Netflix's latest period drama, Sandokan, has been winning over audiences since its arrival on the streaming platform. The eight-part series, which originally aired on Disney Plus in 2025, is now climbing the Netflix top 10 and has drawn praise for its gripping storytelling.
Based on Emilio Salgari's novels, the show stars Turkish actor Can Yaman as the pirate hero Sandokan, who sails the South China Sea in 19th-century Asia. The plot follows Sandokan after he frees a mysterious prisoner who prophesies he will liberate his people from oppression, bringing him into conflict with the British army.
The cast also includes Alanah Bloor as Marianne, the consul's daughter known as the 'Pearl of Labuan', and Ed Westwick as Lord James Brooke, a pirate hunter who competes for her affections. John Hannah, known for The Mummy, plays Sergeant Murray. Hannah told Metro the series offers escapism while resonating with modern discussions on colonialism.
Fans have described the series as 'an extremely interesting and dynamic series' that leaves them wanting more. Despite some criticism over casting, many have praised Yaman's performance as 'fully convincing and heartfelt'. The show currently holds a 6.9 rating on IMDb.
