Eric Bana Unravels Yosemite Mystery on Netflix

A New Take on a Classic Genre

Netflix’s “Untamed” offers a fresh take on the crime drama genre, featuring Eric Bana as Kyle Turner, a no-nonsense special agent for the National Parks Service. His job is to investigate the mysterious death of a woman in Yosemite. While the show may not be groundbreaking, it manages to deliver a solid and engaging experience that doesn’t rely on gimmicks.

The series consists of six episodes, which allows it to tell its story without dragging. In an era where many shows try to break the mold, “Untamed” embraces a more traditional approach, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It might not have the wild twists or bold innovations of other shows, but it provides a satisfying viewing experience that feels like a classic television offering.

The Storyline and Characters

The series opens with two climbers ascending El Capitan, a vertical rock face. Suddenly, a woman's lifeless body comes hurtling past them, nearly causing a disaster. This incident becomes the central mystery that drives the plot forward. When Bana’s character, Kyle Turner, arrives at the summit, he is met with a mix of envy and annoyance from a park ranger who quips, “Here comes Gary Cooper.”

Turner is a complex character, haunted by personal tragedies including a broken marriage, the loss of his son, and a struggle with alcohol. His demeanor is serious, and even those around him notice that he seems extra serious. This trait makes him both relatable and intriguing. His assigned ranger, a rookie, is because Turner has a habit of pushing people away with his stubbornness and insistence on doing things his way.

The show also introduces an Indigenous character, who is only connected to Turner due to their unique friendship. These tropes, while common, are handled with care and respect, avoiding the pitfalls of cliché. The characters feel real and well-developed, thanks in part to Bana’s performance, which avoids over-explaining or dramatizing Turner’s issues.

Supporting Cast and Setting

Lily Santiago plays Naya Vasquez, an inexperienced park ranger who is paired with Turner. She is from the city and initially reluctant to embrace the rugged lifestyle, but she eventually comes around. Sam Neill and Rosemarie DeWitt round out the cast, playing a seasoned head park ranger and Turner’s ex-wife, respectively.

The setting of the show, Yosemite, is a key element. The wide open spaces and occasional appearances of wildlife add to the visual appeal. Although the show was filmed in British Columbia rather than California, the scenery is just as picturesque. The park rangers wear unflattering uniforms, but Turner stands out with his casual style—jeans and a sand-colored work shirt with rolled-up sleeves.

Unique Approach to Character Development

What sets “Untamed” apart is its approach to character development. Unlike other shows that might focus on the physical appeal of their male lead, “Untamed” takes a different route. Instead of showcasing shirtless scenes early on, the show highlights the strength and presence of Bana’s character through his actions and demeanor.

Hollywood often overlooks the appeal of a strong, well-defined physique, and “Untamed” is a refreshing change. The show’s subtitle could easily be “Untamed: Eric Bana’s Forearms,” highlighting the subtle but effective way the show builds its character.

Overall, “Untamed” is a well-crafted series that delivers a compelling narrative without relying on overused tropes. It may not be the most innovative show, but it proves that sometimes, a straightforward approach can be just as effective.