**American Primeval: A Raw, Inconsistent Exploration of America’s Violent History**

*American Primeval* is an action-drama limited series available on Netflix that presents an intriguing idea but yields variable outcomes. Conceived by Mark L. Smith and helmed by Peter Berg, the series boasts a proficient ensemble cast embodying well-known archetypes in a pre-Civil War narrative set in the American West. While it draws upon the rich legacy of Hollywood Westerns, it forsakes any hint of nostalgia, showcasing a harsh and tumultuous portrayal of the period. This execution may hinder its ability to distinguish itself in the saturated post-*Yellowstone* space, filled with various spin-offs. What persists is a somber and unrefined rendition of a cherished genre, conveyed through a unique visual approach.

The series intertwines several subplots, all linked through violent altercations, although they lack a more profound thematic unity. The savagery—both physical and ideological—is incessant, addressing challenges such as white supremacy, religious fanaticism, and the widespread culture of warfare. Although the violence can seem monotonous, the show’s readiness to tackle these topics directly is invigorating, particularly within a genre often steeped in idealized nostalgia. In spite of its narrative flaws, *American Primeval* succeeds in remaining captivating, reinforced by robust performances throughout.

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### What Is *American Primeval* About?

Set during the winter of 1857, *American Primeval* is loosely inspired by actual events and locations, with heightened dramatization. The narrative centers on Sara Rowell (Betty Gilpin), a wealthy mother escaping Philadelphia with her young son Devin (Preston Mota) after being charged with murder. Their goal is Fort Bridger, a fur trading post in Wyoming situated along the Oregon Trail, where they intend to reunite with Sara’s husband. Yet, upon arrival, Sara finds her guide has already left, compelling her to seek alternative means for safe passage.

The fort is enveloped by rising tensions among different factions. The Shoshone Tribe, uprooted by unrelenting strife, fights for survival. A radical Mormon militia, led by the extremist preacher Governor Brigham Young (Kim Coates in a haunting portrayal), patrols surrounding areas. Meanwhile, U.S. Army Captain Edmund Dellinger (Lucas Neff) strives to uphold order, even as his deepening cynicism is apparent in his narrated diary entries.

The series introduces a diverse cast of characters, each linked to the central conflict. Sara seeks assistance from Isaac (Taylor Kitsch), a brooding solitary gunman connected to the Shoshone. She is pursued by bounty hunters led by the merciless Virgil Cutter (Jai Courtney) and his more empathetic apprentice Lucas (Andrew P. Logan). Other narratives include Mormon civilians, such as newlyweds Abish Pratt (Saura Lightfoot-Leon) and Jacob (Dane DeHaan), whose increasingly battered appearances inject moments of dark humor. Shea Whigham also excels as Jim Bridger, the fort’s magnetic founder.

The series features Native characters who, while often relegated to serve the narrative, infuse depth and humanity into the plot. Two Moons (Shawnee Pourier), a young, nonverbal Shoshone girl, accompanies Sara and Devin on their journey, while Red Feather (Derek Hinkey), a rogue Shoshone warrior, assembles a revenge-seeking tribe. These characters enrich the tale, although their story arcs occasionally seem underexplored.

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### A Skeptical Alternative to Classic Westerns

*American Primeval* appears as a darker, more skeptical alternative to Kevin Costner’s *Horizon: An American Saga*, which similarly confronts America’s violent beginnings. However, while Costner’s creation clings to a folkloric narrative of the nation’s history, *American Primeval* dismisses any romanticism. The series even employs rearrangements of Woody Guthrie’s famous folk song “This Land Is Your Land” to create an ironic effect, emphasizing the dismal truths of its backdrop.

Despite its aspirations, the series grapples with its extensive cast and numerous storylines. Characters frequently seem to traverse predefined paths rather than developing organically. For instance, Gilpin and Kitsch deliver commendable performances, yet their characters remain emotionally stagnant throughout. The exception is DeHaan’s Jacob, whose physical ailments provide a rare instance of character evolution.

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### Engaging but Flawed Narrative Structure

In terms of visuals, *American Primeval* takes cues from Alejandro González Iñárritu’s *The Revenant* (also penned by Mark L. Smith), featuring gritty, snow-blanketed landscapes and intense close-ups. The action scenes are electrifying, ranging from chaotic shootouts to brutal hand-to-hand fights, all captured through energetic camerawork. The initial episode, in particular, stands out for its disorienting utilization of rapid cuts.