'Masterpiece' series ranked 'best on Netflix in October' that viewers are binge watching

Netflix viewers have been left binge watching a "suspenseful" and "gripping" psychological thriller. Review website Rotten Tomatoes has recently named the best 100 Netflix series to watch right now, with Dark Winds topping the list.

The critically-acclaimed series, which is based on the Leaphorn and Chee novel series by Tony Hillerman, has a perfect 100% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers have praised its authentic storytelling and strong acting performances. The mostly Native American cast is led by Zahn McClarnon, Kiowa Gordon, Jessica Matten and Deanna Allison.

Dark Winds, set in 1971 on a remote outpost near Monument Valley in the American Southwest during the 1970s, was created by Graham Roland. There are a total of three series available to watch on Netflix, consisting of six, six and eight episodes respectively.

The story follows Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn of the Tribal Police as he digs to the bottom of a number of unrelated crimes. However, as he is joined by new deputy, Jimmy Chee, each crime exposes the wounds of their past and they are forced to battle the forces of evil.

The first episode of the first season, 'Monster Slayer, was awarded an Outstanding Fiction Television Drama by the Western Heritage Awards in 2023. The same year, the whole series won a number of Vision Awards from the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC), including Best Drama and Best Performance - Zahn McClarnon.

The series, ranked as one of the best TV shows since its release by critics, was lauded for its authentic storytelling and setting. The plot has been described as suspenseful whilst also being able to developing complex characters.

On IMDb, a number of viewers have left glowing reviews of the series. Many commented on the gripping storyline and quality acting.

Trademarcdesigns said: "Well written, well acted, well paced. Two episodes in and I'm hooked. So far there are three plots to follow - the murders of two reservation residents, a high-profile armored car robbery using a helicopter, and a possible conspiracy to blow up a mining operation.

"And then there's spooky stuff... It sounds like a lot going on, but because the writing is so good, it's very easy to follow the various intersecting plot lines."

Comadavies added: "I really loved the 2 seasons of this show. Suspenseful, griping storyline and great acting." F_brd wrote: "I liked this so much, I couldn't stop watching it, I Binged watched it all."

Isreedas put: "Dark Winds is an exceptional TV series that masterfully blends elements of noir, thriller, and even sci-fi, creating a gripping and immersive experience."