Pulse-Pounding Western Triumphs Despite Weak Characters
The Revenant ranks among my all-time favorite films, masterfully intertwining historical accuracy with compelling fiction, filled with iconic characters and gripping action. The film’s somber realism weaves a tightly-knit narrative that captivates audiences. Therefore, I was thrilled to discover that one of the film’s talented writers, Mark L. Smith, is collaborating with acclaimed director Peter Berg (Lone Survivor; Patriots Day) for the new Western miniseries <em>American Primeval</em> on Netflix. Set in the tumultuous mid-19th century, this series promises a raw and unfiltered examination of one of the most chaotic periods in U.S. history, specifically in 1857, echoing the resonant themes of Smith’s earlier work.
The trailers for American Primeval have teased an abundance of thrilling Western action, which is evident from the start of the series. The narrative kicks off with Sara (Betty Gilpin) and her son, Devin (Preston Mota), on a quest to reach a town where her husband awaits. Their journey leads them to a grim trading post operated by Jim Bridger (Shea Whigham), ultimately finding shelter with a Mormon convoy led by Jacob Pratt (Dane DeHaan). While their initial experiences are promising, a brutal attack results in devastating outcomes, setting the tone for this six-episode miniseries.
Explore the Dark and Gritty Storytelling of American Primeval That Delivers Exceptional Action
Discover How the Series’ Unique Atmosphere Elevates Its Storytelling
Among contemporary Western TV shows, American Primeval stands out as one of the darkest, boldly addressing the brutal realities of its historical context. This includes the systematic oppression of Native peoples and the fierce struggles among various groups competing for dominance in this lawless territory. The diverse ensemble cast presents differing viewpoints on the profound consequences of the violent attack, with Sara emerging as one of the few survivors. Jacob seeks answers regarding the chaos, while his wife, Abish (Saura Lightfoot-Leon), plays a pivotal role, as do those responsible for the horrific events.
While some storylines feel underdeveloped, preventing it from reaching the heights of the greatest Westerns, the narrative often serves as a backdrop for the exploration of a poignant moment in history.
This blend of perspectives provides rich depictions of the challenges and horrors faced, ranging from gruesome battles to intimate, intense confrontations. As the story unfolds, characters traverse various landscapes, allowing the varying degrees of darkness to be highlighted throughout the series. However, there were moments when the brutal realism became so overwhelming that I found myself becoming desensitized to the violence and gore. This seems to be a deliberate choice, immersing us so deeply in the harsh environment that we begin to mirror the emotional numbness of the characters.
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Fortunately, the storyline is captivating enough that the heart-wrenching events of American Primeval do not overshadow the series. Instead, the raw depiction of Sara’s harrowing fight for survival, along with the struggles faced by other characters, creates a more immersive experience within the stark and unforgiving landscape. While some plotlines feel slightly underdeveloped, preventing it from being hailed as one of the finest Westerns, the narrative often serves as a framework for delving into a significant historical moment. Unfortunately, this is also marred by one critical shortcoming.
Unforgettable Characters Are Lacking in American Primeval
The Ensemble Cast Lacks Depth and Complexity
As the series progresses, a variety of characters emerge, from the pragmatic Isaac (Taylor Kitsch), who plays a vital role in Sara’s journey, to the relentless Red Feather (Derek Hinkey), seeking vengeance for the suffering inflicted upon his Native community. However, despite some intriguing interactions that develop as the various narratives unfold, the characters themselves fall flat. They embody typical Western archetypes and possess their own arcs, similar to characters found in Yellowstone, Hell on Wheels, or other modern series in the genre, yet they rarely transcend these roles.
This lack of depth detracts from the emotional impact of key story moments, as it becomes challenging to forge a strong connection with any specific character. While Whigham’s portrayal of Jim resonates with me, followed closely by DeHann’s Pratt and Joe Tippett’s Mormon officer James Wolsey, none of them rise above the generic characterizations established upon their introduction. This results in fluctuating levels of emotional investment during characters’ traumatic experiences, which diminishes the overall engagement during quieter moments. American Primeval‘s thrilling sequences help navigate this issue but do not fully mitigate the concern.
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Nonetheless, this Netflix original still presents a valuable entry into the Western genre, particularly for viewers in search of something darker than Yellowstone, with a narrative scope similar to Horizon: An American Saga. While the characters may feel somewhat superficial, the show’s dark storyline and unflinching portrayal of the mid-19th century West prioritize atmosphere and mood. Although it may not resonate with everyone, fans of the tones presented in The Revenant will likely find much to appreciate in American Primeval, despite its occasional shortcomings.
All episodes of American Primeval are currently available for streaming on Netflix.
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