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. Wrz77
    Dec 12, 2014
    10
    Truly a superb show. The expensive production really shines in both CGI of structures, sets, costumes, sound, cinematography, and all other aspects that I could discern. There is a perfect balance of complex geopolitical scenes that highlight the culture and politics of the Mongols in the 13th century and also a tasteful amount of action.

    This is another diamond in the rough drama    Truly a superb show. The expensive production really shines in both CGI of structures, sets, costumes, sound, cinematography, and all other aspects that I could discern. There is a perfect balance of complex geopolitical scenes that highlight the culture and politics of the Mongols in the 13th century and also a tasteful amount of action.

    This is another diamond in the rough drama series that rewards paying attention and where one will pickup more detail on future re-watches. But also one can watch it casually and still understand the plot.
    Absolutely no characters seemed one dimensional and they all had colorful and dynamic backgrounds and interesting traits.
    Sex scenes are also tastefully done unlike many TV-MA shows where they seem like filler and run on for way too long.

    Cinematography: 5/5 - The colorful sets and outdoor scenes alike are breathtaking and really pull you in. I was fully absorbed within the first 10 minutes of watching.

    Acting: 4/5 - I found the acting on the level of Game of Thrones and other hit drama series.
    Plot: 5/5 - The most important aspect of any drama movie or TV series is the plot, in my opinion, and this does not disappoint. It goes into the complex geopolitics of the Mongols and explores it without dragging on, seeming like filler, or becoming boring.

    Picture Quality: 4/5 - I watched in Super HD on a 40" display and did not notice any macroblocking or other common artifacts associated with bitrate starvation.
    The only nitpick I have is the aspect ratio not being 16:9 as all other modern TV series are. However, the black bars are extremely minimal and nowhere near as big as movies often have so it was not distracting.

    Audio: 5/5 - I only have a 2.0 sound system so I listened to the Stereo mix which sounds very different than the Dolby DD+ 5.1 mix - on my 2.0 system the Stereo mix sounded like it was optimized specifically for 2.0 systems rather than a cheap downmix from 5.1.
    The musical score really adds to the tone and feel of the show and I find the quality of the compositions to rival John Williams or other big names in film.    … Expand
  2. 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
  3. 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!
  4. OldGitGuitar
    Dec 21, 2014
    10
    Great show, high quality drama. Great camera work, costumes and locations.
    Shows how far out of touch the professional critics are from the public.
    Most are sheep, most just like to be mean and probably get more readers with a negative page title.

    My brothers coming tonight I think I'll sacrifice a critic ...
  5. Troy_Tallent
    Dec 23, 2014
    10
    An epic adventure/intrigue tale, beautifully rich in scenic and poetic detail that pulls you in and has a hold on you by the end of the first episode. Anything but plodding, its pace is deliberate, teasing, building in intensity like slow and powerful sex, complete with the titillation of bare skin. The release comes in the form of quick bursts of violent action, long enough to satisfy butAn epic adventure/intrigue tale, beautifully rich in scenic and poetic detail that pulls you in and has a hold on you by the end of the first episode. Anything but plodding, its pace is deliberate, teasing, building in intensity like slow and powerful sex, complete with the titillation of bare skin. The release comes in the form of quick bursts of violent action, long enough to satisfy but leaving you wanting more. Put the kids to bed and turn the lights off, pay attention and absorb the story and your patience will certainly be rewarded.… Expand
  6. Behold
    Dec 24, 2014
    10
    Do not be deceived by pessimistic critics reviews, they have soiled themselves and lost the passion of adventure. The sort that cannot enjoy and immensely artful creative fiction. I am enthralled by the costume design, the beautiful cinematography, fantastic score and the alluring concepts of Asian culture woven into a sexy and exciting rendition of the fall of the Song Dynasty. If youDo not be deceived by pessimistic critics reviews, they have soiled themselves and lost the passion of adventure. The sort that cannot enjoy and immensely artful creative fiction. I am enthralled by the costume design, the beautiful cinematography, fantastic score and the alluring concepts of Asian culture woven into a sexy and exciting rendition of the fall of the Song Dynasty. If you like Game of Thrones you will certainly love Marco Polo. Although the feminists viewers will be offended I do fancy some of the more passionate scenes involved. I registered on Meta Critics just for this show, and it is the first thing that has brought a smile to my face in over a week. As the season progresses the articulation does so as well and I found myself clapping at the finale with joy. They are some very unique aspects to this show but most of all I truly loved the immersion of the cultures and the historical period of the mid to late 1200;s as there are no other shows that have such an imaginative take on the Silk Road period. The acting was solid and although at times it lacked action it more than makes up for it in the end.

    Overall I will be a zealous supporter of this show. It literally took me aback at times, had me leaning in at others yet most of all had me frequenting cigarette breaks due to the collective experience. Very well done thank you so much for this show Netflix.

    Ben Fatto.    … Expand
  7. Asil
    Dec 24, 2014
    10
    I also registered here to defend the show. I never quite understood what qualifies one to be a professional critic. That being said, I think people can judge for themselves, AFTER watching a couple of episodes. I for one enjoyed the first season, very much. The character, Marco Polo was already the only white person among Asians, he did not need to over-dramatize his role since he stoodI also registered here to defend the show. I never quite understood what qualifies one to be a professional critic. That being said, I think people can judge for themselves, AFTER watching a couple of episodes. I for one enjoyed the first season, very much. The character, Marco Polo was already the only white person among Asians, he did not need to over-dramatize his role since he stood out anyway. It's also nice to see that although the story is about him, it can only be in context of the larger-than-life characters. The show has layers of complexities, and I like that it is not very predictable. While the critics claims that Marco Polo is a boring character, I think that they missed they entire point. He is an outsider! The Khan is ruthless, and he is far from foolish. Kublai has a huge ego as is expected, and people with such big egos tend to behave very foolishly. The story is about power struggles which Marco isn't much a part of. He is an outsider, and he behaves as such. He is humble and does not believe himself to be above anyone, as is not typically the case when the white westerner gets involved.

    As to the role of women and nudity - as a woman myself, all I can say is "what else is new"? I enjoyed the show, very much and I would recommend it.    … Expand
  8. taokla007
    Dec 26, 2014
    10
    Critics are a bunch of nobodies. Noone really pays attention to them! Marco Polo is a really superbly crafted show and I really hope for a 2nd season. Tha battles and combat training scenes were great and the acting was pretty good. Not to mention the stunning sceneries and structures!!!
  9. 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
  10. wardog27
    Dec 26, 2014
    10
    Excellent tv series cleaver intricate woven plot portraying different cultures and their interactions brilliantly with insight and intriuge. A great series if you have a brain for cleaver plots and dynamic. Highly recommended, not for stick in the muds or stupid people :p
  11. zeplini
    Dec 26, 2014
    10
    Truly amazing show and brilliant from beginning to end, one has to wonder if the critics were watching the same show or if there opinion really matters any more?

    As the people have spoken on this!
  12. testychicken
    Dec 26, 2014
    10
    It started off slow, but once it gets going the pay off is well worth it. The landscapes and scenery are absolutely amazing, I've been to that part of the world and its even better in person. the acting is good and gets better as the story unravels but the storytelling and character development of the writing is on par with House of Cards. No clue what the "critics" are comparing it toIt started off slow, but once it gets going the pay off is well worth it. The landscapes and scenery are absolutely amazing, I've been to that part of the world and its even better in person. the acting is good and gets better as the story unravels but the storytelling and character development of the writing is on par with House of Cards. No clue what the "critics" are comparing it to to give it such low scores. I started slow with the first three episodes, then it got really good and i binge watched the rest in one day. The plot twist at the end of the season is well worth a watch.… Expand
  13. Vashton
    Dec 28, 2014
    10
    Shocked to say this Show had me hooked by episode 2, The plot seems to get more and more interesting and they make use of their characters. If you liked shows Like Rome but with more action then this could easily be your next show to watch. The fighting in here helps the Drama side of things imo.
  14. Ramses
    Dec 19, 2014
    9
    This is actually a much better show than the critic rating would indicate. It's very entertaining. It reminded me a lot of the movie Mongol, so if you enjoyed that movie you will probably enjoy this.
  15. Madelyn2Pedler
    Dec 20, 2014
    10
    Loved it! Past tense because I watched all episodes. I'm sad that there will not be more of them. It is better than most of the garbage on T.V.
    The characters are rich with depth and complexity of emotions and traits. Diversity of culture with Middle Eastern, Chinese, Mongolian, and Europians paired with setting, costumes, and music make this series RICH and enjoyable to watch.
  16. Jambrose
    Dec 20, 2014
    10
    I thouroughly enjoyed this show. It definitley has it's low moments, but they pay-off is worth it 100%. I enjoyed it so much I'm currently watching it again with my room-mates. Don't buy intop the critic reviews, do your self a favor and watch the first three episodes before you make your decision
  17. isale8792
    Dec 20, 2014
    10
    like really? I just made an account to tell how awesome is this serie! I am already dying to see what happens for season 2. PS: I want to congratulate the staff because the scenary, clothes even the actors look awesome -they really got it right while casting-
  18. AleDeVe
    Dec 22, 2014
    10
    The show is amazing.
    I do not know whether it's 100% historically accurate, but everything seems very plausible, from the structures, to the costumes, to the songs and speeches. The absence of magical elements and stuff helps the credibility too; just in one occasion some weird stuff was going on, but because there were drugs into play. In any case, the show allowed me to know more about    The show is amazing.
    I do not know whether it's 100% historically accurate, but everything seems very plausible, from the structures, to the costumes, to the songs and speeches. The absence of magical elements and stuff helps the credibility too; just in one occasion some weird stuff was going on, but because there were drugs into play. In any case, the show allowed me to know more about some historical events that I had not the chance to learn in school, and this is definitely a plus.
    I do not share the faults found by some critic reviews say. I found the quality of the image always clear, in dark scenes too. The story is compelling and you always want to get back to see what's next.
    The characters are well-rounded, and both sides (Mongols and Chinese) have both positive and negative aspects. However, I have to say that the Chinese minister is perhaps too evilly characterised, so you naturally come to wish for his defeat.
    Particular mentions deserves Lorenzo Richelmy (Marco Polo): I found his acting particularly good, his speeches crystal clear and he himself charming. I was surprised to find out he's actually Italian, as I usually do not like Italian actors (I am Italian too, so I see many of them).
    There is but one thing I did not like, and it's the very last scene: that painting is way too explicit, and I seriously doubt someone with those ambitions and that political ability would keep such a painting in plain sight.
    Conclusion: can't wait for season 2!    … Expand
  19. 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
  20. melman
    Dec 22, 2014
    10
    Watched the entire 10 episodes in two nights...Could not stop watching...Loved it! I read some comments saying it was not accurate to historical facts...Yes, that might be the case and to them I suggest to watch the History Channel...I hope there is a season 2...
  21. cj15923
    Dec 24, 2014
    10
    This show absolutely blowed me away. I wasn't expecting much as I had read some scathing "critic" reviews but I immediately found out how mistaken they were. This show has the ability to transport you to this ancient time and culture bearing witness to the adventures of Marco and the Khan. It is like a modern day Shakespeare with several plots and subplots all building together andThis show absolutely blowed me away. I wasn't expecting much as I had read some scathing "critic" reviews but I immediately found out how mistaken they were. This show has the ability to transport you to this ancient time and culture bearing witness to the adventures of Marco and the Khan. It is like a modern day Shakespeare with several plots and subplots all building together and clashing. It's beautiful, captivating, touching, and most of all entertaining. I have been glued to this all season and I hope there will be a second.… Expand
  22. peternej
    Dec 24, 2014
    10
    i made an account to defend this show. I dont understand the critics reviews. great show, great acting, very entertaining. if you like game of thrones you will enjoy this show.
  23. Cjdeschenes
    Dec 26, 2014
    10
    A great tv show. I was hooked since I started watching it and finished in a week. A Great cast from top to bottom. I think the critics are very wrong!
  24. wadecb
    Dec 28, 2014
    10
    This is my 1st review. Why was I compelled to go to the trouble of reviewing Marco Polo? Like many other user reviews, to help correct the injustice that was the critic reviews.

    Cinematography amazing, actors were fantastic, elements of history related to the time and region made it all the more interesting. Action scenes, especially in season finale, were great. Bottom line: it    This is my 1st review. Why was I compelled to go to the trouble of reviewing Marco Polo? Like many other user reviews, to help correct the injustice that was the critic reviews.

    Cinematography amazing, actors were fantastic, elements of history related to the time and region made it all the more interesting. Action scenes, especially in season finale, were great.

    Bottom line: it was engaging. For about 50% of the TV series I try, I lose interest at about the 2nd episode and stop watching. Not the case with Marco Polo. I watched all 10 episodes in a week. Critics felt the story line was weak. I evidently disagree.    … Expand
  25. Abyssus
    Dec 21, 2014
    9
    It is weird that this show got so many low reviews by hands of 'professional' critics. I think it is rather pleasant show. Of course, it can't be like GoT because HBO is not behind then. This is well written enjoyable show. Well done Netflix.
  26. YayaChronic
    Dec 19, 2014
    10
    I made an account just to review this because of the critics rating, this show was amazing. First two or three episodes maybe start off slow but that made it that much better, Marco is played wonderfully, the king, the chancellor everyone just perfect. it makes sens that it took 90 million to produce this amazing show
  27. IanVoger
    Dec 22, 2014
    10
    I don't typically write reviews, I tend to vote with my wallet, but in this case of this show I felt I had to do something because of all the negative critical reviews. This show is fantastic, I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, or even hype it up too much, all I will say is if you watch it, you will enjoy it. This show is perfectly crafted. I'm thinking about writing a thank youI don't typically write reviews, I tend to vote with my wallet, but in this case of this show I felt I had to do something because of all the negative critical reviews. This show is fantastic, I don't want to spoil anything for anyone, or even hype it up too much, all I will say is if you watch it, you will enjoy it. This show is perfectly crafted. I'm thinking about writing a thank you note to Netflix and the Weinstein Company, and everyone else responsible for making this show possible.… Expand
  28. 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.
  29. 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.
  30. galena6
    Dec 26, 2014
    10
    Boy, do the critics have this wrong.
    They say Marco Polo didn't invent the catapult. This wasn't Netflix's problem, it was Polo's. He wasn't any historian, and enhanced his own story.
    That said, the series is pretty much based on history. Game of Thrones is fantasy. The series goes deep into Chinese culture and history - a lot is not obvious. There is great character development,    Boy, do the critics have this wrong.
    They say Marco Polo didn't invent the catapult. This wasn't Netflix's problem, it was Polo's. He wasn't any historian, and enhanced his own story.
    That said, the series is pretty much based on history. Game of Thrones is fantasy.
    The series goes deep into Chinese culture and history - a lot is not obvious.
    There is great character development, especially of the woman characters - beyond the soft core porn parts, which I am glad there almost none of in the second half.
    The second half of the series is superior to the first.
    Too bad the critics never saw the series to the end.    … 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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