Netflix’s Untamed offers a unique twist on the crime procedural genre by setting the story in the vast wilderness of Yosemite National Park. While the scenic beauty of the park and its intricate dynamics make it a captivating backdrop, the show struggles to deliver on its promise of a gripping mystery. Here’s a closer look at what works and what falls flat.
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A Familiar Crime Mystery Set Against a Breathtaking Landscape
At its core, Untamed follows a well-worn formula: a dead woman is found at the foot of the iconic El Capitan, and the investigation quickly turns into a classic “whodunit” mystery. Ranger Kyle Turner (Eric Bana) is assigned to investigate, and he’s not just any ranger—he’s a seasoned agent from the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch. Turner’s investigation is supported by Naya Vasquez (Lily Santiago), a rookie ranger who provides a more lighthearted contrast to his gruff demeanor.
While the premise of a mysterious death and a search for clues is compelling, Untamed struggles to find new ground in its execution. Turner is your typical brooding, antihero detective—a character we’ve seen countless times before in crime dramas. His complex past, estranged relationships, and personal demons make him a cliché, and while Bana’s performance is solid, it fails to bring anything fresh to this worn-out trope.
How Does Untamed Differentiate Itself from Other Crime Dramas?
One of the few things that sets Untamed apart is its setting. Unlike most crime procedurals, which rely on cityscapes or small towns, this show plunges into the rugged, unforgiving terrain of Yosemite. The natural beauty of the park is not just a backdrop—it becomes an integral part of the show. Cinematographers Michael McDonough and Brendan Uegama capture the park’s majestic landscapes and treacherous terrains, giving the show a unique visual appeal that helps elevate the overall experience.
The Show’s Weak Characters and Underdeveloped Plot
Though the plot promises intrigue, Untamed is weighed down by its predictable writing and underdeveloped characters. Turner’s interactions with the other characters, including his ex-wife Jill (Rosemarie DeWitt) and the park’s veteran ranger Paul (Sam Neill), feel forced and lack depth. The dialogue fluctuates between unnecessary exposition and awkward attempts at humor, with lines like “That’s the job, Ranger Vazquez” serving as a reminder that the show often fails to trust its audience to read between the lines.
Can the Supporting Cast Save the Series?
Despite the star-studded cast, Untamed suffers from performances that lack the energy and depth required to make these characters compelling. Eric Bana, although skilled, doesn’t manage to inject his character with enough emotion or complexity. DeWitt and Neill, both highly talented actors, are left with underwritten roles that do little to add to the story. Their performances feel disjointed, with their characters shifting to accommodate plot twists that lack coherence.
Yosemite Takes Center Stage in Untamed
While the characters fall short, Untamed excels in portraying the beauty and danger of Yosemite. The stunning visuals and sound design help to immerse viewers in the environment, making the park itself feel like a character in its own right. The opening scenes, in particular, capture the exhilarating terror of climbing El Capitan, while the serene sounds of nature—like the gurgling of a creek or the roar of a waterfall—highlight the unpredictable and perilous aspects of the wilderness.
Why Is Yosemite the True Star of Untamed?
Yosemite’s majesty serves as a powerful contrast to the darkness that lies beneath its surface. The series hints at a hidden world of criminal activity and transient communities that lurk beneath the park’s picturesque exterior. This portrayal of a beautiful yet dangerous environment is one of the most compelling aspects of the show. In the end, Yosemite feels like the true lead, overshadowing the underdeveloped human characters.
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Conclusion: A Beautiful Yet Flawed Show
Untamed might be worth watching for those who are captivated by the stunning landscapes of Yosemite and enjoy a mystery set in the wilderness. However, for those seeking a fresh take on the crime drama genre, the show falls short. While the natural beauty of the park is masterfully captured, the lack of compelling characters and a predictable plot make it difficult to fully invest in the story. In the end, Untamed shows that sometimes, the setting can be more captivating than the plot itself.
Penulis: Amelia juninarti
