Sandokan, an Italian period drama based on the swashbuckling pirate novels by Emilio Salgari, has entered the Netflix UK top 10 chart at number nine since its addition last week. The series, which originally aired in Italy last year, follows Sandokan and his band of international pirates as they attempt to free Borneo from British colonial control in 1841.
The show features a love triangle between Sandokan, the daughter of the British consul, and a renowned pirate hunter. British audiences may recognise actors Ed Westwick, Owen Teale, and John Hannah in supporting roles alongside leads Can Yaman, Alanah Bloor, and Alessandro Preziosi.
While English-language critic reviews are scarce, fan reactions on IMDb have been largely positive, with the series holding a 7.0/10 average from over 1,600 ratings. One reviewer described it as 'full of intriguing twists and constant suspense,' though some noted the eight-episode season 'feels rushed' and the acting leaves 'room for improvement.'
The show has been a ratings success in Italy and also trended on Netflix in the US, raising questions about a potential second season.
