Marco Polo Season 3: Everything We Know So Far

 

Marco Polo is a Netflix series created by John Fusco in December 2014. The series is a historical drama that revolves around the life of the Italian explorer Marco Polo, who travelled extensively across Asia during the 13th century.

 

Marco Polo stars Lorenzo Richelmy in the title role as Marco Polo, a Venetian merchant who travels to the court of Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor, played by Benedict Wong.

 

Joan Chen, Rick Yune, Amr Waked, Zhu Zhu, Tom Wu, Uli Latukefu, Chin Han, etc., also starred in the series. It was produced by The Weinstein Company and John Fusco, who did extensive research along the Silk Route on horseback.

 

He also researched Marco Polo’s last will and many Mongol traditions and customs to make the series historically accurate. However, Marco Polo received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the show for its visuals, action sequences, and performances, while others criticised its historical inaccuracies and uneven pacing.

 

They felt that Marco Polo was neither a historical fiction nor an accurate depiction of history. It was nominated for several awards, including its cinematography, visual effects, and other technical aspects between 2015 and 16.

 

 

 

Official Announcement on Marco Polo Season 3

 

Marco Polo debuted on Netflix in 2014 as a historical drama with a huge budget. The lavish outdoor scenes, war scenes, and an international cast attracted a lot of attention.

 

However, the show did not deliver in terms of viewership and followers. It received mixed reviews. Marco Polo season 2 came back in 2015 in a low-key renewal without much fanfare.

 

The budget also appeared to have been cut as there were fewer outdoor scenes, and the scale of war scenes was also reduced. This indicated trouble for the series. In December 2016, Netflix announced that they were cancelling the series and there would be no season 3.

 

Although a reason for the cancellation was not given, many insiders have guessed that a massive loss of $200 million that the network had to incur was one of the strongest contributors to the cancellation.

 

The Weinstein Co. and Netflix together decided to cut their losses and cancel the series without any scope for negotiations.

 

 

 

Previous Seasons and Episodes of Marco Polo

 

Marco Polo is a historical drama that revolves around the life of the famous Venetian merchant and explorer Marco Polo. It specifically focuses on his travels along the Silk Route till he reached the Mongol empire of Kublai Khan.

 

The series was a straight-to-series project by Netflix that premiered in December 2014. The series had two seasons, with 10 episodes in each season and one Christmas special. The show received an equal number of good and bad reviews.

 

The series was praised by many Mongolian historians for their accuracy in representing culture and tradition. At the same time, there were many inaccuracies in the historical representation of events and characteristics.

 

This also angered many. Another aspect of the series that many critics praised was the vast diversity of cast members, who were from different ethnicities. There were many known and unknown faces in the cast, chiefly Benedict Wong, Michelle Yeoh, Tom Wu, etc.

 

The series received praise for its cinematography along the Silk Route from Persia through to China. However, it needs to be noted that China did not permit the filming of the series in their country.

 

It was filmed mostly in Kazakhstan, Italy and Malaysia.

 

 

 

Where to watch Marco Polo

 

Netflix is home to both seasons of Marco Polo, and it can be streamed in all countries, including the United States of America, Canada and Great Britain.

 

 

 

Google Trends Data Analysis of Marco Polo Season 3

 

Marco Polo was one of the most expensive TV series created at the time of its release in 2014, and it held the honour for a period of time too.

 

As a result of the high production budget, beautiful locales, and extravagant fight scenes, the show remained very popular despite no news since 2016. Although the popularity dipped in the years following the end of the series, Marco Polo continues to be a topic of discussion as seen from Google Trends for the past 12 months.

 

The show was the topic of many articles for its accurate depiction of Mongol culture and traditions. The trend saw many highs and lows this year, but it always bounced back strongly.

 

Marco Polo remained in the public consciousness for the rich and amazing locales, traditional Mongol music, and also the depiction of Kublai Khan.

 

 

Social Media Engagement of Marco Polo Season 3

 

While the show enjoyed better popularity online, on social media, the popularity of Marco Polo was more muted. The series maintained a low profile for most of the year, but it peaked in May 2023 with an article praising the show.

 

Marco Polo enjoyed attention on Reddit and X (Twitter) more than any other medium. The reason was an article that praised the show for recreating the magic of Asian culture from the Middle Ages, particularly Mongolian culture.

 

There were many more articles online requesting for the show to be revived by Netflix, but they failed to spark discussions on Facebook, X (Twitter), Reddit, etc.

 

 

Expected Plot of Upcoming Season of Marco Polo

 

Marco Polo is a thirteenth-century traveller whose life and journey were recorded in the book The Travels of Marco Polo. In season 1 of the show, we see how Marco Polo came to meet the Mongol khagan, Kublai Khan.

 

Throughout Season 1 and Season 2, Marco Polo becomes more and more embroiled in the internal politics and power play in the Kublai Khan’s court and the Yuan dynasty. In the finale of season 2, Kublai Khan finally regained his title as Khan of Khans after killing Kaidu and Ahmad.

 

Season 3 would most likely begin with Kublai Khan, his heir, and his leadership being consolidated before facing a new threat. In season 2, we see Marco Polo returning to Kublai Khan, informing them about the arrival of the Christian army.

 

In this new season, Kublai Khan and Marco Polo will have to fight and defeat the invading Christian army of Prester John. He also has to bring peace to his khagan to retain his title as Khan of Khans.

 

 

Important Characters of Marco Polo

 

1. Kublai Khan

 

Kublai Khan, portrayed by Benedict Wong, is a complex and formidable character. As the Great Khan of the Mongol Empire and the show’s central figure, Kublai Khan is depicted as a shrewd and ambitious ruler.

 

He’s a visionary leader who seeks to expand his empire by conquering new lands but he’s also portrayed as a man deeply conflicted by the responsibilities of his position. Kublai Khan’s character is marked by a duality – a fierce warrior in pursuit of power and a compassionate individual who values loyalty and honour.

 

His dynamic character development throughout the series showcases his struggle with tradition and progress as he grapples with the shifting dynamics of his empire and the challenges posed by his own family and political rivals.

 

Benedict Wong’s performance brings depth and charisma to this multifaceted character, making Kublai Khan a captivating and unforgettable presence in the series.

 

2. Marco Polo

 

Marco Polo, portrayed by Lorenzo Richelmy, serves as the central protagonist and the audience’s entry point into the world of 13th-century Asia. Marco is a young Venetian merchant who embarks on a transformative journey to the Mongol Empire.

 

His role is primarily one of exploration, cultural exchange, and adaptation. Throughout the series, Marco Polo navigates complex political intrigue, experiences personal growth, and becomes a trusted advisor to Kublai Khan.

 

His character symbolises the clash and fusion of East and West as he learns to adapt to the customs, traditions, and challenges of the foreign lands he encounters, all while maintaining his identity and values from Europe.

 

3. Prince Jingim

 

Prince Jingim is a significant character, portrayed by actor Remy Hii. He is the eldest son of Kublai Khan and is groomed to be the heir to the Great Khanate, making him an essential figure in the Mongol Empire.

 

Prince Jingim is a character marked by his sense of duty, loyalty, and the immense pressure that comes with his royal lineage. Throughout the series, he faces the challenge of living up to his father’s expectations, navigating the complex politics of the Mongol court, and struggling with personal insecurities.

 

His character is a central figure in the series, providing insight into the intricacies of power, leadership, and the tensions between tradition and innovation within the Mongol Empire.

 

4. Ahmad

 

Ahmad is a prominent character portrayed by actor Mahesh Jadu. He is a complex figure who serves as the series’ primary antagonist. Ahmad is a Persian-born chancellor and advisor to Kublai Khan, the Great Khan of the Mongol Empire.

 

His character is defined by his intelligence, cunning, and unrelenting ambition. Ahmad often schemes to consolidate his power and influence within the Khan’s court, frequently at the expense of Marco Polo and other characters.

 

His character embodies the tension between tradition and progress, as he is frequently at odds with Kublai Khan’s vision for the empire. Ahmad’s character adds layers of political intrigue and conflict to the series, making him a central figure in the complex power dynamics of the Mongol Empire.

 

5. Kaidu

 

Kaidu, portrayed by actor Rick Yune, is a compelling and multi-faceted character. Kaidu is the nephew of Kublai Khan, the Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, and a powerful rival to the Khan’s rule.

 

His character is marked by a strong sense of honour, traditional values, and a deep desire to preserve Mongol traditions against Kublai Khan’s innovative and foreign-influenced reforms. Kaidu’s determination to challenge Kublai Khan’s authority creates a significant source of conflict throughout the series.

 

His character represents the struggle between old and new within the Mongol Empire. Kaidu’s charisma, leadership, and complex motivations make him a captivating and central figure in the political and cultural landscape of the show.

 

 

Important Crew Members

 

1. Creator – John Fusco

 

The Netflix series “Marco Polo” was created by John Fusco, a seasoned writer and producer known for his work in both film and television. Fusco, with a passion for historical and epic storytelling, conceived the series.

 

It was an ambitious project that explored the adventures and interactions of the famed Venetian explorer Marco Polo in the 13th-century Mongol Empire. Fusco’s vision was to bring this rich historical narrative to life, infusing it with captivating characters, intricate politics, and grand spectacles.

 

His expertise in storytelling, particularly in historical and adventure genres, played a pivotal role in shaping the series. Fusco’s dedication to authenticity and his ability to weave compelling narratives made “Marco Polo” a visually stunning and engaging exploration of a pivotal period in history.

 

2. Directors – Daniel Minahan and David Petrarca

 

Daniel Minahan and David Petrarca were two accomplished directors who made significant contributions to the Netflix series “Marco Polo.” Daniel Minahan, known for his work on shows like “Game of Thrones,” directed several episodes of the series.

 

His directorial skills brought a cinematic quality to the show, enriching the visual storytelling with his keen eye for detail and compelling character development. David Petrarca, another seasoned director with a wide-ranging television portfolio, also played a vital role in shaping the series.

 

His episodes of “Marco Polo” were marked by their dynamic pacing and thoughtful exploration of the characters’ depth, enhancing the series’ emotional and narrative impact. Together, Minahan and Petrarca’s directorial talents contributed to the series’ success, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of Marco Polo’s adventures in the Mongol Empire.

 

3. Writers – Matthew White and Patrick Macmanus

 

Matthew White and Patrick Macmanus, the talented writers behind Netflix’s “Marco Polo,” played crucial roles in the series’ success. Their extensive experience in crafting engaging narratives and intricate character development greatly contributed to the show’s appeal.

 

White’s background in historical and epic storytelling, along with Macmanus’s skill in character-driven drama, created a compelling synergy that brought depth to the series. Their ability to balance the historical accuracy of the narrative with captivating storytelling made “Marco Polo” an immersive experience.

 

This attention to detail and a commitment to authenticity ensured the series resonated with viewers, making it a successful and visually stunning exploration of the Venetian explorer’s adventures in the Mongol Empire.

 

4. Cinematographer – Vanja Cernjul and Romain Lacourbas

 

Vanja Cernjul and Romain Lacourbas are accomplished cinematographers who played integral roles in shaping the visual aesthetics of the Netflix series “Marco Polo.” Vanja Cernjul, known for his work on various acclaimed works like “Crazy Rich Asians” and “30 Rock,” brought his expertise to the show, contributing to its lush and immersive visuals.

 

His skill in capturing the grandeur of the settings and creating a sense of historical authenticity was crucial in making the series visually captivating. Romain Lacourbas, with a background in both film and television, added his unique cinematic touch to “Marco Polo.” His work on the series helped bring the 13th-century Mongol Empire to life, with a keen eye for detail and dynamic camera work. He previously worked in “The Witcher,” “ZeroZeroZero”, etc.

 

5. Music – Daniele Luppi

 

Daniele Luppi, the composer responsible for the music of the Netflix series “Marco Polo,” added a rich and evocative sonic dimension to the show’s narrative. Luppi’s score is a fusion of Eastern and Western musical influences, perfectly complementing the series’ exploration of cultural exchange and the clash of civilizations during Marco Polo’s adventures in the 13th-century Mongol Empire.

 

Luppi’s music masterfully captures the epic scale of the series while also delving into the emotional depth of the characters. It features traditional Mongolian instruments, creating an authentic atmosphere that immerses viewers in the historical setting.

 

His orchestral compositions add a layer of grandeur to the show’s visuals, enhancing the storytelling and heightening the drama.

 

 

Similar Shows as Marco Polo

 

1. Black Sails

 

“Black Sails” is an exhilarating Prime Video series that serves as a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel “Treasure Island.” This gritty and visually stunning show, created by Jonathan E. Steinberg and Robert Levine, unfolds in the Golden Age of Piracy in the early 18th century.

 

The story revolves around the legendary pirate Captain Flint and his crew and their quest for fortune and survival in the lawless and treacherous world of the high seas.

 

Filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and epic naval battles, “Black Sails” masterfully combines historical elements with thrilling storytelling, offering a captivating and visceral portrayal of the pirate life.

 

2. Frontier

 

“Frontier” is a Netflix series that thrusts viewers into the perilous and tumultuous world of the North American fur trade during the late 18th century. Created by Peter Blackie and Rob Blackie, the show delves into the ruthless competition among fur traders, Native American tribes, and the Hudson’s Bay Company.

 

At the centre of this gripping drama is Declan Harp, played by Jason Momoa, a charismatic and enigmatic outlaw fur trapper seeking revenge. With its intense action, intricate character dynamics, and the stunning wilderness of the Canadian frontier, “Frontier” delivers a visceral and immersive journey into a harsh and lawless era in North American history.

 

3. Vikings

 

“Vikings” is a historical drama series on Netflix that delves into the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok’s adventures and the rise of the Viking Age. Created by Michael Hirst, the show is renowned for its captivating storytelling, remarkable characters, and spectacular battles.

 

It explores the cultural clashes, political intrigue, and exploration of new lands by these seafaring warriors. As it unfolds over multiple seasons, “Vikings” brilliantly balances historical accuracy with fictional elements.

 

The show is a compelling saga that captures the essence of Viking mythology and the tumultuous period in which they lived. The series showcases the ambitions, conquests, and sacrifices of these iconic historical figures.

 

4. Spartacus

 

“Spartacus” is an epic historical drama series that aired on Starz, chronicling the legendary gladiator and slave revolt against the Roman Republic in the 1st century BC. Created by Steven S. DeKnight, the show is celebrated for its visceral action sequences, intense drama, and complex character development.

 

It follows the journey of Spartacus, portrayed by Andy Whitfield and later Liam McIntyre, as he transforms from a gladiator into a rebel leader. “Spartacus” is known for its explicit portrayal of ancient Roman society and the struggle for freedom, offering a thrilling and, at times, brutal depiction of this iconic chapter in history.

 

5. The Last Kingdom

 

“The Last Kingdom” is a Netflix historical drama series based on Bernard Cornwell’s “The Saxon Stories” novels. Set in the 9th century, it follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon nobleman captured and raised by Vikings, as he navigates the shifting allegiances between the Saxons and Danes during the Viking Invasions.

 

The series weaves a compelling narrative filled with political intrigue, battles, and personal quests for identity and power. With its well-developed characters, rich historical context, and the clash of cultures, “The Last Kingdom” is a captivating exploration of the complex and volatile period in England’s history when kingdoms were forged and empires clashed.