Thomas Storai 
“American Primeval is a brutal and gripping Western depicting America’s violent history. Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin deliver compelling performances.”
American Primeval is a Western limited series starring Taylor Kitsch, Betty Gilpin, Dane DeHaan and Jai Courtney. The 6-episode series is now streaming on Netflix.
STORY
American Primeval explores the violent history of America to gain control of the American West. Danger is everywhere and everyone wants to kill each other. The Mormons lead by Brigham Young (Kim Coates) want to take control of Utah while the American army wants to keep control of this territory. All the while American Indians (Shoshoni in this series) are trying to survive against oppression from White people. Hatred and fear win over common sense. It’s a fight for control and survival but it’s a fight that brings endless chaos on these lands. People turn into savages and forget their own humanity. It’s a descent into hell that is brutal. The series doesn’t shy away from any of that. This cruelty highlights the differences between all these groups whether it’s cultural or religious and their unwillingness to live together.
The series follows Sara (Betty Gilpin) and her son Devin (Preston Mota) who are thrown into this world trying to survive while also following the Mormons, the American army and the Shoshoni in their conflicts. These two are decent people, it’s their humanity being tested through these lands. It’s captivating to see them interact in this wretched place. You will be rooting for them and you will be on the edge of your seat for them! At its heart, American Primeval is a gripping story of survival during a dark time against a backdrop of senseless conflict. It makes for an in-depth analysis of the human character.
CAST
Furthermore, this series has gathered a talented cast lead by Betty Gilpin and Taylor Kitsch. They both deliver compelling performances and bring nuances to their characters. On top of that, Shea Whigham just feels like the right type of actor to have in this series. Kim Coates turns everyone’s blood to ice as Brigham Young, the Mormon leader. His presence, the way he speaks, it all really feels sinister. But, Shawnee Pourier is also a standout. Without any words, she is able to convey so much.
VISUALS
Moreover, American Primeval showcases the beauty of the American landscape in all its glory. Indeed, there are several shots that will leave you in awe like the wide shots of the snowy mountains. The cinematography uses a pale colour palette with a lighting that is mostly natural. It brings striking visuals. This creates an interesting contrast between the beauty and immensity of this country and the violence that plagues it.
The violence in this series is raw, bloody and brutal. It’s a violent time so it is important to showcase that violence the way it is. It is not for the faint of heart. For example, there is a character about to get scalped, that scene is really bloody. However, when it comes to rape, the series has made the right choice to not go graphic on these but rather make you understand what is going on and instead show the consequences of what happens.
VERDICT
American Primeval is a brutal and gripping Western depicting America’s violent history. Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin deliver compelling performances.
American Primeval is now streaming on Netflix.
Collectables and Anime Editor for Future Of The Force.
Star Wars expert and Japan connoisseur.
