TV Show review
Review basis: 4 seasons, 28 episodes · through April 5, 2026
June 12, 2022 · TV-MA · Returning Series
Woke Score
Lower is better
Review
Dark Winds follows two Navajo Tribal Police officers solving murder cases on the reservation in the 1970s. The officers deal with crime, personal trauma, and traditional beliefs while working with the FBI. The show uses a mostly Native American cast and marketing that focuses on authentic Navajo culture and Indigenous storytelling. Cultural traditions and community life receive visible emphasis across episodes.
Breakdown
These are the editorial factors and ratings behind our score for Dark Winds.
Woke representation / casting
Mostly Native American actors fill lead and supporting roles that match the Navajo reservation premise. Marketing and interviews stress Indigenous voices and authentic representation.
Woke political dialogue
Little explicit activist or ideological dialogue appears. Stories center on investigations, personal trauma, and cultural beliefs.
Identity-driven story themes
Strong focus on Navajo spiritual traditions, family, and community in a 1970s setting. Elements stay tied to plot and source material without modern activist framing.
Western institutional / cultural critique
Shows some tension with FBI agents and certain white outsiders as part of crime stories. No dominant reframing of institutions through current identity politics.
Woke character or canon changes
Production
Not relevant. Adaptations expand on Hillerman's books with added character depth but introduce no identity-driven swaps or ideological reinterpretations.
Anti-woke backlash and complaints
Scattered viewer comments label it woke for Native leads and portrayals of outsiders. Main early pushback concerned cultural accuracy rather than political messaging.
Creator track record context
Graham Roland highlights Chickasaw background in interviews. Robert Redford had a documented record of Native rights and environmental work. Several Native writers emphasize representation in their careers.
