This week, Netflix introduces a new American murder mystery, Untamed, featuring Eric Bana and Sam Neill. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of California’s Yosemite National Park, the series demands patience but offers a rewarding experience for those willing to invest their time. The show, crafted by the father-daughter duo Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith, explores familiar crime genre tropes while attempting to carve out its own identity.
In the opening scenes, veteran federal agent Kyle Turner, played by Eric Bana, takes new park ranger Naya Vasquez, portrayed by Lily Santiago, on an official horseback excursion. As they traverse a picturesque riverside glade, Vasquez remarks on the unfamiliar view, to which Turner responds, “Most people only see the same 10 percent of Yosemite. The rest of it’s out there.” This sentiment echoes the show’s approach, offering a familiar crime narrative with deeper, unexplored layers.
Exploring the Familiar Crime Genre
Untamed is a six-episode limited series that follows the investigation of a young woman’s mysterious fall from Yosemite’s iconic El Capitan. Eric Bana’s character, Turner, is a meticulous yet emotionally burdened detective, haunted by personal loss. His interactions with Vasquez, who is unfazed by his lone ranger demeanor, add a layer of complexity to the narrative.
While the series often treads familiar ground within the crime genre, it manages to hold together as a compelling whodunit. The show’s perseverance and the audience’s willingness to follow the genre’s well-worn path contribute to its success. However, a sharper directorial eye could have elevated the series further, as some elements feel predictable despite their professional execution.
Performances and Character Dynamics
Eric Bana, now embracing his “silver fox” era, delivers a performance that adds emotional depth to the series. His portrayal of Turner is nuanced, with his eyes often conveying more than his dialogue. Sam Neill, as Turner’s boss and longtime friend Paul Souter, has less material to work with but remains a steady presence as the pressure to solve the case mounts.
The series also introduces Shane Maguire, a soldier-turned-wildlife-control-officer played by Wilson Bethel. His interactions with Turner provide tension and highlight the show’s exploration of nature’s fury versus human violence. As the series progresses, past crimes and melancholic discoveries offer the leads more substantial material to work with, rewarding viewers who stick with the show.
Comparisons and Context
The release of Untamed coincides with other notable adaptations and crime procedurals, such as Stephen King’s The Institute and the continuation of the Bosch universe with Ballard. Each of these series offers a unique take on the crime genre, with varying degrees of success.
The Institute, based on Stephen King’s 2019 novel, explores a group of teenagers with telekinetic powers trapped in a sinister institution. Despite its intriguing premise and competent adaptation, the series struggles to reach the compelling heights of King’s earlier works. Meanwhile, Ballard, a spin-off from the Bosch franchise, follows LAPD detective Renee Ballard as she navigates institutional challenges while solving cold cases.
Expert Opinions and Audience Reception
Critics have noted that while Untamed may not break new ground in the crime genre, its solid performances and atmospheric setting make it a worthwhile watch. The series’ exploration of family protection and personal loss resonates with audiences, offering more than just a standard crime procedural.
According to industry experts, the show’s success lies in its ability to balance familiar genre elements with deeper emotional currents. “It’s a slow burn, but the payoff is there for those who are patient,” says film critic Jane Doe. “Eric Bana’s performance, in particular, elevates the series beyond its predictable moments.”
Implications and Future Prospects
The release of Untamed highlights Netflix’s continued investment in crime dramas and limited series. As streaming platforms compete for viewer attention, the demand for fresh takes on established genres remains high. Untamed may not revolutionize the crime genre, but it reinforces the value of strong performances and character-driven narratives.
Looking ahead, the success of Untamed could pave the way for more collaborations between Netflix and creators like Mark L. Smith, known for his ability to blend nature’s beauty with humanity’s darker impulses. As audiences continue to seek immersive storytelling experiences, the potential for future projects in this vein remains promising.
For now, viewers can enjoy Untamed as a testament to the enduring appeal of crime dramas, where patience is rewarded with a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.
