This week’s streaming lineup features a mix of intriguing offerings, including an American murder mystery led by Eric Bana and Sam Neill, a Stephen King adaptation, and a crime procedural from the Bosch universe. Among these, Untamed, available on Netflix, stands out as a slow-burning thriller set against the backdrop of California’s Yosemite National Park.
Untamed opens with veteran federal agent Kyle Turner, played by Eric Bana, introducing new park ranger Naya Vasquez, portrayed by Lily Santiago, to the vast and often unseen areas of Yosemite. As they traverse a picturesque riverside glade, Turner remarks on how most visitors only see a fraction of the park, hinting at the mysteries that lie beyond. This sentiment mirrors the series itself, which, while crafted with care, often feels like a retread of familiar crime genre themes.
The Familiar Yet Engaging Plot
In its six-episode arc, Untamed follows the investigation of a young woman’s mysterious fall from Yosemite’s iconic El Capitan. Turner, a dedicated but troubled investigator, is haunted by personal demons, including a strained relationship with his remarried ex-wife, played by Rosemarie DeWitt. Despite these challenges, Turner’s partnership with Vasquez provides a fresh dynamic, as she navigates her new role with a pragmatic approach.
The series, created by father-daughter duo Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith, explores themes of crime and punishment, often treading familiar ground. Mark L. Smith, known for his work on American Primeval, brings a nuanced understanding of nature’s fury and humanity’s darker impulses. However, the show’s reliance on genre conventions may leave some viewers yearning for more originality.
Performances and Direction
Eric Bana’s portrayal of Kyle Turner adds depth to the character, with his expressive eyes conveying more than the script allows. As Turner’s superior and confidant, Sam Neill’s role is more subdued, yet his presence adds gravitas to the unfolding drama. The interactions between Turner and wildlife control officer Shane Maguire, played by Wilson Bethel, inject tension and complexity into the narrative.
While the series benefits from strong performances, a sharper directorial vision could have elevated the material. The show’s pacing requires patience, as the narrative gradually builds to a climax that offers both resolution and reflection on the costs of protection and justice.
Comparisons and Context
Untamed is part of a broader trend of crime dramas that blend procedural elements with character-driven storytelling. Comparisons can be drawn to other series such as Bosch and its spin-off Ballard, which similarly explore institutional challenges within law enforcement. These shows reflect a growing interest in narratives that delve into the complexities of justice and morality.
Meanwhile, the adaptation of Stephen King’s The Institute offers a different take on suspense, with its focus on supernatural elements and adolescent protagonists. This series, while competent, lacks the unhinged energy of King’s earlier works, yet it completes a creative circle by echoing the influences of Stranger Things.
Implications and Future Prospects
As streaming platforms continue to expand their offerings, series like Untamed highlight the challenges of balancing originality with genre expectations. While the show may not break new ground, its commitment to character development and atmospheric storytelling provides a satisfying experience for fans of the genre.
Looking ahead, the success of such series may encourage creators to explore more innovative narratives that push the boundaries of traditional crime dramas. For now, Untamed stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of mysteries set against the backdrop of America’s natural landscapes.
