“American Primeval,” a new Netflix Western, paints a stark and unforgiving picture of Utah in 1857. Described as anything but lighthearted, the series delves into themes of brutality, greed, and violence while stripping away the romanticism often associated with the genre. With a rating of ★★½ out of four, this raw portrayal of the American frontier showcases a world filled with despair and inhumanity.
Created by Pete Berg, known for “Friday Night Lights,” and written by Mark L. Smith, whose previous work includes the acclaimed “The Revenant,” “Primeval” diverges significantly from the portrayals seen in traditional Westerns or more nuanced dramas like HBO’s “Deadwood.” Instead, this narrative unfolds under gray skies and amidst scenes of despair and misery, illustrating a harsher reality where survival often comes at a horrifying price.
The story chiefly follows Sara Rowell, portrayed by Betty Gilpin, as she journeys west with her young son, navigating a chaotic landscape rife with lawlessness after losing her travel group. Seeking to reunite with her husband, Sara’s path intertwines with that of Isaac (Taylor Kitsch), a rugged figure with ties to the Shoshone tribe, along with a runaway girl named Two Moons. As they travel, they become embroiled in a fierce conflict involving Indigenous tribes, U.S. expansion, and the burgeoning Mormon community under Brigham Young.
However, the series struggles to weave its numerous plotlines cohesively, often feeling overstuffed and lengthy. While “Primeval” explores the depths of darkness in human nature, its reliance on graphic violence—depicting acts like rape and scalping—might alienate some viewers, who could find the gore excessive and jarring.
Despite these critiques, the performances are commendable, particularly Gilpin’s portrayal of a mother under duress and DeHaan’s unsettlingly captivating character. The casting delivers strong performances that elevate the otherwise bleak narrative into something occasionally riveting, though it may not satisfy all viewers.
In summary, “American Primeval” aims to present an unvarnished depiction of America’s past, but its execution could draw mixed reactions. While it successfully portrays the harsh realities of life in a tumultuous era, the excessive graphic content may lead some to ponder whether the storytelling has lost its way amid the shock value. Viewers looking for an unflinching take on history may find some value here, albeit at the cost of a more traditional, hopeful Western tale.
This series invites audiences to confront the darker aspects of history, offering a departure from idealized portrayals of the frontier. It underscores the importance of remembering the complex and often painful narratives that have shaped American identity, encouraging viewers to reflect on these legacies as they engage with historical storytelling.