Eric Bana returns to the small screen in the Netflix thriller Untamed, a series that demands patience but rewards viewers with a meticulous exploration of crime and nature. Set against the backdrop of California’s vast Yosemite National Park, the show pairs Bana with Lily Santiago in a narrative that intertwines murder mystery with the rugged beauty of the wilderness.
The series opens with a dramatic scene: a young woman plunges off the iconic El Capitan, setting the stage for a complex investigation led by veteran federal agent Kyle Turner, portrayed by Bana. His character is a seasoned but troubled detective, whose personal struggles add depth to his professional pursuits. New park ranger Naya Vasquez, played by Santiago, joins him, bringing a fresh perspective to the familiar trope of the lone ranger detective.
A Familiar Yet Intriguing Crime Drama
While Untamed is crafted with care and features strong performances, it occasionally treads familiar ground within the crime genre. The series, created by Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith, spans six episodes, each building on the last to reveal layers of crime and personal sacrifice. The creators, known for their work on American Primeval, bring their signature touch of nature’s fury and human violence to this project.
Despite its predictable elements, the show maintains a professional polish. Bana’s portrayal of Turner is nuanced, with his expressive eyes often conveying more than dialogue. Sam Neill, as Turner’s boss Paul Souter, adds gravitas to the series, though his character could benefit from more development.
Patience and Payoff
The initial episodes of Untamed may feel formulaic, but as the series progresses, it delves deeper into the characters’ pasts and the park’s mysteries. This slow-burn approach requires viewers’ patience, but those who stick with it will find a rewarding narrative that examines themes of family protection and personal redemption.
“Most people only see the same 10 percent of Yosemite. The rest of it’s out there,” Turner tells Vasquez, a metaphor for the series itself, which offers more beneath the surface.
Comparative Thrillers and Genre Evolution
Comparisons to other recent thrillers are inevitable. The Institute, a Stephen King adaptation available on Stan, offers a different take on suspense. While it deals with supernatural elements and teenage telekinesis, it lacks the gritty realism of Untamed. Overseen by King veterans, The Institute features a competent adaptation but struggles to reach the compelling heights of its source material.
Meanwhile, The Cleaner on BritBox and Ballard on Amazon Prime Video provide alternative crime narratives. The Cleaner, a British comedy, explores crime scenes with a humorous twist, while Ballard, a spin-off from the Bosch franchise, offers a procedural approach with a focus on institutional challenges.
Looking Ahead
As Untamed unfolds, it challenges viewers to look beyond the surface, much like the unexplored expanses of Yosemite. The series’ slow pace may not suit everyone, but its dedication to character development and atmospheric storytelling makes it a noteworthy addition to the crime thriller genre.
With its combination of stunning landscapes and intricate plotlines, Untamed is a testament to the enduring appeal of crime dramas that dare to explore the human condition amidst nature’s grandeur. As audiences continue to seek out engaging narratives, series like Untamed remind us of the power of patience and the rewards of a well-told story.
