American Primeval premieres January 9 on Netflix.
Netflix’s American Primeval immerses viewers in a raw and brutal portrayal of the American frontier, exploring a chapter of history often overlooked in modern media. Set in Utah, 1857, the six-episode limited series captures the unforgiving harshness of westward expansion, but despite its compelling premise and stunning visual aesthetic, it stumbles in delivering a story with emotional weight.
Directed by Peter Berg and starring Taylor Kitsch, American Primeval thrives in its depiction of the untamed wilderness. The series’ bitter, snow-covered landscapes and tense, blood-soaked shootouts immerse viewers in the gritty and violent reality of life on the frontier. The action set pieces are particularly well-executed, adding tension and stakes to moments that remind us just how precarious survival was in this era, with Mormon gangs led by Brigham Young and Native American tribes battling for territory.
Yet, while the show nails the atmosphere, it struggles to craft characters who truly resonate. The narrative flows awkwardly, weaving between storylines without ever establishing a compelling human connection. Taylor Kitsch’s Isaac, haunted by his past, feels more like a figurehead for frontier resilience than a fully realized character. Similarly, while Dane DeHaan and Betty Gilpin turn in serviceable performances, their roles are neither deep enough nor distinct enough to latch onto emotionally. Kitsch and DeHaan, both bearded and gruff, are nearly unrecognizable, but even this visual transformation can’t mask the lack of character depth.
Where American Primeval succeeds is in capturing the brutality of its world, especially during its scenes of winter survival. The series makes it clear that nature was just as much an antagonist as the human threats Isaac faces. However, as the episodes unfold, the stakes never feel personal enough to sustain engagement. The lack of a human core—a character or relationship to truly root for—makes the series feel hollow, no matter how well it portrays the violent chaos of the frontier.
Ultimately, American Primeval is a mixed bag. It’s an admirable attempt to dive into a fascinating historical setting, and it delivers on gritty realism and action. But without a stronger emotional anchor, it falls short of leaving a lasting impression. For those intrigued by this harsh slice of American history, it’s worth a watch—but don’t expect to feel deeply invested in the journey.
I give American Primeval a B.
TV and City 