Celebrated for his compelling depictions of nature’s unforgiving truths, Mark L. Smith maintains his grip on audiences with his latest creations, such as the unforgettable The Revenant. He now introduces an exciting new limited series titled American Primeval, with Netflix recently revealing an eye-catching first glimpse of Untamed. This electrifying mystery series reinterprets the marvels and dangers of Yosemite National Park and is scheduled to debut on Thursday, July 17th, with a stellar cast featuring Eric Bana, Sam Neill, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lily Santiago, and Wilson Bethel.
Gear up for an intense six-episode exploration, each episode lasting an hour. The official synopsis hints at:
“A character-driven mystery-thriller that follows Kyle Turner (played by Bana), a special agent for the National Parks Service, as he navigates human regulations amidst the wild terrain. An unexpected death thrusts Turner into a labyrinth of dark secrets concealed within the park—and his own history.”
Let’s take a look at the ensemble cast:
Eric Bana as Kyle Turner: This committed agent of the National Park Service’s Investigative Services Branch (ISB) strives to uphold human legislation in the remote wilderness.
Sam Neill as Paul Souter: Having served as Yosemite’s chief park ranger for many years, Souter is not only a devoted family man; he’s also a loyal ally to Turner. His profound understanding of the park’s bureaucratic complexities and challenges adds a distinctive viewpoint to the series.
Lily Santiago as Naya Vasquez: This vibrant young former LA police officer joins the ranger team alongside her 4-year-old son, Gael. Although she’s new to the vastness of Yosemite, her urban investigative abilities and resolve make her a crucial figure in uncovering a chilling homicide.
Rosemary DeWitt as Jill Bodwin: Turner’s ex-spouse, a former educator and park counselor, remains close to him regardless of their history. Their bond highlights a touching blend of connection and separation that will likely resonate with audiences.
Wilson Bethel as Shane Maguire: A former army ranger, Maguire has adopted the wilderness as his home, living by his own principles and applying his skills in wildlife management.
On the creative front, the skilled Mark L. Smith and Elle Smith serve as showrunners and executive producers, partnered with a talented team including Eric Bana, John Wells, and Erin Jontow, among others.
In a compelling statement to Netflix, Mark L. Smith noted, “Yosemite is frequently viewed as a tranquil paradise, but our aim is to uncover the lurking threats that exist beneath its charm.” Meanwhile, Elle contributed, “We’re eager to reveal the layers of this job, showcasing both the captivating elements of the park and its hidden dangers.”
