DVD Review: Dark Winds (Season One)

Dark Winds (Season One)
(DVD Dark)

I am a fan of the Longmire television series and am especially impressed with the Native American actors in the film version of the Longmire books by author Craig Johnson. One of the standouts in Longmire is actor Zahn McClarnon who portrays Officer Mathias on the Reservation in mythical Absaroka County. Recently I discovered that McClarnon is currently starring in the series Dark Winds as Lt. Joe Leaphorn in Navajo Nation, New Mexico. The series is based on the Leaphorn, Chee & Manuelito novels by acclaimed author Tony Hillerman (and continued by Tony’s daughter Anne Hillerman following Tony’s death), and produced by author George R.R. Martin and Robert Redford. The mysteries are top-notch and incorporate history, Navajo customs and language, and superb acting from the Native American actors and extras. Shot on location in New Mexico, this is one of the most powerful series I have seen in recent years.

 

Season One looks at events that occurred in 1971 involving conspiracies, murder and cover-ups with the FBI and the Buffalo Society. McClarnon gives an incredibly emotional performance as Joe Leaphorn who is determined to solve the cases of the murders of Navajo people at all costs. I am looking forward to seeing Season Two soon. Nebraskans should be very proud of actor Zahn McClarnon who spent part of his youth in Omaha, graduating from Omaha Central High School. Be sure to watch the bonus film on the making of this series which is included on the second disc.

 

(If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try Longmire. Also, Season Two of Dark Winds is now out on DVD as well. A third season is in pre-production, for airing in late 2024 or 2025.)

 

(Also available in traditional print format from authors Tony Hillerman and then Anne Hillerman.)

 

( Internet Movie Database entry for this film )

 

Recommended by Kim J.
Bennett Martin Public Library — Public Service

 

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