Netflix's Swashbuckling Hit 'Sandokan' Earns Acclaim as Must-See Drama
Streaming giant Netflix has captivated audiences with a thrilling period drama that is being hailed as an absolute must-see. The eight-part television series Sandokan, which originally debuted on Italian network Rai 1 in December last year, has recently landed on Netflix and swiftly climbed into the platform's top 10 rankings.
A Classic Tale Reimagined for Modern Audiences
Based on Emilio Salgari's beloved Sandokan novels, this dynamic production transports viewers to 19th-century Southeast Asia. The story follows pirate captain Sandokan and his loyal crew as they battle to protect the Dayak people from the expanding British Empire. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the South China Sea, the series combines high-seas adventure with complex character relationships.
International Cast Brings Characters to Life
Turkish star Can Yaman, 36, delivers a powerful performance in the title role of Sandokan, while Italian actor Alessandro Preziosi, 52, portrays his companion Yanez. The international cast expands with Gossip Girl alumnus Ed Westwick, 38, appearing as pirate hunter Lord James Brooke, who finds himself competing with Sandokan for the affections of Marianne, played by Alanah Bloor. Scottish actor John Hannah, 63, known for narrating Race Across The World, completes the principal cast as Sergeant Murray.
Viewer Praise Highlights Series Strengths
Fans have taken to review platforms to express their enthusiasm for the production. One viewer on IMDB described it as "an extremely interesting and dynamic series" that maintains constant suspense through well-developed plotting and convincing character portrayals. The reviewer particularly noted how each episode ending creates compelling reasons to continue watching.
Another enthusiast praised the fresh approach to this classic Italian story, highlighting Can Yaman's performance as particularly noteworthy for representing a departure from his previous roles. This viewer expressed such appreciation that they planned to rewatch the series in English to better appreciate the actor's work, while eagerly anticipating a potential second season.
A third review commended the series for addressing significant themes including colonialism, friendship, love, and sacrifice through a modern, humanistic lens. This viewer emphasized that Sandokan transcends typical pirate narratives to explore the complexities of the human soul, describing it as "an absolute must-see" with Yaman delivering a fully convincing and heartfelt performance.
Contrasting Reception for Another Netflix Period Piece
While Sandokan enjoys widespread acclaim, Netflix's other recent period offering has received more mixed reactions. The murder mystery Seven Dials, based on Agatha Christie's 1929 novel, has generated viewer complaints despite chart success. Some fans have expressed disappointment with adaptations they feel have removed too much original material, resulting in diminished tension and intrigue. Criticism has focused on what some describe as a creaky script and reliance on boring tropes, with one viewer questioning how an Agatha Christie adaptation could become dull and uninteresting.
Sandokan represents Netflix's continued investment in international period dramas that blend action, romance, and historical conflict. With its combination of swashbuckling adventure, complex relationships, and positive viewer reception, the series demonstrates the streaming platform's ability to bring classic literary adventures to global audiences.
