AMC’s gripping series, Dark Winds, has created a buzz with its compelling third season. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s Navajo Nation, the show intricately weaves together the narratives of tribal police officers as they tackle a series of interconnected crimes. While the series draws inspiration from Tony Hillerman’s Leaphorn and Chee book series, it has developed its unique storytelling style that diverges from the source material.
In the current season, viewers follow the journey of main characters Joe Leaphorn, Jim Chee, and Bernadette Manuelito, who find themselves separated due to Bernadette’s new job. However, hints from episode three suggest that their paths may soon intersect again. Like its predecessors, this season captivates audiences with a gradual unraveling of the central crime plot. Although fans eagerly await new episodes, there are numerous other crime dramas available for viewing.
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Lawmen: Bass Reeves (2023)
The Miniseries Can Be Found On Paramount+
2023’s Lawmen: Bass Reeves is a standout miniseries that has revitalized the Western genre. Starring David Oyelowo as Bass Reeves, this show reflects the life of a remarkable historical figure who was the first Black Deputy U.S. Marshal west of the Mississippi, capturing more than 3,000 criminals during his service. His proficiency in multiple Native American languages facilitated communication across the diverse regions he patrolled.
This Taylor Sheridan production has received acclaim for its outstanding performances and dynamic direction, showcasing thrilling Western shoot-outs as well as the rich inner lives of its characters. The series’ depth and complexity make it a fitting recommendation for fans of Dark Winds.
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Fargo
The Well-Known Crime Anthology Series Is Available On Hulu
Fargo remains a hallmark of the crime genre, notable for its anthology format that guarantees a fresh storyline and new characters each season. Maintaining the dark comedic tone of the 1996 Coen brothers film, its narrative intricacies involve surprising character intersections that escalate into bizarre and often violent situations.
With numerous accolades to its name, each of its five seasons has merited critical acclaim. Notably, Zahn McClarnon, who plays Joe Leaphorn in Dark Winds, also features prominently as a recurring character in the second season of Fargo. This connection offers viewers an additional reason to enjoy both series.
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Joe Pickett
The Modern Western Is Available On Paramount+
Joe Pickett shares thematic similarities with Dark Winds, as it combines stunning visuals with thrilling Western crime narratives. Set against the backdrop of Wyoming, this series follows a game warden whose life becomes increasingly complicated as he navigates regional lawlessness and personal commitments.
While the show delves deep into the challenges of environmental preservation and family dynamics, its complex characters portray the moral dilemmas inherent in their actions. Despite its 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Joe Pickett was unfortunately canceled after just two seasons, yet fans can revel in the 25-novel series by author C.J. Box that inspired it.
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True Detective
The Crime Show Can Be Found On Max
For viewers captivated by the serious tone of Dark Winds, HBO’s True Detective serves as a remarkable exploration of crime and human relationships. Masterfully shot with exceptional performances, this anthology series dives deeply into the psyche of its characters, often revealing the darkness that lurks within them—both in criminals and investigators alike.
With multiple awards, including six Emmy Awards, the series has showcased remarkable talent, featuring stars such as Matthew McConaughey and Jodie Foster in different seasons. While season one is frequently celebrated as the best, every installment offers a memorable viewing experience worth exploring.
4
Justified
The Series Is Currently Streaming On Hulu
In Justified, Timothy Olyphant portrays Raylan Givens, a Deputy U.S. Marshal whose return to his Kentucky hometown sets the stage for complex criminal investigations that frequently tap into the personal. Like Jim Chee in Dark Winds, Givens embodies a character grappling with his past while unearthing the entangled relations within the crime families of his community.
Acclaimed as a neo-Western, Justified offers not just thrilling police work but a nuanced portrayal of its protagonist’s emotional journey, boasting consistently high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes. This exploration of the personal stakes involved in law enforcement ties back to similar themes presented in Dark Winds.
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Outer Range
The Prime Video Series Blends Western And Sci-Fi
Unlike other shows mentioned, Outer Range intriguingly incorporates elements of science fiction into its Western narrative. Set in Wyoming, it centers on rancher Royal Abbott and his family as they deal with typical issues like land disputes and family strife, compounded by the sudden appearance of a mysterious black hole on their property.
Despite its premature cancellation after two seasons, the series garnered commendations for its innovative blend of genres and the suspenseful storytelling that compels viewers to speculate about character fates much like Dark Winds.
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The Red Road
The AMC+ Show Stars Familiar Faces
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The Red Road intertwines the lives of Harold Jensen, a New York City police officer, and Phillip Kopus, a member of the Ramapough Lenape Nation involved in crime. Exploring the tension surrounding local land use and environmental issues, the series is a gripping portrayal of desperation and conflict.
Though it didn’t achieve widespread acclaim upon airing, actors Zahn McClarnon and Kiowa Gordon bring compelling performances that resonate strongly with fans of Dark Winds. This series deserves a spot on the watchlist for those who appreciate intense drama.
1
Longmire
The Popular Western Crime Series Is On Paramount+
Longmire epitomizes the modern Western crime series, making it a natural companion to Dark Winds. Centered around Walt Longmire, the resilient sheriff of a small Wyoming town, the series artfully explores relationships between state, tribal, and federal law enforcement that often clash.
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Beyond its focus on criminal investigations, Longmire delves into the personal trials of Walt, particularly his grief over his wife’s passing. With strong performances, including another dynamic role for Zahn McClarnon as Police Chief Mathias, the six-season series has received favorable reviews from both critics and audiences, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the genre.