He makes the show. This show could be called The Great Khan instead of Marco Polo. Kublai is the force on the show but everyone is doing a great job especially in season 2.
That's like saying Tor Johnson made Bride Of The Monster
*All they make are unwatchable movies from unreadable books.
--Clarence Worley
Given that I've gone back and forth between watching him in Marco Polo, and watching him play a NASA scientist in "The Martian" (also recently on Netflix, if you haven't seen it, it's an awesome movie).
I do have to say that he's a tie with Joan Chen, though. Her Empress Chabi is superb.
I absolutely agree with you? He steals very scene he's in and you can't take your eyes off. The actor's emotionally range is amazing; you never know if he's going to be humorous, disturbingly wicked or the compassionate father/ruler.
Great casting!!!
The entire cast is exceptional on so many levels.
I love his performance as Kublai as well. I'd even say it's among my favorite performances in tv shows. His truly the soul of the show and has a strong presence in all of his scenes.
shareI agree, unfortunately however there are rumours that he may not be returning for Season 3
shareIt is definitely one of the most underrated performances I can think of. His Kublai is a phenomenal creation, he can be funny, terrifying, despicable and sympathetic all in one scene. He's so good that I forget that I am watching an actor but a real ruler who is trying to lead a kingdom. You almost have no idea what he's going to do next in each scene. Hardly anybody mentions him when talking about all time great television performances. To me he's up there with Bryan Cranston in Breaking Bad.
Una!
I think it's an otherwise completely mediocre show. But he really goes above and beyond. He captures every facet of the character.
Guess who has two thumbs, speaks limited French and hasn't cried once today? This moi.