Stunningly picturesque thriller, 'Untamed,' soars due to striking performances, separating it from the pack
In the heart of California's Yosemite National Park, a murder mystery unfolds in the Netflix series, Untamed. This six-episode miniseries, filmed in the stunning landscapes of British Columbia, Canada, stars Eric Bana as Kyle Turner, a National Park Service Investigative Services Branch special agent.
Turner, a troubled lead agent, is joined by Naya Vasquez, played by Lily Santiago. Vasquez, a rookie park ranger and young mother with a troubled past from Los Angeles, becomes Turner's partner as they work together to unravel the mystery surrounding the suspicious death of a young girl initially thought to be an accidental fall.
As the investigation progresses, secrets among squatters, drug-running, and tangled personal relationships come to light. Turner and Vasquez uncover a network of lies about the girl's identity, paternity, and connections, leading to a violent and tragic climax. The series explores themes of grief, responsibility, and the tension between law and nature in the park.
Critics have praised Untamed as a crime drama that skillfully blends the mystery genre with intense character drama. Eric Bana's portrayal of the haunted park agent and Lily Santiago's portrayal of Naya Vasquez, avoiding being a goofy, one-dimensional sidekick, add emotional depth to the series. The natural setting of Yosemite is highlighted almost as a character itself, with atmospheric outdoor visuals balancing the gritty crime narrative.
Key characters include Sam Neill as Paul Souter, the chief park ranger involved in the central tragedy, and Rosemarie DeWitt as Jill Bodwin, Turner’s ex-wife. Each delivers an excellent performance, adding layers to the complex narrative.
Untamed keeps viewers hooked throughout its six episodes, with plot twists that work effectively and consequences to Turner's errors. The landscape in the series is central to the show, with some shots of Yosemite National Park included in the series.
In summary, Untamed offers a gripping story rooted in nature and human complexity, with strong performances and a layered mystery at its core. It's an accomplished, confident, and engaging thriller that is not to be missed.
- The east coast news outlets have been buzzing about the captivating Netflix series, Untamed, which delves into the genre of movies-and-tv, specifically crime drama and lifestyle.
- The entertainment industry has hailed the art of storytelling in Untamed, set against the backdrop of Yosemite National Park, a place where nature and crime clash.
- Untamed's setting, the middle of a national park, presents a unique canvas for exploring crime, making it a fresh addition to the news feeds about art and entertainment.
- Despite being an investigation story filled with crime and suspense, Untamed also incorporates elements of current events, tackling themes like responsibility, relationships, and the delicate balance between law and nature, making it a compelling watch in the realm of news and lifestyle.
