There’s a 100%-Rated Western Mystery Thriller You’ve Been Missing Out On, and Season 3 Has Just Arrived
If you're a fan of Westerns, mystery thrillers, and captivating storytelling, you might end up absolutely in love with this series.
Dark Winds is a compelling show that holds an impressive 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, but that's only one reason to tune in. The series seems to be a complex twist on many genres. To sum it up, it's a kind of psychological mystery western noir thriller. Pretty impressive, right?
Created by Graham Roland and based on the Leaphorn & Chee novel series by Tony Hillerman, the show premiered on AMC and AMC+ in 2022. The second season came out one year after that, and the first episode of season 3 just premiered recently, on March 9.
What Is Dark Winds About?
Set in the rugged landscapes of 1970s New Mexico, Dark Winds follows two Navajo police officers, Joe Leaphorn, played by Zahn McClarnon, and Jim Chee, played by Kiowa Gordon, as they navigate the complexities of crime, century-old traditions and, of course, personal struggles.
What’s interesting is that their cases usually intertwine with the rich culture and spiritual practices of the Navajo people, and that adds another layer of depth to each episode and to the character development in particular.
As we mentioned before, the show is a mix of everything, and that’s what makes it a standout. Its ability to integrate mystery with the Western genre is just next level. The series’ slow-burn storytelling style allows the audience to immerse themselves in the setting: the beautiful desert landscapes, the haunting music, and the ever-present tension that builds with every episode.
Dark Winds isn’t your typical detective show, but is a cultural journey that offers insights into Navajo traditions and worldviews, all while keeping you hooked with an intriguing mystery at the heart of the plot.
What also makes it a must watch is the perfect chemistry between McClarnon and Gordon. Both actors bring their best to the show, making their characters believable and even relatable. The evolving partnership between the two officers is at the heart of the series, and as the show progresses, their personal growth becomes just as important as the cases they solve.
Where to Stream Dark Winds?
The first and second seasons of the show are now available to stream on Netflix. Season 3 is currently streaming on AMC.
