Eric Bana Stars in ‘Untamed,’ a Brutal Thriller Set in Yosemite National Park — Is it Worth the Ride?

Eric Bana takes center stage in Untamed, a thriller set in the vast and rugged beauty of Yosemite National Park. As Kyle Turner, a no-nonsense ISB Special Agent, Bana brings to life a character defined by his rugged demeanor and preference for silence over conversation, and horses over motorized vehicles. While Untamed delivers a straightforward and engaging experience, it’s also a throwback to 1990s-era thrillers, offering a nostalgic sense of simplicity and an unapologetically traditional approach to crime-solving.

Though set in modern times, Untamed feels strangely retro, not just because of Turner’s old-fashioned methods but also due to its limited engagement with modern technology. A smartphone subplot doesn’t even make an appearance until close to the end, reflecting the series’ commitment to an uncomplicated, straightforward approach. Even though park rangers have become a political hot topic in the U.S., national politics don’t feature in the storyline, allowing the film to remain focused on the raw drama unfolding in Yosemite. For some, this makes Untamed a refreshing change of pace, offering an undemanding and easy-to-follow watch. However, viewers seeking depth or contemporary relevance might find the show lacking.

A Rugged Detective in the Wilderness

Turner, though technically not a park ranger, is often mistaken for one, wearing the signature green uniform while carrying out his duties as an agent of the Interior Services Bureau (ISB). His gruff, blunt attitude and disregard for the rules only add to his persona as a rugged and unconventional detective. He’s haunted by a past tragedy, his personal life is a mess, and his relationships are poor—but when it comes to solving a case, Turner is exceptional. His steely determination and sharp skills in the wilderness allow him to navigate the vast, 300,000 hectares of Yosemite with an ease that seems almost supernatural. He can locate individual strands of hair or tiny beads in the wilderness, an almost mythic skill that contrasts with the viewer’s own struggle to locate their keys in the house.

This exaggerated ability to connect with nature and find clues in the wilderness is part of Untamed’s charm, but it also offers a bit of fantasy. Turner’s intimate knowledge of the natural world gives him an edge over others, and the show leans into this mythical version of a detective in the wild. His affinity for the outdoors isn’t just a quirk; it’s an integral part of his character and the investigation.

The Case and the Conspiracy Unfold

The plot kicks off with a dramatic event: a pair of climbers on El Capitan witness the body of a young woman falling from the summit, landing tangled in their ropes. Was she the victim of an animal attack, or does something more sinister lurk beneath the surface? As Turner investigates, he uncovers clues that suggest the woman’s death is part of a larger conspiracy—a criminal underworld hiding beneath the serene exterior of Yosemite’s tourist hotspots. Turner’s no-nonsense approach sees him ignoring warnings about dangerous weather conditions, instead choosing to examine the body at the summit. His careful attention to details like the foliage the woman was holding and the absence of animal tracks pushes him further into an investigation that extends beyond a simple case-of-the-week structure.

While the initial mystery seems isolated, Untamed reveals layers of corruption and danger that threaten everything Turner holds dear. As the case unravels, it begins to echo the feel of True Detective—especially in its early seasons. Turner’s dark past and his struggles with personal demons mirror the atmosphere of rural noir, with both the physical and psychological wilderness being explored.

A Surprisingly Sincere, Yet Far-Fetched Ride

Though Untamed presents itself as a rural noir with dark undertones, it never strays too far from its simple, linear storytelling. It’s the type of show that doesn’t make you work too hard, offering a straightforward plot without too many complexities. The dialogue, at times, borders on the absurd, with Turner delivering lines like, “This is not LA. Things happen different out here” or “You can’t spell wilderness without wild,” highlighting its old-school approach. The show’s pacing is deliberate, with moments of introspection and flashbacks to Turner’s tragic past, adding layers to his character without getting bogged down by overly intricate plots.

His young sidekick, Vasquez (played by Lily Santiago), brings a much-needed fresh dynamic to the show. She’s a former inner-city LA cop running from her own issues, and she serves as the perfect foil to Turner’s solitary and intense character. Together, they form an unlikely team, but their relationship lacks much of the emotional depth that might elevate the show into something truly memorable.

Conclusion: A Straightforward, Undemanding Watch

Untamed may not be revolutionary in terms of storytelling or character development, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a solid, no-frills thriller set against the stunning backdrop of Yosemite. For fans of the genre who appreciate simplicity, rugged heroism, and a touch of nostalgia, the series offers an engaging watch. However, those looking for more depth, modern relevance, or a twist on the formula might find themselves disappointed. It’s a safe, dependable ride—perhaps not groundbreaking, but a perfect fit for those who enjoy uncomplicated thrillers where the wilderness itself becomes a character.