the show/film as it's set up and progresses.
    But therein lies the problem with Marco Polo, it's a television show about a recognised historical figure, one of actual importance, but it is written and produced using only the slightest amount of known historical fact.
    What that means is we witness completely fictitious characters and events that have no basis in what actually did happen when this Portuguese trader ended up in Mongolia in the 13th Century, it's just turned into blatant 'popcorn' escapism, and it's frustrating.

    So, is there anything good about the programme?
    Well, the direction is good, the cinematography is nice, the set design is well done, as is the costume design. From a visual perspective, you are wowed by the effort put into the production.
    But that's really about it....

    What is bad then?
    I understand that the show is funded by Americans, for Americans... And we know the 'average' American is generally too stupid to understand the world extends beyond their own 50 States.... But having everyone speaking English destroys any sense of atmosphere. I don't understand why the people making the show would go to such great lengths to make things 'look' so good if, whenever someone starts speaking, they speak a language that they clearly shouldn't be.
    Add to that some dubious casting choices (why do 90% of the Mongolians look Chinese/Japanese?), some terrible action choreography (every action scene, on pretty much every scale, is shot in near darkness), and huge lulls in pacing.... And you get a show which is watchable, but only if you switch off your brain completely.

    Oh, and as pointed out earlier.... Don't go into this show thinking it's something you can use to really find things out about its particular era and 'real life' characters..... It's 99% fiction.    … Expand
  51. daTruth
    Dec 13, 2014
    3
    I get the feeling that most of the positive reviews are from people that haven't actually watched the show. The writing was atrocious and boring. That's fine if the action makes up for it, but it doesn't. There are only a handful of actions scenes throughout the 10 episodes and the rest of the show is just terrible dialog (like someone with no writing skills was simply dictating aI get the feeling that most of the positive reviews are from people that haven't actually watched the show. The writing was atrocious and boring. That's fine if the action makes up for it, but it doesn't. There are only a handful of actions scenes throughout the 10 episodes and the rest of the show is just terrible dialog (like someone with no writing skills was simply dictating a conversation). They spent 90 million on this thing and I honestly don't know where it wall went, but it certainly didn't go toward writing a decent manuscript.… Expand
  52. sundangkalis
    Dec 14, 2014
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This original Netflix series premiered on 12/12/14. I have since watched the first 4 episodes and will not watch it anymore. It basically is a combination of Game of Thrones, and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. It copies a lot of the graphic nudity and violence of GoT, but it doesn't provide the varied and diverse number of characters of that series nor does it develop many of its characters motives well like GoT did. It is only in some of the supporting roles that you see any interesting characters. Kublai Khan, played by Benedict Wong, and Chabi, Kublai's Empress, played by Joan Chen are very well played and deep. Olivia Cheng as consort, Meilin is also interesting. Sadly their talents are wated in this production by the boredom provided by the other actors. Lorenzo Richelmy, who plays the lead role, is flat and sleep inducing as the lead, Marco Polo. He tries to provide the naivety of youth in his role, without providing the same wonderment and curiosity that a role like that would require. Even the actors that play Marco's father and uncles seem unmotivated and uninteresting. Also, some of the non-Asian advisers of Kublai Khan, such as the Yusuf, played by Amir Waked are lifeless and two dimensional.

    The other thing horrible about this show is the fight choreography. In original Chinese martial arts movies, the moves and techniques are meant to be spectacular and impossible. The characters fly around, and attempt moves that a real person could not do. It is far removed from real life fighting. What makes the fighting in this series bad is they copy some of the elaborate, flowing movements of Chinese movies like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, but try too hard to tone it down and make it seem realistic. What eventually happens is the martial arts in this series is neither fantastic nor realistic, and is rather unimpressive when compared to the originals. If they wanted to make Kung Fu more direct and realistic they should have tried to imitate the choreography of Bruce Lee in his movies like Game of Death or Enter The Dragon, as Bruce Lee was trying to make Kung Fu more realistic and brutal in those movies. In copying the choreography of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon but trying to make it more graphic and raw, they eliminate everything that made the fighting in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon so spectacular and that was how unbelievable and fantastic it was.

    Overall I would not recommend this series. It is trying to be too many things at once and does not do any of them well.    … Expand
  53. PixelIntruder
    Dec 17, 2014
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It’s starts out amazingly well, at least it did for me. But by episode six or so you reach some absolute ridiculousness with a big “whodunit” where your seemingly smart protagonist goes around vulnerable and unreinforced asking potential guilty mastermind villains, “Hey, do you happen to the dangerous bad guy were looking for who’s trying to stay hidden, is very powerful, and possibly dislikes me? And if not could you give us directions to where we can find him? Please be truthful!!!”

    Then by that point the once quite large show of massive armies and wars between giant nation empires of legend becomes infuriatingly small and limiting. There is no interaction with “extra-level” peasants or army-folk or anybody, you start to just bounce between the same seven or so characters and a formula starts to stick out and poke you in the eye and you start to notice just how cheesy and B-movie the lines and dialogue actually are.

    Worse, with the great and terrible Kublai Khan character who’s keeping the entire show together, it unintentionally just becomes more and more apparent that the actor playing the character MUST BE in real life a quite jovial, comedically funny man, always laughing and telling a joke. And so the earlier well-crafted illusion of the larger than life, dangerous, unpredictable character slowly unravels (after already being gravely wounded in believability by a clumsy earlier physical confrontation with another character).

    Then the already goofy, cheesy, and cartoonish Kung Fu aspect of the show that has pulled you out of the good character drama from the start with a funny-looking blind Kung Fu master who spins around seemingly more than a man really needs to, causing loud whooshing sounds, grates on you worse and worse.

    And you can no longer forgive the show that the opposing force and power in this supposedly enormous scale opera for the great Mongolian Horde is confined to a unexplainably, scared, crabby old woman and a two-dimensional, run-of-the-mill, ever-so-flimsy, psychopathic bad guy that never has made any sense.

    And the biggest thing to bug the viewer’s mind is your lovable protagonist is an apparent, crazed, lady-stalker who becomes obsessed with a woman simply because she is the only woman on the continent to wear blue garments rather than drab, Mongolian-Horde-fashions, and likes to mysteriously ride out to the only tree that grows in all of Mongolia.

    And this unexplainable fascination continues on and on, made worse by the fact the show’s writers never give us a reason to like her. Not a one. They actually provide us with a separate female character who wrestles men that we love and would love for our protagonist to love but we’re stuck with some random girl who wears blue clothes and does nothing of note and who there is nothing remarkable about.

    Oh, and the continuous assault on the viewer with naked women and breasts gets ever so tedious. It’s hard to understand that the show writers don’t realize that most people have internet access and far more intimate stuff is a click away for most viewers. So enough is enough as it becomes very distracting at times from the plot, characters, and drama. (And not distracting in a “good way” even if you are a young heterosexual male viewer).

    So now at episode seven or eight with my protagonist having appeared to have “completely drank the Kublai Khan Kool-Aid” more completely than I find credible for the character and his arc at this point in the show, I think I have to pull the plug on Netflix’s Marco Polo.

    ADDITIONAL NOTE - The cinematography, musical score, the casting, the majority of the acting, and more is all very amazing. This is an incredible production in many, many ways. A lot of very talented people worked on this. It's just certain weaknesses in regards to certain aspects of the show drag it down, at least for this humble viewer.    … Expand
  54. Aturro
    Dec 24, 2014
    3
    Just boring. Always fell asleep while watching. Beautiful pictures but not story, no drama, no nothing.
    I am big fan of recent hbo and netflix tv series but this one is a waste of lots of money...too bad.
  55. aelredus
    Apr 28, 2015
    3
    I'm disappointed. Marco Polo wasn't a Marvel hero. He was a real man. I wanted a credibly historic serie here, not the Nth version of American ninja. Mongol girl fighters? Come on, that is the most ridiculous historic abuse ever seen.
  56. BernieMargolis
    Feb 13, 2017
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was very disappointed in this show. It started out well, and there were flashes of brilliance here and there, but the plot trudged along at a snail's pace. The show was padded with lots of gratuitous sex and violence that distracted from the plot. Honestly, if I wanted to watch porn, I would have just watched porn. I don't need to take a ten minute porn break from my historical drama every fifteen minutes. The sets are beautiful, and I have no fault with the acting, but the plot is simply sub par.

    Some have compared this show to A Game of Thrones, but the two are nothing alike. The sex and violence in A Game of Thrones are always in the context of the show's plot, and the situations are consistent with the participants' character. The most violent scenes are often the climax of an arc that was built up over several episodes. In Marco Polo, on the other hand, the sex and violence are so commonplace that they lose their impact. For example, there is a banquet that Marco Polo attends. Kublai Khan has instructed him to pay attention and report on what he sees. So what brilliant insights does he have? Well, he immediately gets into a wrestling match with a random girl for no apparent reason, and it quickly turns into sex for no apparent reason. Oh, and it later turns out that she's the clan chief's "virgin" daughter. Yeah, right. This is a thirteen year old boy's dream scenario, not the content of a coherent plot in a show for adults.

    There are plenty of women to be had, and the Khan has promised Marco free access to his harem if he can prove his trustworthiness. However, Marco instead fixates on the one royal hostage who has been declared off-limits. He spends 75% of his time on the show stalking her, and her supposed bodyguard seems to be 100% oblivious to Marco's activities. Most of the show's plot seems to focus on this ridiculous situation.

    I was able to endure four episodes of this nonsense before giving up. I was tempted to call it quits earlier, but every time I felt I had had enough the show would pull me back in with actual intrigue and beautiful sets. If only they had focused more on the geopolitical aspects and the relationship between Marco and the Khan, I think the show would have been pretty good, if not great. Unfortunately, I just couldn't spend any more time watching the story of a creepy stalker and his relationship with a temperamental psychopath who somehow refrains from killing him despite countless provocations.    … Expand
  57. kevlarcardhouse
    Jan 15, 2015
    2
    Unbelievably bad. It certainly looks like it was expensive to make, so it does look gorgeous, but other than that, there isn't a single positive thing to say about it. The acting is so wooden, even the actor playing Marco Polo fails to be convincing as someone anyone would follow. Although it's hard to tell how much the actors are at fault here. Between the clearly poor direction of scenesUnbelievably bad. It certainly looks like it was expensive to make, so it does look gorgeous, but other than that, there isn't a single positive thing to say about it. The acting is so wooden, even the actor playing Marco Polo fails to be convincing as someone anyone would follow. Although it's hard to tell how much the actors are at fault here. Between the clearly poor direction of scenes and the incredibly corny dialogue, they don't have much to work on. It didn't even have a "so bad it's good" quality, and I had to stop watching after episode 4.

    If anything, the critics were overly kind to this slop. Based on how many of these ridiculously positive user reviews start with "I made an account just to tell you the critics are wrong", I wouldn't be surprised if they were fake accounts made by the production company. Either that, or it's yet more evidence that the quality of television can be complete garbage but spend enough on special effects and the brainless masses won't care.    … Expand
  58. tastelessparrot
    Jan 9, 2015
    1
    This is an expensive-looking show, but that lavishness is wasted on a dull pilot. The show starts off with a bunch of people we know next to nothing about. We have no reason to care what happens to them, and the pilot does very little to endear them to the viewer. I don't have any interest in watching the remaining episodes.
  59. aviterra
    Dec 19, 2014
    0
    I can't stay awake watching a plot that goes nowhere and horrible acting. I.These Mongols look like they came out of a B-movie. Not even slightly fearsome.
  60. Readsalot
    Dec 13, 2014
    0
    I agree with the critics, the pilot was so terrible I probably won't watch the remaining episodes. I am so disappointed in Netflix. This kind of low brow fodder is what I expect from the Major Networks sans the nudity. These positive reviews from viewers are kind of frightening.
  61. bluetea
    Dec 5, 2015
    0
    This show makes me sick. It is just knockoff Game of Thrones, orientalism version. The tragedy is the show is not based on fantasy fiction. But you know nothing Jon Snow... This show is joke. I am so disappointed in Netflix.
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Most Discussed TV Season of 2014
32
#32 Most Shared TV Season of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
48

Mixed or average reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 21
  3. Negative: 7 out of 21
  1. New York Magazine (Vulture)
    Reviewed by: Margaret Lyons
    Dec 15, 2014
    30
    The show is vacant and uninspiring, so much so that I'd rather fill my imaginary home with ball utensils than watch Marco Polo.
    Read full review
  2. People Weekly
    Reviewed by: Tom Gliatto
    Dec 15, 2014
    70
    A fun, body-flinging, old-fashioned epic.... As Kublai Khan, British actor Benedict Wong gives an impressive performance, one of the best of the year: You absolutely believe his ruthlessness, his power and his calculating thoughtfulness. As Marco Polo, on the other hand, Italian actor Lorenzo Richelmy, who looks like a more lyrical Emile Hirsch, mostly has to be put up with.
    Read full review
  3. The Wrap
    Reviewed by: Mekeisha Madden Toby
    Dec 15, 2014
    70
    Ultimately, once viewers overcome the sluggish pace there’s something for everyone with Marco Polo. History lovers will enjoy Googling along with the series as historical names and battles are introduced while martial arts fans will appreciate the intricately choreographed fight scenes. Although the series isn’t as riveting as “Game of Thrones,” strong performances and impeccable visuals make it worthy of a watch on a slow and rainy afternoon.
    Read full review
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