Netflix’s American Primeval throws us headfirst into the untamed wilderness of Utah Territory in 1857, a time when the American West was a cauldron of conflict. The series, a visually stunning and meticulously crafted period piece, sets itself apart from the typical romanticized portrayal of the Wild West, opting instead for a raw and visceral depiction of survival and brutality.
American Primeval
The series opens with a stark caption: “Wild and untamed. The United States army, Mormon militia, Native Americans, and pioneers are all locked in a brutal war for survival. Caught in the bloody crossfire are every man, woman, and child who dare to enter this American primeval.” This sets the stage for a narrative that pulls no punches in its exploration of the harsh realities faced by those who dared to venture into the frontier.
While the series boasts a sprawling cast of characters, each grappling with their own demons and desires, the narrative primarily revolves around Sara (Betty Gilpin) and her son Devon (Preston Mota). Fleeing a shadowy past in Philadelphia, they embark on a perilous journey to reunite with Devon’s father in Crook Springs, Utah. Their journey is fraught with danger, as they navigate a landscape teeming with hostile forces, from ruthless bounty hunters to warring factions vying for control of the land.
Along the way, they cross paths with Isaac Reed (Taylor Kitsch), a grizzled frontiersman raised by the Shoshone tribe. Kitsch delivers a captivating performance as the stoic and resourceful Isaac, a man torn between his loyalty to his adoptive tribe and his desire to help Sara and Devon. Isaac’s unique upbringing and intimate knowledge of the land prove invaluable as they navigate the treacherous terrain and evade the numerous threats that lurk around every corner.
American Primeval doesn’t shy away from depicting the violence and brutality that permeated the era. The series is punctuated by intense action sequences, from bloody skirmishes between settlers and Native Americans to the harrowing depiction of the Mountain Meadows Massacre, a dark chapter in American history where a group of settlers, including Mormons, were brutally murdered.
The series also delves into the complex dynamics between the different factions vying for control of the West. The portrayal of the Mormon community, led by Brigham Young, is particularly nuanced, showcasing both their resilience and their capacity for ruthlessness in their quest to establish their own dominion.
One of the most compelling aspects of American Primeval is its exploration of the moral ambiguities that permeated the frontier. There are no clear-cut heroes or villains here, only individuals driven by their own desires and beliefs, often forced to make difficult choices in the face of adversity. The series challenges the romanticized notions of the Wild West, revealing the dark underbelly of Manifest Destiny and the human cost of westward expansion.
While the series excels in its immersive world-building and gritty realism, it occasionally falters in its pacing. The narrative can feel somewhat disjointed at times, as it jumps between the various storylines and characters. Additionally, some viewers may find the unrelenting grimness of the series to be a bit overwhelming.
Despite these minor shortcomings, American Primeval is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the American frontier. It’s a must-watch for fans of historical Westerns who are looking for a more nuanced and unflinching portrayal of the era. The series is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, and a stark reminder of the dark chapters that have shaped American history.
