Untamed – Nature's Majesty Meets Murder Mystery in Yosemite
Netflix’s limited drama Untamed, released July 17, 2025, blends murder mystery, psychological complexity, and stunning natural scenery into a tightly woven six-episode storyline. Set against the remote wilderness of Yosemite National Park—but filmed in the scenic backcountry of British Columbia—the series stars Eric Bana as Special Agent Kyle Turner, who must navigate both emotional trauma and hidden danger in search of truth.
Turner is dispatched to investigate the death of a young unidentified woman found at the base of El Capitan. Partnering with rookie Ranger Naya Vasquez (played by Lily Santiago), he begins to trace the victim’s hidden connections to Park Service Chief Paul Souter, portrayed with gravitas by Sam Neill. As secrets emerge, the mystery expands into a complex web involving drug smuggling, family betrayal, and historical cover-ups. The series also delves into deeply personal arcs, including Turner’s heartbreaking grief over the loss of his son and the personal fracture that followed.
What sets Untamed apart is its interplay of character-driven emotional stakes and the raw majesty of Yosemite’s landscape. Critics have praised its immersive cinematography, capturing dramatic cliffs, ancient forests, and serene valleys. One reviewer described it as evocative of a live‑action Pocahontas, where the natural world becomes a silent but powerful narrative force. The physical environment—aside from a few wildlife inaccuracies criticized by real yosemite experts—informs mood, tension, and the sense of isolation Turner experiences.
Critically, the series received generally favorable reviews, with around 79% approval from critics. The Guardian and several entertainment outlets cited the breathtaking backdrop and solid performances as key strengths, while noting the main mystery sometimes adheres to predictable thriller tropes. Audience reception was similarly positive, with average scores reflecting appreciation for the pacing and visual storytelling.
Behind the scenes, Eric Bana discussed the challenges and emotional weight of filming in remote wilderness. He revealed his one disappointment was never seeing a bear while shooting, but credited the isolated, location shoot for grounding his performance and helping him inhabit Turner’s burden of unresolved grief and professional pressure.
The miniseries also sparked conversation among outdoor experts, who emphasized that much of the production took place in British Columbia—not Yosemite—and noted criticize over display of local wildlife and park ranger operations. Fans appreciated the atmosphere but questioned some details of ranger procedures and gear realism.
Despite these critiques, Untamed made a strong impression upon release, drawing comparisons with other crime dramas like Broadchurch and True Detective. Its atmospheric storytelling, deliberate pacing, and focus on internal character conflict mark it as a standout among summer thrillers. The cast—centered around Bana, Neill, Santiago, and Rosemarie DeWitt—bring professionalism and emotional intensity to roles shaped by grief, duty, and crisis.
By the end of its self-contained arc, Untamed delivers emotional resolution, psychological insight, and a visual journey through wilderness terror and tranquility. While Netflix hasn’t confirmed additional seasons, the show stands as a striking example of contemporary limited-series storytelling, balancing nature’s awe with human darkness. For viewers craving a mysterious drama wrapped in elemental beauty and emotional resonance, Untamed offers a singular—and unforgettable—venture into the wild.
