Director Pete Berg teams up with writer Mark L. Smith for his latest Netflix series, “American Primeval.” The six-episode series is set in 1857, characterized by turmoil and suffering. The concepts of innocence and tranquility are increasingly overshadowed by hatred and fear, while peace has become a diminishing aspect of society.
Few individuals demonstrate grace, and even fewer exhibit genuine compassion. Safe havens are virtually nonexistent in these harsh environments, with survival being the singular objective that dominates.
“American Primeval” is a fictionalized dramatization that critically examines the violent intersection of culture, religion, and community as individuals contend with life and death to preserve or assert control over the land.
The six-episode mini-series intricately weaves together multiple storylines, offering viewers a rich narrative experience. At the center of the plot is Sara Rowll, portrayed by Betty Gilpin, who embarks on a perilous journey alongside her partner Devin, played by Preston Morta. Their quest leads them to the enigmatic Isaac, brought to life by Taylor Kitsch, as they travel to the rugged landscapes of the West, hoping to reunite with Sara’s estranged husband.
In addition to Sara and Devin’s story, the series introduces another compelling narrative featuring Jacob Pratt (Dane DeHaan), a dedicated pacifist in a desperate situation. His life takes a dramatic turn when his wife, Abish (played by Saura Lightfoot-Leon), is kidnapped. To save her, Jacob reluctantly allies himself with a gritty bounty-hunting crew led by the formidable Virgil Cutter, portrayed by Jai Courtney.
This alliance forces Jacob to confront his beliefs and navigate a dangerous world of moral ambiguities and high-stakes encounters. Throughout the series, viewers are immersed in the intertwining lives of the characters, each facing their trials in pursuit of love and redemption.
I’ve never considered myself a fan of Westerns; however, as a fan of Peter Berg and the cast, I hit play with an open mind. The first episode hooked me, and I binged the show quickly. The show’s strongest hook is its embrace of a sinister tone, featuring several bedraggled characters colliding in a fraught and desperate world.
To the series’ credit, Isaac is a multilayered figure who embodies the classic traits of an alpha male, and Kitsch delivers this portrayal effectively. Additionally, Betty Gilpin is a delightful Sara character who resists Isaac’s cruelty and makes him feel morally at ease.
While DeHaan has a field day playing beta male Jacob Durant, inventing a nice guy we know will have a mental break. The remainder of the large cast is just as good, and the script gives nearly all these different characters their turn in the sun.
My only real gripe with the show was that, without a few exceptions, there weren’t any memorable Native American characters, and they played a massive part in the narrative. Nevertheless, with gritty performances from its cast and unapologetic violence, “American Primeval” is worth the stream.
Final Grade: B+
All six “American Primeval” episodes are now available on Netflix.
