“American Primeval,” Netflix’s new Western series, offers a chilling and unforgiving portrayal of Utah in 1857. Described as brutal and savage, the show dives into the darkest aspects of humanity, including greed, violence, and racism, creating a narrative steeped in despair rather than the romanticized vision of the Wild West.
Created by Pete Berg and written by Mark L. Smith, known for “The Revenant,” the series depicts a stark world filled with gray skies, dirty landscapes, and characters marked by their brutal experiences. The story mainly follows Sara Rowell, played by Betty Gilpin, a desperate mother journeying west with her son in search of her husband amid the chaos that surrounds them. As they navigate this lawless landscape, they encounter various characters including the rugged Isaac, with ties to the local Shoshone tribe, and face the perils stemming from conflicts between Indigenous nations, the U.S. government, and the rising power of the Mormon Church.
While the series features strong performances, especially from Gilpin and Taylor Kitsch, it struggles with pacing and often feels bloated with its multitude of storylines. Critics note that the show’s penchant for graphic violence might alienate viewers who have a lower tolerance for such content, as it showcases gruesome acts without hesitation.
Despite its flaws, “American Primeval” serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced during the expansion of America and the complexities of its history. It might not be an easy viewing experience, but it does spark conversations about the darker truths of a period often romanticized in other media.
In summary, while “American Primeval” is ambitious in its goals, its excessive brutality may overshadow its storytelling. For those interested in a raw and unfiltered depiction of historical events, the series might still offer a compelling, albeit challenging, viewing experience. There is hope that such narratives will provoke reflection on the past and inspire more nuanced storytelling in the future.