Netflix’s Untamed: A Gritty Crime Drama Blending Yellowst

On July 17, 2025, Netflix unveiled Untamed, a riveting new crime drama that’s already capturing attention with its potent mix of raw tension and enigmatic storytelling. Starring Eric Bana in his first major television role in seven years, this six-episode limited series channels the rugged intensity of Yellowstone and the haunting depth of True Detective. With an impressive 83% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes and a stellar cast, Untamed dives into small-town secrets, moral ambiguity, and a detective’s perilous obsession, making it a standout in Netflix’s 2025 lineup.

Eric Bana’s Triumphant Return

Eric Bana leads Untamed as Kyle Turner, a federal agent with the National Park Service’s Investigative Services Branch, marking his return to television since 2018’s Dirty John. Known for films like Troy and The Dry, Bana brings a brooding intensity to Turner, a man haunted by personal tragedy. The cast is bolstered by heavyweights like Sam Neill as chief ranger Paul Souter, Rosemarie DeWitt as Turner’s ex-wife Jill, and Wilson Bethel as a shadowy park officer. Rising star Lily Santiago shines as rookie ranger Naya Vasquez, adding fresh energy to the ensemble.

Untamed has garnered early praise, with critics lauding its atmospheric storytelling and strong performances. Its Rotten Tomatoes debut at 83%, based on 23 reviews, signals a promising start, though ScreenRant’s 4/10 score called it “predictable” while noting its potential as a condensed film. As a miniseries, Untamed benefits from its concise six-episode run, offering a bingeable experience that wraps up neatly without overstaying its welcome.

A Slow-Burn Thriller in Yosemite

Set in the sprawling wilderness of Yosemite National Park—though filmed in Vancouver—Untamed follows Kyle Turner as he investigates a brutal murder that unearths decades of crime and corruption within the park. Partnered with newcomer Naya Vasquez, Turner navigates a web of deceit that intertwines with his personal grief over his son’s death years earlier, a loss that strains his relationship with Jill. The series, co-created by Mark L. Smith (The Revenant, American Primeval) and Elle Smith, weaves a narrative rich with twists and emotional depth.

The show’s tone echoes True Detective’s introspective mystery, with Turner’s obsession driving the story into dark, psychological territory. Its visual grandeur, capturing Yosemite’s untamed beauty, recalls Yellowstone’s sweeping landscapes, amplifying the stakes of its small-town secrets. From drug trafficking to hidden betrayals, Untamed keeps viewers guessing, with each episode peeling back layers of intrigue.

Critical Reception and Context

Untamed’s 83% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects strong early reviews, though its freshness may shift as more critiques emerge. Critics praise Bana’s vulnerable yet commanding performance, noting his ability to anchor the series’ emotional core. The chemistry between Bana and Santiago, laced with occasional humor, adds levity to the grim narrative. However, some, like ScreenRant, argue the show leans on familiar crime drama tropes, lacking the innovation of genre giants like True Detective.

Mark L. Smith’s previous Netflix venture, American Primeval, scored 72% on Rotten Tomatoes but earned an 87% audience score, suggesting Untamed could follow a similar trajectory with viewers. Smith’s knack for crafting visceral stories, seen in films like Twisters and The Revenant, infuses Untamed with a raw edge, though its reliance on slow-burn pacing may test impatient audiences. The series’ satisfying conclusion, designed without sequel bait, enhances its appeal as a self-contained thriller.

What Sets Untamed Apart

Untamed distinguishes itself through its unique setting and character-driven storytelling. Yosemite’s wilderness serves as more than a backdrop—it’s a character in itself, with its unpredictable dangers heightening the drama. Unlike urban crime dramas, the park’s isolated community, from rangers to off-grid dwellers, creates a microcosm of tension and secrets. This fresh perspective, paired with the show’s exploration of moral gray zones, makes it a compelling addition to the genre.

The dynamic between Turner and Vasquez is a highlight, blending mentorship with mutual growth. Santiago’s portrayal of a city-bred ranger adapting to the wilds injects relatability, while Bana’s Turner grapples with guilt and duty. Supporting performances, particularly Neill’s steady presence and DeWitt’s nuanced grief, deepen the narrative, ensuring emotional stakes match the plot’s twists.

A Binge-Worthy Contender

As a miniseries, Untamed offers a concise yet immersive experience, perfect for a weekend binge. Its six episodes deliver a complete story, avoiding the drawn-out arcs of longer shows like Yellowstone or MobLand. While it may not reinvent the crime drama, its gripping mysteries and strong cast make it a worthwhile watch. The Rotten Tomatoes score suggests potential for “Certified Fresh” status, a testament to its early impact.

For fans of True Detective’s brooding intensity or Yellowstone’s rugged drama, Untamed strikes a balance between the two. Its focus on character vulnerabilities—Turner’s haunted past, Vasquez’s rookie struggles—grounds the high-stakes plot, ensuring viewers stay invested. The park’s untamed setting, coupled with unpredictable twists, keeps the tension high, proving there’s still room for surprises in the genre.

Looking Ahead

Untamed arrives as Netflix continues to dominate the streaming landscape with bold originals. While it faces stiff competition from recent hits like MobLand, its unique setting and stellar performances give it an edge. Bana’s return to television, paired with Smith’s proven storytelling, positions Untamed as a dark horse in 2025’s crowded field. As audience scores roll in, the series could solidify its place as a fan favorite.

For those craving a crime thriller that blends heart-pounding mystery with raw emotion, Untamed delivers. Available now on Netflix, it’s a six-episode journey into the wilds of Yosemite and the shadows of human nature. Dive in and discover why critics and fans alike are captivated by this slow-burn gem—just don’t expect to predict its every turn.