“American Primeval” is a Netflix series starring Taylor Kitsch, Betty Gilpin, and Dane DeHaan.
In the ever-expanding universe of streaming content, Netflix brings us “American Primeval”, a six-episode series that plunges viewers into the harsh realities of 1857 Utah. Set against a backdrop of conflict between the U.S. Army, Mormon militia, Native Americans, and settlers, the show paints a stark picture of survival in the American West.
At the heart of the narrative is Sara Rowell and her son, fugitives fleeing a mysterious past and a bounty on their heads. Their journey across a hostile landscape serves as our window into a world where every individual fights tooth and nail to stay alive.
“American Primeval” aligns itself with the modern Western genre, eschewing the romanticized portrayal of cowboys and Indians that dominated Hollywood’s golden age. Instead, it follows in the footsteps of productions like “Unforgiven” (1992) and HBO’s “Deadwood” (2004), offering a more brutal and unvarnished look at frontier life.
The series excels in its visual presentation, with cinematography that captures both the rugged beauty and unforgiving nature of the Utah wilderness. The attention to period detail is commendable, immersing viewers in a world that feels authentically dirty, dangerous, and desperate.
However, while “American Primeval” delivers on realism and production value, it treads familiar ground in terms of storytelling. The formula of a woman and child fleeing across dangerous territory is well-worn, and the series doesn’t offer much innovation in character development or narrative approach. It prioritizes the collective experience of the West over individual character arcs, which may leave some viewers wanting more personal connection to the protagonists.
Violence takes center stage in “American Primeval”, serving as both a narrative driver and a means to underscore the harsh realities of the era. While effective in portraying the brutality of frontier life, this emphasis on violence sometimes feels like a crutch, used to maintain viewer interest in lieu of more nuanced storytelling.
For Western enthusiasts, “American Primeval” offers a competent addition to the genre. It successfully captures the essence of the new Western style that emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, focusing on social and generational portraits rather than individual heroics. However, those looking for a fresh take on the Western genre may find the series treading too closely to paths already well-worn by its predecessors.
In conclusion, “American Primeval” is a solid entry in Netflix’s growing catalog of Western content. It delivers on atmosphere and historical realism but plays it safe in terms of narrative innovation. For viewers craving a gritty, unflinching look at the American frontier, it’s worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to break new ground in the ever-evolving landscape of the Western genre.
Where to Watch “American Primeval”
The Cast
Derek Hinkey
Joe Tippett
Jai Courtney
Shawnee Pourier
Shea Whigham
