Unique Filming Locations of Dark Winds Series

by Rod
(Salt Lake City)

We recently started watching a new television series … now in its second year … called "Dark Winds". This series is based on the Leaphorn & Chee book series by Tony Hillerman.

This show is set in the 1970s Monument Valley area particularly focusing on the Navajo Nation. The series … like the books … portrays the cultural complexities and unique challenges faced by the Navajo people while also being a gripping crime drama.

At its core, "Dark Winds" follows two Navajo police officers, Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee, as they navigate a variety of crimes and mysteries. Set against the rich backdrop of the Navajo culture and traditions as well as the landscapes of the Monument Valley area, the storylines are definitely enhanced by the locale.

My wife and I have gotten hooked on the series as she read most of the original books. Robert Redford and George R.R. Martin (Games of Thrones) are executive producers of this series.

Some of the supernatural and “spiritual” aspects of the show leave the hair on the back of your neck on end but, if you like learning more about the Navajo culture along with the crime drama aspect, I highly recommend it.

The photography and scenery of the Monument Valley area are spectacular.