American Primeval, a limited series from creator Mark L. Smith and director Peter Berg, presents a bleak portrayal of westward expansion in America, drawing attention to themes of misery and suffering. Set in 1857, the narrative revolves around two intertwining stories. One follows single mother Sara Rowell (played by Betty Gilpin) as she embarks on a treacherous journey from Boston to reunite with her husband at a mining claim. Her journey becomes perilous as she navigates the dangers of the Southern Wyoming outpost of Fort Bridger, overseen by the rugged Jim Bridger (Shea Whigham).
Sara’s desperate attempt to secure safe passage through hostile landscapes includes encounters with the Shoshone tribe and the rising power of the Mormon community, led by self-appointed governor Brigham Young (Kim Coates). Meanwhile, she also becomes entwined with Jacob Pratt (Dane DeHaan) and his fiancée Abish (Saura Lightfoot), whose ambushed wagon train leads to further complications, including the abduction of Abish and the lurking threat of bounty hunters.
Despite its promising premise, American Primeval has been criticized for lacking emotional depth and failing to provide nuanced storytelling. The series adopts a grim and oppressive aesthetic, seemingly prioritizing the grittiness of pioneer life over engaging character development or captivating story arcs. Many viewers may find the exploration of moral complexities unfulfilling, as it seemingly presents a universally bleak view of the era.
While the performances of actors like DeHaan and Whigham stand out, the overall execution leaves much to be desired. Critics have pointed out that despite striving for authenticity, the show ultimately comes across as hollow and uninviting, with excessive focus on brutality that fails to resonate with the audience.
American Primeval is set to stream on Netflix beginning January 9, 2025, but its execution may leave viewers wondering if the visceral themes align with compelling storytelling. The show’s attempt to grapple with historical realities may not offer the catharsis or enlightenment that audiences seek in narratives about human struggle and resilience.
While the series emphasizes the brutality of the American West, it also opens up discussions about the complexity of historical narratives and the depth of character exploration. There’s always room for improvement, and this series may serve as a reminder of the challenges in adapting profound historical themes into visual storytelling.