“Dark Winds” tells Diné stories from their perspective

Set on the Navajo Nation, based on author Tony Hillerman’s novel series “Leaphorn and Chee,” “Dark Winds” foregrounds investigations into murders and mayhem by Tribal Policeman, Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn, his deputy Jim Chee, and Sergeant Bernadette Manuelito. The two seasons, six episodes each, immerse viewers in the reservation near Monument Valley with events straddling forensic and spiritual realms.

Friends and family generate emotional and physical conflicts as the personal and professional intertwine. As our surrogates, outsiders intrude, most often ignorant of different customs and beliefs or attempting to exploit the Diné. In this way, “Dark Winds” educates as it entertains, delving into a unique culture and environment. Set in the 1970s, these Navajo Tribal Police investigate murders and the disappearance of a Mormon tourist family and more, while also balancing domestic lives. In that regard, Leaphorn’s wife Emma, a nurse, adds a strong character who factors into a subplot with a pregnant teenager.

Many unexpected developments impart complex and rich details. Used-car dealer Dan DeMarco presents a deceptive front for his missionary work. The extremist Buffalo Society’s members complicate tribal life and intimidate many. Rogue FBI agent Leland Whitover schemes and deceives everyone in his orbit. Water supplies are endangered and land at stake. This barely scratches the surface of intricate scenarios.

The performances blend beautifully into a suspenseful and engaging series. They’re led by Zahn McClarnon (Officer Big in “Reservation Dogs”) as Joe Leaphorn, Kiowa Gordon as Jim Chee, Jessica Matten as Bernadette Manuelito, with guest actors Noah Emmerich, Rainn Wilson, Jeremiah Bitsui, and John Diehl. Technically, cinematographer Paul Elliott gives the dusty, expansive Navajo territory a unique identity. Director of seven episodes, director Chris Eyre (Cheyenne/Arapaho) masterfully ramps up suspense and paces events with clarity.

In the course of the series, criticism has singled out missteps in language and artistic license. The series’ creator Graham Roland (Chickasaw) and the directors, actors, and crew have responsibly listened to and worked to improve representation. Through a writers room of all Diné, authenticity is now impressively compelling. In both seasons, I felt an immersion in an emphatically different mindset and environment. This is as welcome as it is praiseworthy. The third season of “Dark Winds” is in production. In English and Navajo, the first two seasons stream now on AMC+. Check listings.