Netflix has recently acquired a raft of new content from AMC, offering viewers a diverse range of shows, from the underwhelming (Fear the Walking Dead) to the undeniably excellent. Amongst these newly available titles shines "Dark Winds", a gripping Native American drama that is undoubtedly the best new mystery/crime series on Netflix at present.
"Dark Winds" stars Zahn McClarnon, whose talent has been showcased in series like "Reservation Dogs", as Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn. He plays a tribal police officer tasked with solving disturbing crimes in 1971 on the Navajo Nation, situated near Monument Valley. The series delves into the complexities of the reservation, exposing not only the crimes but also Leaphorn's own troubled past. He is partnered with the new deputy, Jim Chee, who also carries baggage from his youth on the reservation. Together, these men battle the forces of evil, personal demons, and even each other on their pursuit of justice.
Remarkably, both seasons of "Dark Winds" have achieved a perfect 100% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, with season one garnering 36 positive reviews and season two receiving 18. While the audience scores are lower, standing at 72% for season one and a less impressive 53% for season two, "Dark Winds" is a show that demands to be seen and judged for oneself.
Having only experienced season one, I can confidently recommend this series to anyone seeking a compelling new mystery. It's a powerful antidote to the underwhelming offerings of, say, season 4 of "True Detective".
Furthermore, "Dark Winds" is a series worth investing in for the long haul. AMC has confirmed a third season, albeit with a delay, set for release sometime in 2025. Despite its less-than-stellar viewership numbers, the show's low production cost and its current high placement on Netflix's Top 10 list demonstrate its growing appeal.
"Dark Winds" is currently beating out other popular AMC titles on Netflix, including "A Discovery of Witches", "Fear the Walking Dead", and "Mayfair Witches". Notably, "Interview with the Vampire", another AMC series, has also been added to the streaming service, but remains absent from the Top 10, despite its critical acclaim.
Ultimately, "Dark Winds" is a series worthy of its praise. With its gripping narrative, talented cast, and compelling exploration of its setting, it's no surprise that this show has garnered such critical acclaim.
If you're looking for a new mystery series to dive into, "Dark Winds" is an excellent choice. Its perfect score speaks for itself, and its growing popularity on Netflix is a testament to its quality.
