On a journey: Kiowa Gordon brings Jim Chee's self-discovery to life in second season of 'Dark Winds'

Aug. 5—Editor's note: The interview with Kiowa Gordon took place prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike in mid-July.

Kiowa Gordon always remembers what it's like to wake up to children playing.

This time around, he's in the role of uncle, while he's taking some time off.

"It's always a fun way to wake up," he says with a laugh.

Gordon is gearing up to step into the shoes of Jim Chee for the second season of "Dark Winds." The series premiered on July 30 and airs at 7 p.m. on Sundays on AMC and AMC+.

"Dark Winds" season two picks up with Lt. Joe Leaphorn, played by Zahn McClarnon, as he reunites with Jim Chee, played by Gordon, his former deputy turned private eye when their separate cases bring them together in pursuit of the same suspect.

The pair find themselves in the high desert of Navajo Country chasing a killer who's turned his sights on them to protect a secret that rips open old wounds and challenges Leaphorn's moral and professional code.

With the help of Sgt. Bernadette Manuelito, played by Jessica Matten and Valencia County Sheriff Gordo Sena, played by A Martinez, Leaphorn and Chee must thwart their would-be assassin and restore balance not only to their own lives but to the reservation that depends on them.

Gordon says Jim Chee has grown since the first season.

"It's nice to get back and revamp some things," Gordon says. "There's a totally different direction for Jim. I think it's a nice move that we're in the 1970s and now Jim has longer hair. He's figuring himself out. He has a new suit and it's a little more groovy. He does miss the collaborative efforts with Leaphorn, and that shows this season."

Gordon says Chee is on his own journey during the new season.

"It's because of the loss of the collaborative effort, Jim is looking for a change," Gordon says. "During the first season, he was gone from his culture. Jim is on a journey of rediscovery and unlearning some of the bad habits that he gained. He's using his whole Navajo persona this season."

Gordon was happy to see Chee dive back into his Navajo heritage.

"He's serving his greater community with each case as he earns the money he needs to survive and be a Navajo man on the Navajo reservation. He's seeing the needs of the community and learning how to help them."

According to the New Mexico Film Office, principal photography began in November 2022 and continued through February 2023. The series is directed by Chris Eyre and produced by Robert Redford, George R.R. Martin and Vince Calandra.

The New Mexico Film Office says the production employed 200 New Mexico crew members, 90 background/extras, and 60 New Mexico principal actors.

Being back in New Mexico to film, Gordon enjoyed his time.

"It's really the Land of Enchantment," he says. "Being in Santa Fe, there's something magical. Going back to Camel Rock Studios was amazing. We had a couple new faces join the cast. I lived in a one-bedroom apartment that was brand new and got dog sitters for my pet while I was on set. It was a magical time as we created this amazing series."

SEND ME YOUR TIPS: If you know of a movie filming in the state, or are curious about one, email film@ABQjournal.com or follow me on Twitter @agomezART.