Untamed is a dark and suspenseful six-episode murder mystery against the backdrop of Yosemite National Park. The series, which is the #1 series on Netflix, stars Eric Bana as Kyle Turner, investigative services branch special agent and Lily Santiago as Naya Vasquez, a rookie ranger. The series, which was just renewed for a second season, plays out like a modern-day “ring around the rosie” where an innocent setting masks a sinister truth. Similarly to the childhood rhyme, “ashes, ashes, we all fall down,” it feels quite fitting.
Untamed focuses on what happens when nature sees everything, yet says nothing. From the very first episode, the show builds tension not just through characters, but through the forest. Every frame is well-executed, from the towering trees to black bears popping in scenes to the isolated cabins. Each frame creates stillness that’s eerie and questionable, rather than placid.
The camera often stays still in scenes where characters are moving, creating the notion that someone—or something—is watching. The cinematography is unique, creating a lens for nature to be a haven but also a victim; the camera often frames wide as characters are shown small, almost being swallowed by the acres of forest around them. At other times, tight framing with blurred backgrounds also reflects the lack of breath even in the forest, emphasizing how claustrophobic the environment is. In the forest, daylight feels like comfort, but dusk says otherwise.
In certain scenes, the absence of music lets the sounds have their moment. Birds chirp, wind swooshes, and branches crack, but viewers see nothing. Seeing nothing creates the sound element that gives the forest presence. These sounds build suspense not with jump scares but with quiet paranoia. This duality is what makes viewers of Untamed uneasy.
Over time, the series moves like an overcast cloud; slow. For some, this rhythm feels like being pulled into a trance. For others, like myself, it may test patience, especially in episodes that feel like the plot doesn’t progress. The show’s limited series format, however, prevents the show from dragging on for too long, but some episodes focus on mood rather than pacing, leaving some viewers wanting quick answers.
As for characters, Eric Bana delivers a performance that’s raw and delicate—his character deals with pain that lingers, which is usually more visual in his face, rather than in words. Santiago balances him with good energy and layered optimism, making their dynamic contrast. Kyle Turner is withdrawn and to himself; Naya Vasquez is more open, concealing her fear. As the story progresses, you see how their roles start to bend and how trauma teaches both of them. They don’t just uncover a case; they uncover things in each other.
Untamed doesn’t rush to impress—it lingers, unsettles, and stays with you long after the credits roll.
