Why you should watch the George R.R. Martin-produced show Dark Winds, now on Netflix

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for immersive storytelling and a deep appreciation for authentic cultural representation, I can wholeheartedly recommend “Dark Winds” to fellow enthusiasts. Having grown up on the mesas of New Mexico myself, I found the show’s setting strikingly familiar yet intriguing, as it delved into the less-explored corners of the American Southwest.

Due to its availability on Netflix, the AMC series “Dark Winds” is reaching a broader viewership, allowing viewers to stream both seasons currently available. Notably, George R.R. Martin and Robert Redford serve as the show’s leading executive producers, while it is adapted from the books of the late author Tony Hillerman.

The story unfolds within the Navajo Nation, which spans across Arizona and New Mexico, during the 1970s. The primary perspective from which we learn this tale belongs to a Native American police lieutenant named Joe Leaphorn.

Game of Thrones creator George R.R. Martin was smart to attach his name to Dark Winds

In contrast to the numerous crime thrillers flooding TV and streaming platforms, Dark Winds stands out for several reasons. Unlike many productions, its setting is not commonly seen on screen. The series was filmed on location in Arizona, New Mexico, and southern Utah, which lends an air of authenticity to the tales it seeks to convey.

In the television series “Dark Winds,” as found in Tony Hillerman’s “Leaphorn and Chee” books, we delve deeply into the vibrant Diné (Navajo) community. The narratives are steeped in Navajo customs, mythology, and spirituality, encompassing their mystical, supernatural aspects as well as their unique culture, even touching upon witchcraft.

Although Martin serves as an executive producer, this isn’t a fantasy show in the traditional sense. The occult practices depicted aren’t like the magic found in Harry Potter or other commercial genres. Instead, they are rooted in the ancient beliefs of the Navajo tribe that have evolved over centuries.

The show has a somber, gritty atmosphere, and the actors, with Zahn McClarnon taking the lead, are exceptional. McClarnon, who’s famed for his role as Akecheta in HBO’s Westworld, is particularly notable. He’s ably assisted by Kiowa Gordon portraying Jim Chee and Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito.

Notable actors like Rainn Wilson and Jeri Ryan made appearances in seasons 1 and 2, along with six-decade acting veteran A Martinez, who takes on a significant part.

In addition to providing thrilling action sequences, “Dark Winds” enlightens viewers about the profound Diné culture, showcasing its deep-rooted traditions. The series, spanning six episodes, maintains a brisk pace and delivers compelling character progression. Regrettably, the series’ length might be considered too short by some, but it is sufficient to effectively unfold the storylines and conclude the season’s case.

As a gaming enthusiast, I’m here to recommend a show that caters to a wide range of viewers, but if you’re into psychological crime thrillers, ‘Dark Winds’ should be your top priority. Unfortunately, its stay on Netflix isn’t guaranteed due to the temporary nature of some AMC shows on the platform. So, don’t delay and miss out on this one; catch it while you can!

Martin clearly had a hand in this project, being an avid fan of the Leaphorn and Chee series. We’re grateful he chose to use his influence to help produce the show. The series was certainly long due for adaptation, and luckily, Martin and Redford were able to breathe life into these wonderful books while maintaining the tone that Hillerman established.

2024-08-30 22:41

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