Grief meets grit in 'Untamed', a taut and emotional thriller helmed by Eric Bana

Eric Bana's absence from the TV landscape is over; he’s back, helming Netflix’s mystery thriller “Untamed”.

Through his role as Kyle Turner, a National Park Service Investigative Services Branch (ISB) special agent at Yosemite National Park, he proves why he is revered as one of Hollywood’s finest actors. 

The six-part series takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster with its characters navigating a delicate balancing act between their personal demons and professional responsibilities.

Set in Yosemite National Park, it homes in on the investigators looking into a murder, with their work cut out for them as they face political pressure within their ranks.

The series opens with Kyle enjoying some downtime with his son Caleb until it is cut short by a call about a young woman’s body being found. 

Rushing to the scene, Kyle’s examination of the area and the body leads him to believe there was foul play involved, much to the frustration of the park’s rangers, who believe that she fell to her death after being attacked by an animal. 

However, Kyle is determined to prove that the case is anything but cut-and-dried, and he gets rookie ranger Naya Vasquez (Lily Santiago) to assist him. 

A single mother, looking to put down new roots by escaping her abusive ex, Naya welcomes the opportunity. 

The writers cement the character's strength and vulnerability early on.

It is quickly established that Caleb isn’t alive and that Kyle, since his son’s passing six years ago, has been turning to the bottle to numb his pain. 

His mentor and friend, Paul Souter (Sam Neill), who is the chief park ranger, has shielded him from any flak during this time. 

His soft spot for Kyle doesn’t go unnoticed by the other staff members, especially Lawrence Hamilton (Joe Holt), the park superintendent, who wants the case put to bed to avoid further public damage. 

Kyle’s investigation stirs a hornet’s nest as he tries to find out the victim’s identity and more about her past. It makes a lot of people wary, including some of the squatters in the park who become suspects, and those secretly working for an illegal drug operation, which links to Shane Maguire (Wilson Bethel), a wildlife management officer and former army ranger. 

The rugged yet peaceful backdrop of the series exemplifies the atmosphere and mood of the series. 

Kyle’s unruly attitude is underpinned by honourable intentions. The case, in a strange way, saves him from himself. 

His ex-wife, Jill Bodwin (Rosemarie DeWitt), is also grappling with the loss of their son and is consumed by guilt over a rash decision she made several years ago.

Neill’s character brings calm to the chaos. His composed and protective nature is endearing.

Fans of the sci-fi “Le Brea” will recall Santiago, who starred in all three seasons. An industry newcomer, she holds her own against Bana, who is truly a marvel to watch. 

Although his character, Kyle, appears to be a solitary and unpleasant individual, he acts quite differently with Naya. He displays a protective side towards her, which is connected to her being a single mother.

The writers have done well in developing the characters while maintaining a sense of mystery throughout the series. 

“Untamed” is a raw and emotional journey through family, love, grief and duty -  all seen through the complicated lens of violence, heartache and regret.

Rating: *** solid and enjoyable, though not groundbreaking.

Below are worthy offerings in a similar vein:

“The Waterfront”

In this Netflix crime drama, which gives you Ozark vibes, the prominent Buckley family find their lives derailed by their attempts to save their North Carolina fishing empire and restaurant from shutting down. 

Their questionable associations with corrupt officials and a ruthless drug crime boss upend their lives. The stellar cast, compelling script and deft direction will leave you hooked from start to finish.  

“Mare of Easttown”

This Showmax whodunit centres on a detective from Pennsylvania, who tries her best to prevent her life from falling apart while investigating a mysterious murder. This series is helmed by Kate Winslet, delivering a compelling performance as the fallible lead.