Last week, in between working and watching the snow pour down outside my basement windows, I decided to give the new Netflix show, American Primeval, a try.
Typically, shows that take place in the 1800s don’t keep my interest that well and I either get bored with it and start something else, or doze off multiple times in each episode.
However, neither of those things happened this time as the new hit series kept my attention from start to finish during the 6-episode run.
The show is directed by Pete Berg and stars Taylor Kitsch (plays Isaac Reed), Betty Gilpin (Sara Rowell), and Kim Coates (Brigham Young), among others. Most episodes are close to an hour long, with the fifth one lasting just 36 minutes.
American Primeval takes viewers on a gripping journey into the harsh and untamed frontier of early America. The series, set in the late 18th century, offers a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the lives of settlers, Native Americans, and outlaws as they navigate the brutal realities of survival in a land where lawlessness reigns supreme.
The series centers around a diverse group of characters, each with their own motivations, strengths, and struggles. From rugged frontiersmen and women seeking a new life, to Native American tribes fighting to protect their lands, the narrative weaves together multiple storylines that highlight the difficulties and conflicts of this tumultuous era.
As the characters’ paths intersect, alliances are formed and broken, and the harshness of the environment tests their endurance and resolve. The show does not shy away from depicting the violence, hardship, and moral ambiguity that characterized the time, making for a gritty and immersive viewing experience.
While engaged to the TV screen, I often found myself wondering if I could have survived back in those days. Well, I came to a decision that I could not. Just when a certain group of people settled on a piece of land where they felt safe, secure, and protected from would be enemies, another group would ride upon them, threaten them with violence, and the group would go on the move again. Land protection is a big part of the story, but survival from attacks of all kinds and spending countless nights outside in freezing conditions also play a huge role.
One of the standout aspects of American Primeval is its commitment to historical accuracy. The series creators have clearly done their homework, incorporating meticulous details into the sets, costumes, and dialogue. This attention to authenticity adds a layer of realism to the show and immerses viewers in the period and it provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and struggles of the era.
The show is very brutal and gory so if there are young children in the household, it may be a good idea to send them to bed before viewing.
There are so many different storylines that intertwine, it is difficult to pick a favorite one to follow, so the best idea is just follow and blend them all together.
I highly recommend American Primeval on Netflix. Watch it and feel an appreciation that we are here today, and not back then.
Rating:
5 out of 5
