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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User Reviews

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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
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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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