Marco Polo: One Hundred Eyes

Main Plot

"Marco Polo: One Hundred Eyes" is a standalone special episode from the Netflix series "Marco Polo," directed by Alik Sakharov. The narrative focuses on the character Hundred Eyes, a blind monk with exceptional martial arts skills. The plot delves into his backstory, exploring how he was captured and became a slave in the court of Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor. Throughout the episode, Hundred Eyes grapples with his past and the loss of his freedom, while also imparting his knowledge of martial arts to Marco Polo, who is eager to learn. The special highlights Hundred Eyes' internal conflict between his desire for revenge against those who wronged him and his duties as a monk. His journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as he comes to terms with his new role at the court and his identity as a teacher and warrior. The episode enriches the main series by providing depth to a beloved character, showcasing his profound skills and complex personality.

Characters

• Benedict Wong plays Kublai Khan, the Mongol emperor who interacts with the warrior monk One Hundred Eyes, exploring themes of loyalty, power, and martial arts mastery.
• Tom Wu plays Hundred Eyes, a blind monk who mentors Marco Polo in martial arts and spirituality, significantly shaping his skills and philosophical outlook.
• Lorenzo Richelmy plays Marco Polo, a Venetian merchant who becomes a protégé and cultural ambassador in the court of Kublai Khan.

Ending Explained

"Marco Polo: One Hundred Eyes" is a short film that serves as a standalone spin-off from the Netflix series "Marco Polo." Directed by Alik Sakharov, the film focuses on the character Hundred Eyes, a blind martial arts master and mentor to Marco Polo. In the conclusion of the film, Hundred Eyes faces a pivotal moment of self-discovery and decision. After enduring torture and refusing to renounce his monastic vows, he is blinded by the invading Mongol forces as punishment. Despite this brutal act, he finds a new sense of purpose and power in his blindness, which enhances his other senses and deepens his mastery of martial arts. The film ends with Hundred Eyes fully embracing his role as a teacher to Marco Polo, having reconciled his past and his new identity. He imparts his knowledge and philosophical insights to Marco, preparing him for the complex world of the Mongol empire. The conclusion underscores themes of resilience, transformation, and the transcendence of physical limitations through spiritual and mental strength. This ending sets the stage for Hundred Eyes' continued influence and presence in the main series, where he remains a pivotal character.