The Netflix series American Primeval delves headfirstinto the murky waters of American history, dramatizing the brutal events of the 1850s within the Utah Territory. With six riveting episodes directed by Peter Berg and penned by Mark L. Smith, the show is not just another Western; it’s a sobering reflection on the violent realities faced by settlers during this tumultuous period.
Starring Taylor Kitsch as Isaac, the stoic frontiersman, and Betty Gilpin as Sara Rowell, who flees with her son Devin, the series centers around the notorious Mountain Meadows Massacre. This historical incident, which culminated in the deaths of around 120 individuals, is portrayed with unflinching honesty, capturing the sense of desperation and conflict inherent to the Old West.
According to Phillip Swann, writing for The TV Answer Man, Kitsch delivers perhaps his best performance since his breakout role in Friday Night Lights. Swann notes, "Kitsch is the best he’s been since Friday Night Lights, renewing a sentiment he has star power if only he got the right roles. Well, this role is right on—a powerful performance." His character, Isaac, becomes instrumental to Sara and Devin’s survival as they navigate threats from both the Latter-Day Saints militia and local Native American tribes.
The history behind the Mountain Meadows Massacre isn’t glossed over but rather serves as the stark backdrop against which the personal dramas of the characters play out. The series opens with the Rowell family arriving at Fort Bridger, and within moments, their caravan is attacked, thrusting them directly onto the path of violence and chaos.
American Primeval offers viewers actions and survival over legalistic narratives. The focus remains on the struggle of Sara and her son as they encounter Isaac, who aids them during their harrowing trek through hostile territory. Rather than dwell too long on the massacre’s aftermath or the political nuances between President James Buchanan and Utah Governor Brigham Young, the series builds tension and urgency through the characters’ immediate fight for survival.
This adaptation stands out against the backdrop of contemporary Westerns like Yellowstone, intertwining gripping storytelling with historical authenticity. Critics agree, with one commenting, "The violent struggle is riveting—on par with Yellowstone and its spin-offs." The brutality of the era is palpable, from the high-stakes crossing to the desperation of those caught between two formidable forces, contributing to the broader narrative of colonialism and conflict.
While many series often take creative liberties, ‘American Primeval’ is recognized for not shying away from depicting the authentic horrors of Old West life. The performances, especially from Kitsch and Gilpin, have garnered praise. Gilpin’s character displays fierce tenacity and maternal instinct, making her more than just another damsel in distress. According to movie and television reviews, she embodies resilience against insurmountable odds, drawing viewers deeply to her plight.
Yet, the real-world roots of the story reveal difficult truths about America’s past. The massacre stemmed from violent tensions ignited by political disputes, particularly Governor Young's aggressive stance against settlers passing through Utah. Even as Kitsch’s Isaac works to protect Sara and Devin, the underlying tensions remain woven throughout the plot. This dual lens of personal struggle against societal violence adds significant depth to the series.
Historical figures like Brigham Young, portrayed by Kim Coates, add layers to the narrative by contextualizing events through the experiences of those who lived them, bringing audiences closer to the events leading up to the massacre, even as some historical references are creatively interpreted for dramatic effect.
Overall, American Primeval offers ample food for thought, which viewers might not expect from typical Western fare. Berg’s direction and Smith’s writing work together to transform raw historical events from America’s past—events defined by colonization, violence, and survival—into gripping entertainment, challenging how we view this period of history.
After watching, viewers may find themselves grappling with the realities depicted, making this series not only engaging and entertaining but also thought-provoking. It urges audiences to reflect on the brutal and often unsettling history of colonization and its continuing impacts on the modern world. So, as you settle down to binge-watch, prepare for more than just thrills and action; prepare for history.