‘Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn's Treasure’ Netflix Series Review - A Fun Watch

Few real-life stories capture both the thrill of adventure and the chaos of human obsession like the hunt for Forrest Fenn’s treasure. Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn’s Treasure dives deep into one of the most captivating and controversial scavenger hunts of modern times. This docuseries doesn’t just retrace the steps of thousands who chased the elusive prize—it also unpacks the enigmatic personality behind the legend.

Forrest Fenn, an art dealer, author, and self-proclaimed prankster, knew exactly how to command attention. Through an unconventional mix of mystery, wit, and an uncanny ability to fuel people’s desires, he crafted a real-world treasure hunt that turned into an international frenzy. The series highlights how Fenn, through his autobiography The Thrill of the Chase, lured adventure seekers with a cryptic poem supposedly leading to a hidden chest filled with gold and artifacts. While many saw it as an invitation to rediscover nature and history, others viewed it as a well-orchestrated stunt—one that brought both inspiration and tragedy.

One of the most compelling aspects of Gold & Greed is how it presents different perspectives on Fenn. Some call him a genius who gave people a reason to escape their mundane lives, while others see him as an egotistical trickster who set people up for a wild goose chase. The documentary delves into these contrasting viewpoints, showing how Fenn’s stunt led to unexpected consequences, including legal battles, conspiracy theories, and even tragic deaths. While Fenn basked in the fame and controversy, his family was left dealing with the aftermath, some repercussions still lingering today.

The docuseries also captures the social phenomenon sparked by Fenn’s puzzle. It wasn’t just a simple treasure hunt—it became an obsession for many. With the promise of fortune, adventure seekers quit their jobs, drained their savings, and risked their lives to decipher Fenn’s clues. Some participants found themselves entangled in rivalries, lawsuits, and even dangerous encounters with nature. The series does a great job of balancing the excitement of the chase with the darker realities that unfolded over time.

Visually, Gold & Greed takes viewers through breathtaking landscapes, from deep forests to rugged mountain terrains—the very places where treasure hunters searched for years. Expert interviews, archival footage, and first-hand accounts bring the story to life, making it more than just a retelling of events; it’s a gripping reflection on human nature, greed, and the lengths people will go to chase a dream.

Whether you view Forrest Fenn as a genius strategist or a cunning trickster, there’s no denying that his treasure hunt became one of the most intriguing real-life quests of the modern era. What started as an adventurous challenge quickly turned into a worldwide phenomenon, drawing thousands into an obsessive search for riches hidden in the wilderness. The consequences of his cryptic clues and daring promises were far-reaching, leading to personal triumphs, financial ruin, and even tragic losses. Gold & Greed: The Hunt for Fenn’s Treasure is a compelling deep dive into the man, the myth, and the chaos he unleashed, offering a gripping exploration of human ambition, risk, and the fine line between inspiration and deception.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times